Mana P3y1s08

Mana: And so it was written: Pokiehlember 3rd, Year 1, Luna's Day. There's an unseasonal rawness in the wind coming in from the east. Ironclads watch over the gate back into Wisp, silently nodding their assent.
Veracruz has his hands behind his back, walking alongside Alexander in relative silence
Theodore: "So… you said the cat you were looking for was the one in that sushi place, right?"
Alexander: "That's what I believe, yes. I have yet to confirm it."
Theodore gives the Ironclad a curious look as they pass through the gate, then nods to Alexander.
Theodore: "Well, only one way to find out yeah?"
Veracruz nods to the ironclad as he makes his way past "Well, only one way to find it out"
Mana: Ring Street. Penguins are overseeing the repair of the road, helping mix up mortar along with the road crew. Helpful signs are posted at the stop: "Tram out of service"
Alexander starts heading for See the Sea.
Mana: Not a long walk. A quiet little sushi shop - you're the only people in righ now, and the chef smiles as you come in - "Table for four?"
Mana: The restaurant cat lounges in the shadow of the sushi machine.
Theodore: "Yup!"
Alexander: "Please."
Vladislav: "I'd prefer if you made it five, actually." A sly grin as a not so likeable face slides into the shop.
Mana: He nods, ducking to the kitchen to wave the waitress off duty. She folds her book shut and brings in a set of menus.
Theodore blinks tilts his head back. "Oh hey, it's that guy."
Alexander: "Afternoon, Vlad."
Aurora: "Good afternoon."
Veracruz waves at Vlad "Oh, hey there"
Mana: (Oh, and you slipped into Gnome at some point to bathe, refilling HP and MP and spending 50 lucre each.)
Vladislav: "Keeping yourself alive, I see. Have fun with the goblins?"
Theodore makes a face. "I'm not sure I'd describe the encounter as fun."
Aurora: "…I'd call it painful."
Vladislav: "The court spoke of the disturbance. I am glad to see their new emissaries were on the scene."
Theodore: "Yeah, Frenzy was trying to rip open the heart."
Veracruz: "Well, not quite, but sort of"
Veracruz: "I wasn't there, sadly"
Vladislav takes a seat and begins to flip through the menu. "Have any of you been here before?"
Alexander: "A few times."
Theodore: "Once."
Veracruz: "Not really"
Vladislav: "I suppose you would have some recommendations then, Alexander? I presume you did intend to at least eat something during your visit here."
Aurora: "A few times with my parents, once with all of the other Knights, though I was still in training back then."
Alexander: "What else would you come to a restaurant for?'
Mana: Regular ol sushi menu. Salmon, tuna, butterfish, eel, some tofu offerings, miso soup both spicy and non, you know. Sushi restaurants.
Aurora: "The salmon sashimi's a favourite of mine."
Alexander: "The machine is neat, but the chef does a better job if your looking for more than sashimi."
Vladislav grins in return. "Right. Of course. People such as yourself are allowed to take leisurely breaks."
Alexander: "It's not like I'm on a contract right now."
Vladislav stares down at the menu with a bored expression on his face. He glances up at the others briefly. "If you were intending to go to the Luna you may wish to do so soon. The gate will likely be closed in a day or two."
Theodore: "What's in Luna?"
Veracruz: "Hrm? Why close that gate?"
Alexander: "I don't think it's a pressing need anymore."
Vladislav: "I would consider the gate being closed a pressing need. For all we know another rift could be over there. It is unexplored territory."
Theodore: "Hmmm."
Aurora: "Well… I've never been there before. Was there anything else we had planned for today?"
Veracruz: "Not really, perhaps we could look at there later"
Alexander: "I have something in mind shortly, but not after that."
Theodore: "Oh! You mean the Services. Hmm, well it didn't seem like they had another way in before, but… maybe. And naw I don't think so, since Al-Aldin said they'd lay low for a bit."
Vladislav: "I would just advise you to return by the days end. There is no knowing if the Emperor's order to close that gate will go through by morning."
Vladislav: "To get locked on the other side would be most unfortunate."
Alexander orders some miso soup, and a small assortment of sushi rolls.
Theodore: "Why's it getting shut?"
Veracruz: "Hrm, it's not like I don't believe that the Luna has another exit point but, yeah as I asked earlier, any real reason why?"
Vladislav: "Because the Emperor declared it to be so." He offers another smile in return with a 'that's that' expression.
Veracruz: "Well, that's a little less than helpful"
Theodore: "That's totally not a why, but okay."
Vladislav: "The lower Shade Gate and Salamander's must remain closed. The why lies with the fact that them being open would set up the mentioned calamities, most likely."
Theodore taps at the table a few times. "Don't see how, but…" He shrugs.
Veracruz: "Well, the problem in Salamander is really more tied to what you guys are doing to keep the gate closed, really"
Veracruz: "Rather than it being closed at all"
Vladislav: "Regardless of the reasons, the fact remains that the gate will be closed shortly."
Veracruz puts his shoulders on the table, and his chin on his hands "Hrm, still wonder if a foray into Luna would be useful right now? Haven't really gone there myself"
Vladislav: "It is rather irritating considering the efforts I went to for the Shade gate to be opened to begin with."
Theodore: "Well, it's not like it can't be opened again, right?"
Vladislav: "The Emperor's word is absolute in Titania. You saw what happened to Ibex, correct?"
Veracruz: "Wasn't really his word"
Theodore: "He *also* told us we could do whatever we needed to do, so."
Aurora orders a miso soup and some salmon sashimi. "Well, that's good to know."
Mana: Alexander and Aurora's soup arrive soon enough.
Vladislav shakes his head. "Do as you will, then."
Veracruz looks at the menu and orders… Just some tuna sashimi "Still, sounds like just more complications"
Theodore: "That is the general plan, yeah."
Vladislav: "So long as you bring the Emperor the Goblin King's head, that is." A grin from behind his menu.
Theodore: "Man though, what was even up with that thing with Ibex? That was pretty messed up. I wouldnt' of told him to go back if I knew what was gunna happen."
Veracruz: "Well, i'm guessing he would wind up getting the death sentence anyway but that was… Kind of terrible"
Vladislav: "I am in agreeance. That man did not deserve paradise. It is why I wished to set up conflict within Salamander itself."
Veracruz: "Paradise isn't quite worth it, though"
Alexander: "Treason is punishable by death. I'm sure he knew the risks going in."
Veracruz: "Geez, don't tell me you wanted to see the place go up in flame too?"
Theodore: "You uh. Realize that would have resulted in a *lot* of people fighting and dying for no reason, right Vlad?"
Veracruz: "Not quite sure he cares" he sounds like he's teasing, though, and not really serious
Alexander: "Everyone deserves paradise."
Vladislav: "We have far too many problems to be dealing with to be worried about a petty turf war and distribution of firearms. If they cannot stand united they are of little use to the crisis at hand."
Veracruz: "Well, getting them to kill eachother isn't really going to make them stand united. Plus if we can't solve one of our problems how are we going to solve the others ones?"
Vladislav: "I wonder, is that a personal opinion Alexander? Or has the realization that we are not invited finally settled in and you've grown bitter?"
Theodore: "You… also realize the implosion of Salamander was one of the apocolypses, right? And that the muskets are coming from a clan of Goddess worshipers who are, apparently, on a holy mission from her? Which might tie into the angels?"
Vladislav: "The issue of Salamander lies with the Goblins trying to free that which lays within the City Heart."
Vladislav: "Eliminating the Goblin King himself will solve everything."
Alexander: "Why else would I be willing to offer them their final peace?"
Veracruz: "No, no"
Veracruz: "That's two distinct problems"
Theodore: "Naw the goblin problem is the gobling thing yo."
Veracruz: "Goblins AND Salamander imploding"
Alexander: "I did not do it because I enjoy it. Perish the thought."
Vladislav raises two fingers and rubs at his temple. "What was your intended business? You stated you had another affair to deal with."
Mana: The waitress returns, laying out platters of sashimi for Veracruz and Aurora, and the set of rolls for Alexander - finely wrapped in nori, the rice soft and the fish glistening and fatty.
Veracruz looks at the fish, tilting his head at it "Hum…" he tastes one
Alexander: "Give my regards to the chef." He looks in thought for a second before asking the waitress, "ma'am, I'm curious, but…how long has that cat been hanging around? He seems comfortable."
Mana: "Oh, that cute little guy?" He is not a little guy. "He's been here since I started work, at least. Why?"
Alexander: "Just curious. He was here the last time I was here in Silvar, but not my previous visit some months ago."
Alexander: "Thought he might just be a stray, but it seems otherwise."
Mana: "Oh, he just kind of moved in."
Theodore tilts his head back to look at the cat.
Alexander: "Smart thing, isn't he? Somehow or another, some of the sushi on the belt just happened to end up his way, last time I was in."
