The Kingdom Of Medias Res (rpg)

[Ayumi]

*A Young Page moves towards the inner sancturary of the Princess' Audience Chambers. Passing the guards he genuflects once... twice... and thrice as he approaches within audible distance of the Princess who is a veiled figure amongst her veiled ladies and some of her favorite courtiers. Kneeling in adoring humility he waits permission to tell his news*

*The Princess, a slender figure on a richly furnished throne smiles from beneath her veil and gives a graceful motion of her gloved hand* Speak my Gentle Page... Give your message to all who gather here.

*The