Vladislav glances over his shoulder before growing a very visible scowl. "… It would appear you did not just come here to eat after all."
Alexander just gives Vlad a knowing smirk.
Theodore puts a finger to his lips in Vladislav's direction.
Veracruz raises an eyebrow at Alexander and Vlad, just watching for now. He does know why they're here
Alexander: "You should try being more outgoing. You might not be the last person to know something."
Aurora: "I suppose he couldn't pass up a chance to mix together business and pleasure."
Alexander: "Of course not. The food here is good."
Vladislav chews at his lip before offering a smile in return. "Say what you will. I didn't come here to eat, though."
Alexander: "True. We should be done in a few moment.s"
Alexander starts eating the rolls, having finished the soup before they arrived.
Veracruz continues to eat peacefully, curious what Alexander's plan is right now
Alexander finishes after a bit, then wipes up with the complimentary napkin before leaving a small pile of lucre beside the dish, including a modest tip. "Now, on to business."
Theodore slides out of his seat, moving to stand in front of the door.
Alexander heads over towards where the cat is, sedately.
Veracruz stands up slowly, moving to the other side of the restaurant in relation to where Theo is, just in case
Vladislav gets out of his chair as well. He keeps his distance but is trailing behind Alexander.
Mana: The cat looks up.
Aurora gets out of her seat as well, leaving her own payment with tip beside her empty dishes.
Alexander moves to pet the cat.
Mana: The cat flops over onto its belly, four paws raised above it.
Alexander scratches it under the chin, then.
Mana: Its back, I mean. Flops over onto its back. You know that pose cats take? That's the pose I meant.
Alexander did know what you meant, yes.
Mana: As you move to stroke underneath its chin, Alex, it latches onto your wrist with its hind-claws, just breaking the skin.
Mana: The cat begins to purr.
Vladislav is visibly growing impatient. He stares at Alexander.
Alexander frowns slightly. This might get bothersome, so he just decides to get it over with, unfurling a large sack from his pocket with his other hand before switftly attempting to drag/toss the cat into it, even if it means some claw marks.
Theodore: "Don't worry," Theodore calls to the waitress, "that cat is actually a wanted criminal!"
Mana: Hey Theodore, roll Swindle 50!
Theodore rolled 1d100 and got 1 ( Total: 1 ) for it ain't even a lie!
Vladislav raises a hand to his forehead at Theodore's statement. They might have been able to do that unnoticed had he not spoken up.
Mana: The cat yowls angrily, raking down Alex's arm as he shoves it into the sack.
Mana: Yup, you're bleeding.
Mana: The waitress turns: "It… is?" She turns to the chef.
Mana: "…Well, it was gonna happen someday." "Y…you're serious?"
Veracruz: "Why else would he do that, really?"
Theodore: "Honest! He's a fugative from in dryad."
Mana: "I… see."
Mana: "Well, um, thank you very much for coming!"
Theodore: "And thanks for the food!" Theodore offers both a smile and a nod, then holds the door open for the others.
Veracruz just scratches his head at the whole ordeal, and makes sure his payment is on the table before leaving behind Alexander
Alexander nods to the chef and waitress before departing, bag slung over his shoulder with the arm that isn't bleeding.
Veracruz: "Sure we can take it safely back? Also you sure that cut isn't going to do anything weird, is it, Alex?"
Vladislav waits until they exit the building before shaking his head. "I cannot believe that worked. Are you certain this is the one? I was under the impression the princes could talk."
Theodore: "Psh, like he'd talk to break his cover."
Alexander: "Hey, Cat. Your the Prince, right? I'm bringing you back whether or not you answer," he calls over his shoulder.
Aurora: "You might want to do something about his arm, though."
Vladislav: "I hope for your sake this is the right one. Prince Snake is not one whom you want to waste their time."
Mana: "…I am the Prince," the bag replies, after some hesitation.
Alexander: "I had a feeling…turns out it was justified."
Theodore pulls out a small strip of cloth and wraps it around Alexander's arm as they walk. "We get stuff done, yeah."
Veracruz: "Don't quite think Prince Snake could do anything other than make us waste a day?"
Veracruz: "That said, it'd good to keep your promises"
Mana: "…You can unhand me, you know."
Vladislav: "Going to tell us why you ran away from Dryad?"
Mana: "I fought for a republic, not a dictatorship. And the other princes were willing to make me die for my principles. Meow."
Theodore pats the sack consolingly.
Veracruz: "Hrm… I don't know much about what is going on in Dryad. Just that we kinda had to get you"
Vladislav offers a knowing look to Alexander. He at least should know what is about to happen.
Veracruz: "But didn't you, like, have people to help you out over there?"
Alexander gives a slight shrug to Vladislav. Dryad's a jungle, it's survival of the fittest, anyway.
Mana: "Some fled. Some died. Some live on under beastly thumbs even meow."
Theodore: "S'what happens when you pick fights you can't win, yeah."
Veracruz: "Well, that's no reason to stop fighting, though. I hope they're keeping up"
Veracruz: "Not like whatever we're doing isn't going to end up helping you guys in the end, I don't think"
Alexander continues making his way towards the Wisp-Dryad gate
Mana: "What, being the running dogs of Prince Snake?"
Veracruz: "Nah, solving problems everywhere"
Vladislav: "I prefer to think of it as a business proposition."
Alexander: "My life's on the line here, you'd have to make a very convincing arguement."
Veracruz: "Prince Snake is just a guy that told us an important thing, so we kinda had to pay for it"
Aurora: "It's only him that is, we're just tagging along right now."
Mana: "With another's life?"
Mana: The Dryad gate. The lifts are running, of course.
Alexander: "Kind of my business."
Alexander: "Nothing personal."
Alexander: "I hear Paradise is nice this time of year."
Theodore makes a bit fo a face.
Veracruz: "Well, he only told us to bring you back" he makes a face at Alexander "That place's really shady, though"
Theodore: "Maybe he doesn't want to kill you? I mean, he wanted you back alive."
Alexander: "Of course it is. It's covered in trees."
Veracruz: "Well… Can't argue with that"
Vladislav: "His exact words were that he wanted to know where he was, actually. If I were you I would demand a freebie for offering extra, Alexander."
Alexander: "You raise a good point, Vlad."
Alexander: "I thought about just telling him, but confirming it would probably have made you dash off, wouldn't it, O Prince Cat?"
Mana: "Of course. I'm not stupid."
Alexander: "Hence the current situation. I still haven't heard a counter-offer, and we're getting closer with every moment that passes."
Mana: "And what, exactly, is Prince Snake offering you?"
Vladislav: "I am beginning to understand why the Emperor does not trust his family."
Theodore tilts his head towards Vlad.
Alexander: "Most of us aren't this bad, to be honest."
Alexander: "But you can never be too careful."
Veracruz: "Right now, our two friends here are going to die if we don't bring you back. That is not a big problem in particular if you have a good enough offer"
Veracruz: "That, however, lie on them to judge what is good enough"
Vladislav: "You misinterpret. I have no place in this affair."
Alexander: "Just one. Vladislav has to find some way to deal with Prince Lion."
Veracruz: "Oh, right, you didn't quite tell me"
Veracruz: "We can go deal with him after this if you wanna"
Vladislav: "I made my own terms with Prince Snake. Lion has been harassing Dryad district and overstepping his set borders. It would benefit everyone if he were taken care of."
Veracruz: "Or, well, guess sometime after a short exploratory trip to the Luna? Depends on your urgency"
Alexander: "Vlad isn't on a set schedule like I am."
Vladislav: "I am sure Dryad Palace will be of interest to some of you."
Mana: "Do you think he's going to give you some sort of antidote?"
Theodore: "…Another temple for a spirit? Yeah."
Alexander: "If he knows what's good for him."
Alexander: "It's not like I can't find some way to turn the poison back on him if I really want to."
Vladislav: "If he decides to betray me I am not too worried. His poison cannot kill me. Alexander on the other hand…"
Veracruz: "Pretty sure that poison is kind of irrelevant in it's own way"
Mana: "Why would he let a useful tool out from under his thumb? No, he'll just ask another favor."
Veracruz: "He only gets one favor, though"
Alexander: "Only as long as the association continues to be beneficial."
Alexander: "To both parties."
Vladislav: "Well… Prince Cat. If it comes down to that that's why we brought more than the two of us."
Mana: "If you kill him after he eats me instead of before, I'll be quite upset."
Theodore motions for the sack.
Alexander: "What?"
Theodore: "Well, I mean. If he's worried about getting eaten I can hold him. It's not like the snake guy has anything on me."
Vladislav: "Unfortunately he has far too much information. Killing him at this time is not the best solution. It could take us months to find what we'd need in Exmillia."
Veracruz: "Hrm, well"
Veracruz: "One way or another the deal was just knowing where you were so if he wants to do anything else he'll need a second deal"
Mana: Over the lifts, into Dryad.
Mana: The leaves of the forests are turning - brilliant golds and oranges, mottled, deep violets, intermingled with swathes of green.
Mana: The village of Tacaroon - the morning markets are in sway.
Mana: Prince Cat shifts in his sack. "…I missed the scent of this forest."
Veracruz: "It does smells kinda nice, rather fresh"
Mana: Into Exmillia, then?
Alexander does head that way, yes.
Theodore places his hand son his head as he continues to trail close behind Alex.
Mana: Down into Exmillia - down its staircases, beneath the earth, to the walkways over underground waterways where, under the watch of the snakemen, the villagers toil away. Their picks ring out, echoing. Their skin is frail, emaciated.
Mana: Prince Cat fumes. "This is what he betrayed me to build, is it?"
Veracruz looks around "What is he even trying to accomplish, actually?"
Theodore tilts his head towards the sack. "I thought you betrayed them?"
Mana: "They betrayed the rebellion, meow."
Theodore: "…Hmm…"
Mana: One of the guards slithers up - violet-scaled, holding a scimitar. He eyes Vladislav, and Alexander, then the rest. "Returning to report to Prince Ssnake?"
Veracruz lets Alexander speak
Alexander simply nods and replies, "yes."
Mana: "Come with me." He says, heading along walkways, past the thatched huts of the villagers, deeper and deeper, into one of the archives of Exmillia.
Veracruz will follow, although he remains ready for something unexpected to happen
Mana: A tremendous cavern: Platforms on pillars rising from the flooded pools far, far below, surrounded by steel bookshelves hanging on chains overhead.
Mana: Coiled around the outside of the spiral is the majestic Prince Snake, white-scaled, with long, elegant, white eyebrows, covered in sparkling silver bejeweled chains.
Mana: The rattle on his tail is intricately carved, with golden rings wrapped between each section.
Mana: "You return with more." Prince Snake says. "It's good to see you, once more."
Vladislav offers a slight bow in return. "And to you as well."
Veracruz raises an eyebrow looking at the snake, he does looks nice, although it confuses him somewhat
Mana: "And, Alexander…"
Mana: "What could possibly be thrashing around inside that Prince Cat-sized sack?"
Alexander offers a slight bow as well. "I believe I have found your stray."
Mana: "Interesting, interesting. Let him out now, will you?"
Alexander raises an eyebrow slightly before setting the bag down gently, and then stepping back quickly as he drops the lip of the sack.
Veracruz has his hands behind his back, watching intently
Mana: Prince Cat leaps out of the bag, hackles raised. He turns to the exit - barred by a pair of Snake's servitors, blades at the ready.
Mana: Snake turns his head. "I imagine you must've known it was going to end this way."
Theodore crouches down beside Prince Cat, glancing betwen him and Prince Snake curiously.
Mana: Prince Cat shoots a fiery glare, holding himself up with regal countenance despite his weight. "No."
Mana: "No I didn't."
Mana: "…I thought there was no way that the beasts of the forest could be worse than rule beneath the Emperor…"
Mana: "…And we went and showed them all, didn't we? We went and we were worse."
Mana: "More human than human."
Mana: Prince Snake laughs.
Veracruz: "I'm guessing it's what happens when you try to be something you're not, you kinda go overboard, while not changing too much"
Vladislav glances at Alexander, lightly coughing into his hand.
Mana: "Something I'm not?" The Snake responds. "I'm a Prince. Within my demesne, I am sovereign. The knowledge of the world that was carelessly abandoned becomes gems, riches and powers in my clutches."
Mana: "This foolish cat…"
Mana: "…Forgot how to be anything. Except, it seems, a tub of lard."
Alexander: "Speaking of this cat, I did do more than simply find him."
Veracruz: "Well, I won't question too much, we're kind of in your demesne as you said"
Mana: "So you did. Was he troublesome?"
Alexander: "Not very. But I could have just told you where he was and left him there."
Mana: "And he likely would have escaped, wouldn't he…? Very thoughtful of you."
Alexander: "Yes. And one good favour deserves another."
Mana: "Certainly. From the archives, or the treasury?"
Alexander: "I believe something from the treasury would do nicely."
Mana: He smiles, sliding his tail out from beneath him, tapping along cases held in shelves up above, before wrapping it around one.
Mana: He pulls it down to the platform level, letting the iron case pop open before you - it's full of ancient coins, to the total of 4000 lucre.
Theodore reaches out to pet Prince Cat.
Mana: Prince Cat is frozen ramrod still.
Mana: In rage, really.
Theodore: "Hey, snake dude. What're you gunna do with him anyway?"
Mana: Prince Snake smiles.
Alexander fills up the sack with his ill-gotten gains.
Mana: "Eat him whole. Did you want to watch?"
Theodore: "Hmm."
Theodore: "Nope." Theodore picks up Prince Cat, then hurls him over the heads and past the guards in one swift motion.
Veracruz: "That's actually kind of terrible, definitely a big lack of manners"
Alexander frowns. He should have known Theodore might do that. Or Aurora. Or Veracruz, really.
Mana: Really, nothing about this was a good idea.
Veracruz immediately rushes towards where Theo threw the friggen cat. You don't stage an escape like that! He'll have to intercept and keep him safe
Mana: Prince Cat soars through the sky, leaping atop the head of one of the guards, rending him with clawed paws as he leaps away for [200]!
Theodore: "I mean really. If anything, it sounds like he should be eating you. I'm doing YOU a favor."
Mana: With terrible agility, he flits out sight. He's…
Mana: He's really good at running away, actually.
Mana: Prince Snake sighs.
Mana: "You realize I'm going to kill all of you now, yes?"
Veracruz just- Kind of halts after a few steps, figured the cat needed aid, perhaps not
Alexander echoes the sigh.
Veracruz turns around to Prince Snake "Why? We've still the favor of dealing with Prince Lion to pay back"
Veracruz: "Can't say we don't keep our promises, we did tell you where he was, even bring here. No doubht Prince Lion's a lot worse guy than this one, so we might do a bit extra too, who knows"
Alexander: "Honestly don't think that helps much right now."
Theodore: "Well, I had a notion. But the prospect of accidently sending a second person to be executed for stupid reasons in one day wasn't sitting well with me."
Vladislav rubs at his forehead. "That'd be kind of a shame. I even got an empire sanctioned summons to the Emperor to lure Prince Lion out of hiding. If it helps I didn't know he was going to do that."
Alexander: "Neither did I. Although I should have."
Mana: Prince Snake nods to Vladislav. "That would be a shame, yes."
Mana: "To see the look on his stupid face. Hm."
Vladislav: "If you want to just duke it out right here though instead of stabbing each other in the back a few weeks down the road I guess we can do that too. I'd rather we both get a lot of the deal both ways before we decide who wins, yeah?"
Alexander: "Honestly, I can track down the Cat any time, now that I'm on the trail."
Mana: "Indeed. There is rather much for both of us to gain."
Mana: "Still, I am gravely offended."
Veracruz: "Sincerely, so am I. You certainly avoided the nasty details without real good reason it seems"
Theodore: "If it's any consolation I'm *pretty* sure I offended the Emperor more times than I offended you."
Mana: Prince Snake points his tail at Theodore.
Mana: "I'll only kill that one, then. The rest may go."
Mana: "I hope this satisfies?"
Theodore pulls out his musket and points it right back at Prince Snake.
Theodore: "Y'know what this is?"
Mana: "A staff you don't know how to fight properly with?"
Veracruz headscratches "He does, thing hurts like hell I promise"
Theodore: "It's a holy weapon. I'm gifted with divine protection."
Vladislav chews at his lip before pulling out his book. It seems this would be a good way to get a pre-emptive strike.
Mana: "…Angels. I should have known."
Theodore: "So I mean… is this really something you wanna start?"
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 50] HP: 400/400, MP: 400/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (6)
Theodore: "'Cause it's not something you're gunna win long term."
Mana: "If I'm being hounded by an immortal rat, I've already lost." He smiles, wide-fanged.
Mana: "I may as well eat my fill."
Theodore smiles.
Veracruz sighs
Theodore: "I'm not going to feel bad about smiting you, like I did Frenzy."
Veracruz: "You're every last bit as bad as those thugs back home, really"
Alexander just goes off to stand by the side, tapping his feet impatiently.
Theodore: "Bbbbbuuuuttttt."
Theodore: "It's still a stupid fight that doesn't need to happen yet." Theodore fires the musket towards the snake, letting off as much smoke and gun powder as muskets are want to do, then dashes out of the cavern.
Mana: The way is barred - roll Running 50!
Veracruz scratches behind his head "Hrm, well. Good luck there" he says, unsure of a better parting phrase, and runs after Theo
Theodore skids to a stop, slamming the butt of the 4rifle into one of the guards near the entrance. "…Psych! You're totally dead."
Mana: "Ugh!" The guard's thrown back. Prince Snake rattles his tail frantically, and the guards rush to cover him, scrambling to a slither.
Mana: (And with every shake of the rattle, there's a painful twist in your gut, Alex.)
Mana: (And, you know, about half a painful twist in your gut, Vladislav.)
Mana: Battle order: Alexander [F]:0 Snakeman B [F]:1 Theodore [B]:2 Veracruz [F]:2 Aurora [F]:2 Snakeman A [F]:2 Vladislav [F]:3 Prince Snake [B]:3
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [==========]
Mana: Status for Snakeman A [F] : [=== ]
Mana: Status for Snakeman B [F] : [==========]
Mana: Alexander!
Alexander Waits impatiently. [15D]
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 50] HP: 400/400, MP: 400/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (5)
Mana: The Servitor slithers out and slashes into Theodore. [Fearful Strike]
Mana rolled 1d100 and got 92 ( Total: 92 ) for C80
Mana: The blade slams into the stone, and the snakeman takes two arms to pull it free!
Mana: Theodore! Veracruz! Aurora!
Theodore jumps back and to the side, grinning slightly.
Mana: Battle order: Theodore [B]:0 Veracruz [F]:0 Aurora [F]:0 Snakeman A [F]:0 Vladislav [F]:1 Prince Snake [B]:1 Alexander [F]:13 Snakeman B [F]:51
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [==========]
Mana: Status for Snakeman A [F] : [=== ]
Mana: Status for Snakeman B [F] : [==========]
Veracruz doesn't breaks his run, he continues running and jumps on the wall, running upwards it until he looks at where is up for him, which is now towards the snakeman A, he jumps off, flicking both of his crystalline knives at it before landing. He takes the moment he's staggered to rush at it for a full body slam, recovering his blades [Attack, 32D]
Veracruz rolled 1d100 and got 17 ( Total: 17 )
Mana: Blood drips down the bullet wound in Prince Snake's throat. How much damage did that deal?
Theodore rolled d12+96 and got 12 ( Total: 108.0 ) for belateded
[OOC] Mana: 108], how appropriate for a divine weapon. Veracruz, that's a hit!
Veracruz rolled 1d8+48 and got 5 ( Total: 53 ) for Undine, Physical, Melee, 10 CoS of Deshell(4)
Also rolled 1d100 and got 75 [Total: 75]
[OOC] Sugarlips: Grand Total: 128
Theodore then pulls out a satch of powder and pelt, refillign the musket. [22D]
Theodore rolled 1d100 and got 83 ( Total: 83 ) for 95!
Mana: It's good to go! Aurora!
Mana: The blades slash into the Snakeman for [53]!
Mana: Battle order: Aurora [F]:0 Snakeman A [F]:0 Vladislav [F]:1 Prince Snake [B]:1 Alexander [F]:13 Theodore [B]:22 Veracruz [F]:32 Snakeman B [F]:51
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [==========]
Mana: Status for Snakeman A [F] : [== ]
Mana: Status for Snakeman B [F] : [==========]
Aurora shakes her head at the insanity of it all, but draws her sword nonetheless, pointing it at Prince Snake and outlining him in light. "If it was anyone but you, Theo…" [Corona, 34D]
[OOC] Aurora: 6, 40/120
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 420/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105
Theodore: "That makes me feel all kinds of warm and fuzzy inside, Aurora." He shoots her a wide smile.
Mana: The light shines around Prince Snake - he narrows his eyes, his pupils thin. "…Insolent knight!"
Mana: The wounded servitor, suffering from a bevy of catscratches, swings his blade at Aurora, and an arc of black energy rips out. [Death Blade]
Mana rolled 1d100 and got 79 ( Total: 79 ) for C60
Aurora: "I'm sorry, but I'm not going to let you just eat him to settle your wrath."
Mana: But her shining blade slashes it in twain!
Mana: Battle order: Vladislav [F]:0 Prince Snake [B]:0 Alexander [F]:12 Theodore [B]:21 Veracruz [F]:31 Aurora [F]:33 Snakeman B [F]:50 Snakeman A [F]:53
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [==========] Corona [40](6)
Mana: Status for Snakeman A [F] : [== ]
Mana: Status for Snakeman B [F] : [==========]
Mana: Vladislav!
Vladislav glances once between Prince Snake and Alexander before flipping a page on his book. "Alexander, a battle report if you'd please." With barely a glance he smashes the spine of his reading material into the wounded servitor. [Attack - 31D]
Vladislav rolled 1d100 and got 71 ( Total: 71 )
Vladislav rolled 1d8+54 and got 1 ( Total: 55.0 )
[OOC] Mana: 55]! It explodes into a clatter of bones!
Mana: Prince Snake lashes forward, latching onto Aurora and slamming her this way and that! [Vice Bite]x2
Mana rolled 2d100 and got 56, 36 ( Total: 92 ) for C90
Mana rolled 1d12+140 and got 5 ( Total: 145.0 ) for 60 to Deprotect (3)
Also rolled 1d100 and got 89 [Total: 89 (High), Avg: 89.00]
Total: 234.0, Avg: 47.00
Mana rolled 1d12+140 and got 6 ( Total: 146.0 ) for 60 to Deprotect (3)
Also rolled 1d100 and got 55 [Total: 55 (High), Avg: 55.00]
Total: 201.0, Avg: 30.50
Mana: Inflicting 145 physical damage - SLAM! and 146 physical damage - SLAM! Before he tosses he free. He runs his tongue over his fangs - Deprotect (3)!
Mana: Battle order: Alexander [F]:0 Theodore [B]:9 Vladislav [F]:19 Veracruz [F]:19 Aurora [F]:21 Snakeman B [F]:38 Prince Snake [B]:41
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [==========] Corona [40](6)
Mana: Status for Snakeman B [F] : [==========]
Mana: Alexander!
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 169/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (3)
Alexander studies Prince Snake while he waits. [Analyze, 20D]
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 50] HP: 400/400, MP: 400/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (4)
Mana: Prince Snake, Level 8 Tough Boss Beast. HP2028/2136. MP712/712. Aligned to Dryad and Shade. Fears Luna and Wisp. A terrible monster with vicious fangs and powerful magic. Though the secret of his poison is well known, watch out when he [Rampage]s.
Mana: Battle order: Theodore [B]:0 Vladislav [F]:10 Veracruz [F]:10 Alexander [F]:11 Aurora [F]:12 Snakeman B [F]:29 Prince Snake [B]:32
Mana: Theodore!
Theodore spins the musket around once, before holding it straight behind his back as his necklace glows. [CT15]
Mana: Vladislav! Veracruz!
Alexander: "Hmmm. Figure a guy like him, being a Prince in Dryad, would be a bit less Shade-y, but I guess there's all kinds." Sounds like he's talking to himself.
Alexander: "Wouldn't want to see him when he goes on a Rampage."
Mana: Battle order: Vladislav [F]:0 Veracruz [F]:0 Alexander [F]:1 Aurora [F]:2 Theodore [B]:5 Snakeman B [F]:19 Prince Snake [B]:22
Theodore: "Well he did plot rebellion and then subvert it…"
Veracruz pulls out a small bottle of rose-smelling oil and simply walks over to Aurora, rubbing some of it on her elbows, even over the armor "He's a snake, snakes are Shade" and a little bit behind her hears [Elbow Grease, 42D]
Mana: Vlad!
Vladislav flips his book to a new page, glancing over at the others. "Take down the Snakeman." [CT 15]
Mana: Alexander!
Alexander non-chalantely takes a wire and throws it around a case handle on the other side of the room, tying it off behind him. [Ambush Line, 20D]
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 50] HP: 400/400, MP: 355/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (3)
Mana: Battle order: Aurora [F]:0 Theodore [B]:3 Vladislav [F]:13 Snakeman B [F]:17 Alexander [F]:19 Prince Snake [B]:20 Veracruz [F]:40
Mana: Prince Snake scrutinizes Alexander out of the corner of his eye.
Aurora brings her sword up in a protective stance. [Steelguard, 44D]
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 169/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (2)
Mana: Battle order: Theodore [B]:0 Vladislav [F]:10 Snakeman B [F]:14 Alexander [F]:16 Prince Snake [B]:17 Veracruz [F]:37 Aurora [F]:41
Mana: Theodore!
Theodore swings his musket around, pointing it in Aurora's direction as healing sparkles surround her. [Pinch Heal] [32D]
Theodore rolled d12+120,150% and got 3 ( Total: 184.5 )
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 353/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (2)
Mana: Vladislav!
Vladislav gestures to Snakeman B, a ball of water manifesting in front of him. With a swing of his arm it flies out and impacts into Snakeman B. [Aqua Surge - 20D]
Vladislav rolled 2d12*1.25+120*1.25 and got 11, 12 ( Total: 178.75 ) for Tuning W: Salamander
Mana: Explodes for [178]!
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 360/360, MP: 380/390, SoS: 90 - W: Salamander (1)
Mana: Snakeman B slithers out to deliver a [Fearful Slash] to Aurora!
Mana rolled 1d100 and got 12 ( Total: 12 )
Mana rolled 1d12*1.25+90*1.25 and got 4 ( Total: 117.5 )
Mana: Dealing 117 physical damage! Ambush line snaps - the snakeman rolls over its side.
Alexander rolled d10+80 and got 10 ( Total: 90.0 ) for Delays by 10
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 295/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (2)
[OOC] Mana: 90!
Mana: The Snakeman glares at Aurora. [It'll counter if you don't target it with your next action.]
Mana: Battle order: Alexander [F]:2 Prince Snake [B]:3 Vladislav [F]:16 Theodore [B]:18 Veracruz [F]:23 Aurora [F]:27 Snakeman B [F]:62
Mana: Alexander!
Alexander tosses another Ambush Line across the hallway, still tapping his foot. The hand movement, though deft, is hard to follow. Sadly, Prince Snake's eyesight seems to be fairly sharp. [20D]
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 50] HP: 400/400, MP: 310/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (2)
Mana: Prince Snake carefully slithers over the Ambush Line, picking Aurora up in his jaws and sinking his fangs deep into her. Needle-like, they barely leave a mark, but there's a squirming feeling beneath the skin as he tosses her away. [Not something that triggers Ambush Line] [Have a Poison Mark, Aurora!]
Mana: Returning to the other side of the line, the Prince smiles, slithers this way, and that, and his shadow separates from him, rising up, taking on volume, curving this way, that way, filling out to his height.
Mana: It's… [Double!]
Mana: Battle order: Vladislav [F]:0 Theodore [B]:2 Alexander [F]:6 Veracruz [F]:7 Aurora [F]:11 Prince Snake [B]:18 Snakeman B [F]:46
[OOC] Vladislav: HP check on mobs
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [==========] Corona [40](4) Double(U)
Mana: Status for Snakeman B [F] : [= ]
Vladislav moves in and slams Snakeman B with his book. [Attack - 31D]
Vladislav rolled 1d100 and got 39 ( Total: 39 )
Mana: Hit!
Vladislav rolled d8+54 and got 6 ( Total: 60.0 )
[OOC] Mana: 60]! he explodes into a clatter of bones!
Mana: Theodore!
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 360/360, MP: 380/390, SoS: 90 - W: Salamander (0),Stack(1) (U)
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 360/360, MP: 380/390, SoS: 90 - Stack(1) (U)
Theodore holds his hands out into the air as energy gathers around him once again. [CT15]
Mana: Battle order: Alexander [F]:0 Veracruz [F]:1 Aurora [F]:5 Theodore [B]:11 Prince Snake [B]:12 Vladislav [F]:25
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [==========] Corona [40](4) Double(U)
Mana: Alexander!
Alexander lobs a Salve to Aurora. [40D]
Alexander rolled d6+48 and got 3 ( Total: 51.0 ) for +25% to next Recovery effect
Mana: Veracruz!
Veracruz holds both of his knives with his left hand, pulling out a paintbrush with his left hand hand and writing on both blades "Fierce" and "Burning" . He raises them both over his head and puts them against eachother, then suddenly spreads his arms wide, sliding the crystalline blades against eachother causing them to erupt in flames [Flame Sheathe, 42D]
Mana: Singing crystal cries out to the air as flames shroud the daggers!
Mana: Aurora!
[OOC] Veracruz: [SHP: 50] HP: 375/375, MP: 315/375, SoS: 93 - Flame Sheath [36] (U)
Mana: Battle order: Aurora [F]:0 Theodore [B]:6 Prince Snake [B]:7 Vladislav [F]:20 Alexander [F]:35 Veracruz [F]:38
Veracruz: "Fire and water!"
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 295/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (2),+25% healing (N)
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 358/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (2),+25% healing (N)
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 50] HP: 400/400, MP: 310/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (1)
Aurora had let out a(n un)surprisingly girlish shriek at being picked up and bitten, not feeling so well after picking herself up… and decides to return the favour, light sheathing her sword once more as she slashes at the Prince. [Burst Dash, 44D]
Aurora rolled 1d100 and got 19 ( Total: 19 ) for 90
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 358/420, MP: 315/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (1),+25% healing (N)
Mana: Slices through! Hits the weakness!
Aurora rolled 1d10+80,150 and got 6 ( Total: 129.0 )
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 358/420, MP: 270/360, SoS: 105 - Deprotect (0),+25% healing (N)
[OOC] Mana: 129]! Blood spills out from the slice as a rainbow trail gently fades from the air. Theodore!
Theodore gestures towards Aurora as warm energy swells up and wraps around her momentarily. [Restore Heart] [27D]
Theodore rolled d10+100,125% and got 8 ( Total: 135.0 ) for +HP, cures poison and amnesia not that it matters
Theodore: "…Hmmm… ah, yeah your poison is too strong and different, huh?"
Mana: Prince Snake draws himself up, his hood flaring. It's almost a primp. "Naturally."
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 420/420, MP: 270/360, SoS: 105
Mana: Prince Snake pauses in thought, inhaling deeply… [Black Fog in CT20]
Mana: Battle order: Vladislav [F]:0 Prince Snake [B]:7 Theodore [B]:13 Alexander [F]:15 Veracruz [F]:18 Aurora [F]:24
Mana: Vladislav!
Vladislav begins to chant another spell! [CT 15]
Mana: Prince Snake breathes a plume of dark mist at the front row! [Black Fog]
Mana rolled 1d12+132 and got 1 ( Total: 133.0 ) for C60 to Poison (3) Vlad Alex Cruz Rora
Also rolled 4d100 and got 94, 11, 86, 64 [Total: 255 (High), Avg: 63.75]
Total: 388.0, Avg: 51.20
Mana: Dealing 133 magical Shade damage! Alexander's Poisoned (3)! Corona flares - cuts by -120 against non-Auroras.
Mana: Hits the weakness on Vladislav and Cruz though, for 199 total.
[OOC] Veracruz: HP: 362/375, MP: 315/375, SoS: 93 - Flame Sheath [36] (U)
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 37] HP: 400/400, MP: 310/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (1),Poison (3)
[OOC] Veracruz: [SHP: 37] HP: 375/375, MP: 315/375, SoS: 93 - Flame Sheath [36] (U)
Alexander reels from the Fog.
[OOC] Veracruz: THERE
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 281/360, MP: 380/390, SoS: 90 - Stack(1) (U)
Mana: Prince Snake lashes out and bites into Aurora - his double heading straight for Vladislav!
Veracruz flips backwards from the fog, using his movements to scatter it "That is nasty"
Mana rolled 2d100 and got 75, 68 ( Total: 143 ) for C90
Mana rolled d8+84 and got 5 ( Total: 89.0 )
Mana: Hitting both for 89 physical. Corona cuts by -40 to Vlad.
Vladislav smiles in return. "Going to snap your tail yet?"
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 258/420, MP: 270/360, SoS: 105
Mana: Ambush line snaps!
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 232/360, MP: 380/390, SoS: 90 - Stack(1) (U)
Alexander rolled d10+80 and got 6 ( Total: 86.0 ) for Delays by 10
Mana: Battle order: Theodore [B]:0 Alexander [F]:2 Vladislav [F]:2 Veracruz [F]:5 Aurora [F]:11 Prince Snake [B]:35
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [======== ] Corona [40](4) Double(U)
Mana: Theodore!
Theodore holds his mucket out in front of himself with both hands as energy kicks up aorund him. [CT20]
Mana: Battle order: Alexander [F]:0 Vladislav [F]:0 Veracruz [F]:3 Aurora [F]:9 Theodore [B]:18 Prince Snake [B]:33
Alexander takes up his own musket in his hands. [Change Weapon, 20D]
Mana: Vladislav!
Vladislav slams his book shut having found what he was looking for. With one final word the area begins to shake, pieces of the ceiling falling from above on to Prince Snake. [Rockfall - 20D, Weak: Jinn]
Vladislav rolled 2d12*1.25+120*1.25 and got 8, 10 ( Total: 172.5 )
Mana: Prince Snake grits his fangs! [152]!
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 232/360, MP: 320/390, SoS: 90 - W: Jinn (1)
Mana: Battle order: Veracruz [F]:0 Aurora [F]:6 Theodore [B]:15 Alexander [F]:17 Vladislav [F]:17 Prince Snake [B]:30
Mana: Veracruz!
Veracruz takes a deep breath, takes a running start aiming towards the Prince Snake, he initiates with a simply punch at his muzzle, waiting for his reaction. Once the beast moves to either block or dodge he immediately jumps over him and at his back, lowering his body as he runs down down the beast's body, letting the knives cut. He jumps aside, trying to drag the snake's attention
Veracruz away for a moment [Blindside, 39D]
Veracruz rolled 1d100 and got 11 ( Total: 11 ) for 80 CoS
Mana: Slash! It's a hit!
Veracruz waits until the prince is snapping at him agian before dodging under it's maw, he spreads his arms wide and delivers a cross slash right underneath it's maw, leaving a burning cross in the air for a moment [Power Strike]
Mana: Prince Snake twists away, his mighty tail flicking in pain and smashing into a hanging shelf.
Veracruz rolled 1d8+48,150 and got 1 ( Total: 73.5 ) for +36 Piercing Salamander, Physical, Melee, Undine, Deshell(10)
Also rolled 1d100 and got 83 [Total: 83]
[OOC] Sugarlips: Grand Total: 156.5
Alexander flinches as the tail flicks.
[OOC] Mana: 73]! [36]!
Mana: Battle order: Aurora [F]:0 Theodore [B]:9 Alexander [F]:11 Vladislav [F]:11 Prince Snake [B]:24 Veracruz [F]:33
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [======= ] Corona [40](3) Double(U)
Mana: Aurora!
Aurora flinches as well, taking the time to catch her breath and stand ready. [Steelguard, 44D]
Mana: Theodore!
Theodore spins his musket around, sending healing energy through the entire party. [Cure Light] [32D]
Theodore rolled d8+80 and got 1 ( Total: 81 )
Mana: Battle order: Alexander [F]:0 Vladislav [F]:0 Prince Snake [B]:13 Veracruz [F]:22 Theodore [B]:30 Aurora [F]:33
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 339/420, MP: 270/360, SoS: 105
Mana: Alexander! Vladislav!
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 313/360, MP: 320/390, SoS: 90 - W: Jinn (1)
Alexander sets up another Ambush Line, this time not being so inconspicuous about it. [20D]
[OOC] Alexander: [SHP: 37] HP: 320/400, MP: 265/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (0),Poison (2)
Vladislav considers for a moment before chanting, this time lightning arcing around him. [Gathering Storm - CT 30]
Mana: Prince Snake snaps his tail. There's a twisting pain in the skin, a squirming like water flowing inside your fingertips. [Fatal Venom - 400 magical Dryad damage to Aurora, Alexander, and Vladislav.]
[OOC] Alexander: HP: 0/400, MP: 265/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (0),Poison (2)
Alexander drops dead.
Theodore: "Well, that's one way to cure poison."
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 123/420, MP: 270/360, SoS: 105
Mana: Prince Snake's eyes glint. [Rampage!!]
Lightning arcs back from Vlad, hitting Prince Snake for [60] Jinn damage. He grins in response. "That's all you got?"
Mana: "No. No it isn't."
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 113/360, MP: 320/390, SoS: 90 - W: Jinn (1)
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 113/360, MP: 320/390, SoS: 90
Aurora staggers, but holds her ground. "That… hurt."
Mana: He surges forth to snap Vladislav in his jaws, his double rushing for Aurora! [Vice Bite]
Mana rolled 2d100 and got 46, 84 ( Total: 130 )
Mana rolled 1d12*1.5+140*1.5 and got 3 ( Total: 214.5 )
Mana rolled 2d100 and got 91, 91 ( Total: 182 )
Mana: Hitting both for 214 physical damage!
Mana: Ambush line snaps!
Alexander rolled d10+80 and got 8 ( Total: 88.0 ) for Delays by 10
[OOC] Aurora: Does that have greater than 80 CoS?
[OOC] Mana: Yup, CoS90.
[OOC] Aurora: Kay!
[OOC] Aurora: HP: 46/420, MP: 270/360, SoS: 105
Mana: Corona saves you [-40] from that, though, Vlad.
Vladislav has more lightning shoot out for [60] Jinn damage.
Vladislav does go down though.
[OOC] Vladislav: HP: 0/360, MP: 320/390, SoS: 90
Mana: Battle order: Veracruz [F]:0 Vladislav [F]:8 Theodore [B]:8 Aurora [F]:11 Alexander [F]:38 Prince Snake [B]:54
Mana: Status for Prince Snake [B] : [======= ] Corona [40](2) Double(U)
Mana: Prince Snake cackles. [Rampage!]
Mana: The poison's run its course. [It doesn't stick around after burning you.]
Veracruz looks at the Prince Snake "You know you remind me of Xsaieta like this, you sure you don't have some cat in you?"
Theodore: "Wh…"
Theodore: "Of course he doesn't."
Theodore: "That's why he's mad!"
Mana: "I'd like some."
Veracruz then runs in to attack- Immediately shift direction in a 180, snagging Vladislav by the collar "Heave!"
Aurora blinks… then can't help but giggle despite the seriousness of the situation.
Veracruz then runs directly towards the exit with him on his shoulder [Escape, CT10]
Mana: Got it! Theodore!
Mana: Battle order: Theodore [B]:0 Veracruz [F]:2 Aurora [F]:3 Alexander [F]:30 Vladislav [F]:40 Prince Snake [B]:46
Theodore: "Lemme know if the bullet hole keeps burning, yeah? But we're reached the qouta of deaths for today, so we'll be going now."
Theodore snaps a salute to the snake, hefts Alexander up, then beats feet.
Mana: Prince Snake laughs. "You've learned some fear, I see."
Theodore: "Not as much as you have!"
Mana: "Perhaps. We'll deal more carefully in the future, both of us, won't we?"
Mana: Aurora, leaving too?
Veracruz: "Hope the next deal doesn't requires any deaths, that's what causes fights to happen, y'know!"
Theodore: "Haha, maybe you will but I probably won't. Careful's not really my style."
Aurora nods, sheathing her sword and dipping a curtsey to the white snake before turning to follow her comrades. "Just remember that trying to eat one of us next time means facing all of us."
Mana: He tilts his head, lickign his lips. "And we both know how that went, don't we…?"
Mana: The pure hearts escape!
Theodore shouts over his shoulder, "It went with a bullet hole in your throat and me unharmed! Later!"
[OOC] Mana: Got 160 EXP. Got 32 Lucre, unless you're Alexander, in which case you got 4032 Lucre. Way to go, Alex!
[OOC] Mana: Got 6 AP.
Theodore waits until they're out of the caves and a decent ways away before slowing to a stop and setting Alexander down, while motioning for Cruz to do the same.
Mana: A bird sings in the boughs of the branches overhead.
Mana: Snake's servitors gave up their pursuit, it seems.
Veracruz finally takes a deep breath once they've got some distance "That was touch-and-go for a moment there…" he sets down Vlad "We really shouldn't be making deals with bad guys, y'know"
Theodore lets out a breath, pulls his staff out and gesture to Alexander with it. A moment later a huge column of brilliant white light slams into him.
Veracruz: "Unless we plan on beating them up anyway, and thus are ready for it"
Theodore rolled d12+120 and got 12 ( Total: 132.0 ) for Revive
[OOC] Alexander: HP: 132/400, MP: 265/400, SoS: 100 - Wait For It (6)
Theodore then repeats the spell for Vladislav, summoning another column of light fomr the sky. [Light Pillar]
Alexander gets up, roughly. "Ugh. How did it go?"
Aurora: "…If we go there next time, it's with more people."
Veracruz waits until Vladislav is up "That's what happens when you make deals with people we have to punch later"
Theodore: "About half way, then he killed you and Vlad at once and it was time to pack it up."
Veracruz: "And, y'know, set up the bomb on yourselfs"
Vladislav: "Given how we aren't in the archive of knowledge… I would say poorly." He scowls as he gets up.
Theodore: "On the bright side, that flushed the venom from your systems."
Veracruz: "Nah, it went up pretty well actually"
Veracruz: "Now you won't try to make a bad deal with him again"
Veracruz: "So hey, net gain"
Vladislav: "The poison was not a concern of mine. His bite however… I may refrain from staying in the front row next time."
Alexander: "I really should have spent some time making an antidote first. Or at least a anti-venom from it."
Veracruz: "Hrm… There's that, would have been a nice preparation"
Veracruz: "Also yeah you, kind of get beaten up in there"
Alexander: "Haven't had much time today, unfortunately."
Veracruz: "It's alright"
Veracruz: "Well, at least now we know how powerful those beasts are"
Veracruz: "And how ready we gotta be to deal with Prince Lion. I think you actually wanted that dealt with, Vlad?"
Theodore tilts his head towards Vlad for a moment, then lets out a bretah before offering him a hand. "Thanks for the assist though. Wasn't really expecting it, but it was appreciated."
Vladislav: "We clearly aren't prepared just yet. The Princes of Dryad are fearsome creatures and not to be taken lightly. Prince Cat nearly took out that one guard on his way out, if you didn't notice."
Veracruz: "I did, he's pretty powerful for… Someone who got bagged so easily"
Veracruz: "Poor thing, i'm fairly sure he kind of lost his will to fight. Hopefully he regains it"
Vladislav glances at Theodore simply staring at his hand in return. "I did what needed to be done for Dryad district. Snake and Lion are tyrants."
Veracruz: "Think we definitely need to know a bit more and, well, you know, not come in with a small group that came pre-prepared to get hit for more than our single healer can deal with"
Veracruz sighs, scratching behind his head "Wonder if we could find a gem with some healing magic for me? Not really my style but we sorta need it"
Vladislav: "Were I anywhere but Dryad I can usually sustain myself. The Princes know of the old tricks however so I cannot steal the light from their eyes."
Theodore pauses for a moment, then leans forward to grab Vladislav's hand, then shakes it. "Well regardless, I still appreciate it dude."
Alexander: "I'm not sure if I should hit you, Theo, or thank you, but you did prevent a mistake. After dealing with Princes Snake and Lion, however, I should probably stay out of picture when you talk to Prince Cat again."
Vladislav blinks a few times furrowing his brow slightly at Theodore. He coughs. "Regardless, Dryad Palace and the princes should be addressed another day. We are not quite prepared yet and Erinee is doing me a favour by going against the Emperor's orders and keeping the Lower Shade Gate open to regulate mana flow. I plan to investigate the Luna District, alone if need be."
Veracruz: "We'll go along, no need to go by yourself"
Aurora: "It's not as if we have much else planned today."
Veracruz: "Not like I quite know to do about this whole mess most of the time so having someone with a plan helps"
Theodore tilts his head towards Alexander for a moment, "Well, both is an option if you feel they're both valid." He then turns back to Vlad as he drops his hand. "Yeah, nope. You made friends today. We're gunna help you with whatever dumb thing you're doing."
Alexander: "I'll just do neither. On the other hand, I'm okay with getting as far away from Dryad right now as possible. Though I should stop for some foodstuffs on the way."
Veracruz: "Ahaha, we could use to carry some more candy around"
Theodore: "Yeah I'm flat out of mana too. Got one of those import walnuts, but they're pricey so if I can get go juice cheaper if it's not in portable form…"
Vladislav scoffs slightly. "I am not one to refuse help. Remember that Joch outlined that moon matter will rise up and many foes who wish to take Titania from us will pour out. The area calls for investigation."
Theodore: "Well."
Veracruz: "Hrm… What is moon matter?"
Veracruz: "Just so i'm not thinking of the wrong stuff"
Theodore: "That actually ment the moon kingdom, not the luna district which… I think…. they said were different things? They're pissed off because the princess is being held hostage though. And we convinced her to tell them to stand town for now, but."
Aurora: "Also could use a lot of healing myself…."
Theodore: "We can totally go try and get a better look from their ground level though."
Veracruz: "There's that, pricess told them to hang back for now, although I think she expects to do something by herself, she was indicating a divide in the court"
Veracruz: "But yeah, it'll be a worthwhile trip"
Vladislav: "What of our wounds?"
Veracruz: "Well, we gotta find out a place to stop for some medicine, I don't quite know any, sadly"
Theodore: "There's a town filled with people in your uh… club? One of them could probably help patch us up, yeah?"
Vladislav: "Hrm… I may be able to ask for help in Tacaroon on the way back. It certainly would beat stealing the light from the eyes of a rabite."
Theodore nods.
Vladislav chews at his lip before leaving Prince Snake's domain, back towards Tacaroon.
Theodore double checks to make sure everyone can walk just fine, then trails after Vladislav.
Veracruz nods and follows Vlad
Mana: Tacaroon. The markets are quiet today. Squashes are in season, though. A herd of sheep must have been sheared lately - there's a few racks of woolen garments for sale.
Vladislav decides to roll by the Dye Painters first and see if they have anything that can help. The pub would likely be closed this early anyways.
Theodore: "Oh hey, this place looks a lot different in the daylight."
Mana: Dropping by their nearest meeting place, then?
Veracruz: "It does"
[OOC] Vladislav: Yup!
Mana: …At the top of a nearby hill, in a stone cottage, long-thought abandoned, the Dye Painters - or the Ink Painters, or however you call them - meet.
Mana: Do the secret knock for us, Vladislav.
Vladislav makes his way up to the cottage, glancing around at the others before knocking a few times in sequence, a pause, another two knocks, and then a kick against the door.
Mana: A sing-song, familiar voice from within: "Come iiiiii~iiiiiiin, Vladislav!"
Theodore raises an eyebrow which doesn't exist.
Vladislav glances back at the others. "… you saw nothing here today. Understood?"
Theodore: "Didn't see what?"
Vladislav nods in return to Theodore before opening the door.
Veracruz heads up, just looks at Vladislav for a moment, he can keep a secret alright
Alexander: "I might be blind for the little while. Consequence of the poison, I'm sure."
Theodore: "(Although I *am* curious who else would be so friendly with Vlad…)"
Mana: The scent of jasmine tea is inside the cottage - it's warm, and homey. Two middle-aged, bearded men are in the living room, going over sheets upon sheets of notes - Dimen and Ajor, Vlad, you've met them -
Mana: But you're met at the door by Cheya - a slight woman, looking just a little bit through you, her face gaunt, her black hair long and tangled. She's wrapped a thick quilt around her, over her dayclothes, and she's cradling a cup of tea.
Mana: "Oh, I wasn't expecting him to have friends! Grievously wounded friends. Come in, come in, I just put a pot of tea on, just put a pot of tea on."
Mana: "We'd slaughter a fatted calf for you, but we're fresh out."
Theodore: "I know, right? Thanks for havin' us."
Mana: "Dimen! Ajor! Our favorite wizard's back!"
Veracruz: "Ah, thank you. thereis no need, we're thankful enough as-is"
Vladislav glances up at those present. "Prince Snake has overstepped his bounds and attacked us. Were it not for these folks we'd likely be dead."
Mana: ( "Not MY favorite wizard." "Admittedly, my favorite wizard." "Pretty good wizard." "Harumph." )
Theodore laughs.
Mana: Cheya prods Vladislav in the cheek. "Did he, now? We'll seat them in the cellar, I think, since the higher-ups are taking up our good table, aren't you, now?"
Aurora blinks, but can't help but smile at the camaraderie in here.
Mana: "Really." She says, walking past them, poking Dimen in the shoulder. "You've been up all night."
Vladislav stares at Cheya for a moment before offering a small smile in return. "That would be sufficient."
Mana: "Lot of commands to send out," He says, in response. "I know, I know." Cheya heads downstairs.
Vladislav then glances over his shoulder. "You're invited in, come."
Veracruz blinks, this place is surprisingly warm for people that hang out with Vlad. He comes in, since he was invited!
Theodore follows Vlad and Cheya down stairs, giving the guye sat the table a wave as he descends.
Aurora follows as well, cursteying to the two as the pass.
Mana: "Least she's polite." Dimen comments.
Alexander gives a polite bow before following as well.
Alexander may have winced a little as he did so, but the effect is almost the same.
Mana: The cellar is mostly occupied by moss and mushrooms. Stools surround a table dimly lit by gaslamp - Cheya lights it from a match before rifling through a cabinet in the back.
Mana: There's some elaborate map of the city on the back wall - some sketches of Shade passages, too.
Mana: Pinned up shipping manifests, some things circled in red, others in blue.
Mana: "Now, then, Mr. Vladislav. Are your gorgeous, bleeding friends here in confidence, or are we going to be dancing about them with our secrets all day?"
Mana: Cheya nods seriously as she stands beside one of the stools. She still has to get tea, so she's not sitting down just yet.
Vladislav takes a seat on one of the stools. "I admit I'm a bit curious as to whom you think gorgeous. I'll have to have a stern talking with them. They can be trusted."
Theodore leans toward Cheya, "(We can't see anything around this building!)
Theodore: "(Especially not that awesome map.)"
Veracruz: "Clearly she refers to Aurora, Vlad. It is not hard to guess"
Mana: She pulls at her quilt. "So sweet of you! But you only drop in when you need something, so what do you need?"
Mana: "Proofreading on that book of yours?"
Aurora smiles softly. "If she is, I thank her for it."
Alexander: "I'm hurt, Cruz."
Mana: "I can tell!"
Theodore: "I get it!"
Alexander rolls his eyes.
Theodore: "What? It was funny."
Veracruz chuckles
Vladislav: "We need a way to get some cheap supplies. We're fairly beat up and cannot afford to rest for the day."
Mana: "…Yeah, I can tell. I'll be right back."
Mana: She nods to Vladislav, setting a hand on his shoulder as she walks past. The stairs creak as she heads up them to the cottage above.
Theodore: "She seems nice!"
Veracruz: "People are kinda nice here, yeah, surprising"
Vladislav: "Surprisingly?"
Vladislav glowers slightly at Veracruz.
Veracruz: "Well, I don't know, expected them to a lot more… I don't know!"
Veracruz: "Like you I guess"
Vladislav: "Hard working? I think they do a fine job. Some of them haven't slept for days."
Alexander laughs. And then coughs.
Theodore: "Bristely, maybe."
Veracruz: "Ah- That I don't doubt"
Veracruz: "Their dedication is a thing one can feel, actually"
Mana: After a bit, Cheya returns - teapot, tower of cups, and a satchel under her arm. She sort of awkwardly sets things down on the table, first.
Mana: (She is still wearing a quilt. It's clumsy!)
Theodore moves to help with the cups!
Veracruz would help but Theo was faster and too much help is just awkward
Mana: She untowers the cups, pouring tea for everyone, in turn. Seating herself last, dragging the satchel closer to her side.
Mana: "Ahem. Enjoy!"
Theodore: "I will, thanks!" And he does.
Vladislav: "Everyone has been doing well over the last few days, I take it?"
Veracruz: "Thank you kindly"
Alexander: "Thank you kindly." He takes a sip.
Mana: "Well, we're worried about the ice coming in. It's about a whole month out of season, and the ice-pick men are refusing to deal with it."
Aurora takes her cup, happy to leisurely sip at it after the hecticness of early.
Mana: "Blaming the Emperor for reneging on some deal or another, which, well, knowing him? Probably did."
Mana: "And there he goes and cuts another mana flow off. I almost think he's doing it on purpose."
Vladislav: "That would be terrible, wouldn't it?"
Veracruz: "He definitely has SOME sort of plan"
Veracruz: "That much I can be certain of"
Veracruz: "On the other hand, i'm also very sure he thinks he's doing what is best? At least that is the impression I got off of him" he sips gently, because hot tea is dangerous
Vladislav: "Best is a subjective term."
Mana: "He's a power-mad fool. If he's not cackling, that just means he ain't enjoying it."
Mana: "So…"
Mana: "…Salamander report, good news, the gangs have stopped fighting."
Veracruz: "Yeah, we saw to that, sort of. Still about to blow up, I think, though"
Veracruz: "Good to know they gave it some pause"
Mana: "Maybe worse than you thought. Uh, what's her name, Yesketi… she's in talks with the Vipers."
Mana: "Vladislav, what IS she?"
Veracruz waits for what Vladislav has to say
Vladislav smiles in return. "She's dangerous. Be wary of her."
Mana: She leans over and flicks Vladislav's ear. "Yeah, yeah, way ahead of you."
Mana: "She's anti-Imperial, but I don't trust anyone that can move that many weapons in that fast…"
Vladislav: "No good is to come of it in the future. Honestly I would nip the problems bud before it grows, but there are more pressing matters to attend to."
Veracruz: "She appears to be a priestess of the goddess and… Speculation on our side is that she is from the Moon Empire"
Mana: "Speaking of the Moon Empire…"
Vladislav: "Have you been keeping tabs on our Lunar Bride?"
Mana: "A little. She's keeping her chin up. Local Moon cells have been placated. But, uh, Vlad…"
Mana: "…Like, we try to know all the Moon spies around here, right?"
Theodore: "Those weapons don't miss, by the by. And yeah she's a Priestess of the Goddess." Belatedly, due to tea sipping.
Vladislav: "Has another cropped up?"
Mana: "…And apparently one of theirs just appeared out of nowhere. Not a spy, like… a dignitary. Sailed in across the Luna, and I didn't even know the Moon Empire could…"
Mana: "Eh, you know, get down there. Like, that we had a monopoly on gates…?"
Mana: "She's flashing a lot of money around. Holding a Last Auction. Which means… homework, as in, she did hers."
Vladislav: "They didn't go through any of the known roads?"
Vladislav: "It would seem our map needs more work."
Mana: "Yeah. Got some of her soldiers to talk."
Mana: "Apparently, most of them are staying with her ship. Know you always wanted to take a trip down there, so…"
Mana: Cheya frowns.
Veracruz: "We… Were planning on doing so at some point"
Mana: "The local moonies are just as confused as we are. You want me to introduce you to a cell? Could help smooth things over."
Vladislav: "What's the ships name and make. We'll need someone on the inside as a guide. Outsiders are easily noticable if they are bumbling about."
Theodore: "Wouldn't being noticed make it easier to talk to 'em and see what's up, though?"
Mana: "Big, flat, iron, sixteen rows of guns. Converted sandship, looks like. It's the I.S Swimming Toad."
Mana: "Which… worrisome name."
Mana: "Not even the moonies have any insiders on this one. As I said, it's…"
Theodore tilts his head. "Don't like toads?"
Mana: "Well, it's like the captain just decided to sail in without telling anyone, on no orders, for who knows what reason."
Mana: "Toads are just like frogs."
Mana: "And frogs, you know… cause problems."
Theodore: "Huh, why do they fall 'em toads if they're the same as frogs, though?"
Mana: "They're bumpier…?" She opens the satchel, producing a small silver plate, and two bottles.
Vladislav takes a long sip of his tea. "I am curious how they got into Titania at all. I will definitely pay them a visit."
Theodore rocks his head from side to side, then nods.
Mana: "Anyway. Closest contact is probably, uh, the Waxwork Crew, down in Gnome, Mudslide Street. Tell em I said hi, we've got enough symbols painted down there to find em."
Mana: "Unless you wanna hustle in blind, Vladislav."
Mana: She uncaps one bottle - there's an overpowering floral smell inside it, and it shines like pink mercury as she pours it out into the dish.
Mana: "Anyway, you needed emergency medicine, right?"
Vladislav: "It's what I do best."
Vladislav: "Gnome is on the way to Shade however. It isn't much of a detour."
Theodore: "(Especially if it helps with mana deficencies!)"
Vladislav glances at the plate and scrunches up his face slightly before nodding. This isn't going to taste good i sit.
Mana: She picks up the other bottle, shakes it roughly, unplugs it with a pop, and pours it out into the dish.
Mana: …Billowing black smoke fills the room. Your nose clogs with pleghm. Your ears with wax. You get that weird mouthful of spit that's a little too thick and too sickly sweet. A brief feeling of nausea, of the world distorting - vertigo, standing over a precipice.
Mana: Cheya coughs as all of this fades.
[OOC] Mana: HP and MP are full.
Mana: …The smell's gonna cling to you all day, though.
Theodore: "W - wwwwwwwooooooah!"
Theodore: "Oh man and it just keeps going! This is wild!"
Vladislav furrows his brow at Theodore. "… he seems to be enjoying it."
Alexander: "At least that's one of us."
Theodore: "New experiances are awesome!"
Aurora hacks and coughs, shaking her head. "They say the best medicine tastes awful… did you have to expand on that?"
Veracruz blinks, raising an eyebrow as high has it will go "That… Was special"
Alexander: "But, seriously, thank you for all your help."
Mana: "Hey, at least you didn't have to drink it."
Veracruz: "N-not sure wether to say thanks or not, but I guess I should, so thanks"
Alexander: "I shudder to think what that would taste like."
Theodore: "Oh, do we owe you anything or were Veracruz's boyish charms and Alexander's finely aged manliness enough?"
Vladislav glances at the others. "If you can get someone out here to fix the insulation that would be lovely."
Aurora: "…point taken. And thank you kindly."
Veracruz: "Hrm! I'm not quite a craftsman myself but hey, I might just know who might know somebody"
Mana: "Would be nice." Cheya shrugs.
Theodore digs around in his pockets for a bit, then hands her over 50 lucre. Same as a bath, really!
Mana: "But, well, you know. Just make that one count. We don't have too much of that stuff. Long live the people of the-"
Mana: "Well, thanks for the donation to the cause!"
Theodore smiles.
Alexander isn't going to be outdone here. Not when he started this mess. He reaches into the sack and pulls out 100 lucre to place on the table.
Vladislav: "Hopefully that should cover everything."
Veracruz headscratches
Mana: "…Well, no, not really. But it'll come in handy."
Veracruz: "Well, we're still in debt, but i'm fairly sure that Vladislav will ask for it"
Vladislav: "Thank you again, Cheya. I'll see if I can glean more information from the Waxwork Crew."
Mana: "Oh, I trust he can!"
Mana: She presses a finger to her lips. "Well, have fun out there! Kill what you eat and eat what you kill, and so on."
Vladislav: "Send out word that Prince Cat is still alive, by the way. We spoke with him today."
Vladislav presses off from the stool, offering a nod to everyone.
Mana: "That's good. Give him a pet for me if you see him."
Theodore: "Yeah, thanks a ton, and take care!"
Veracruz: "We certainly will provided he doesn't feel like taking our hands off"
Mana: "Vlad, you should really just rob a bank sometime."
Vladislav: "I plan to. I just need to learn a few more tricks."
Vladislav: "There's a neat little spell that takes you and a target to another location. Great way to make a getaway."
Mana: "That's… a good trick."
Vladislav offers a knowing grin in return before heading back up the stairs and out the door.
Mana: And so - maybe, after a few more goodbyes - it was written.

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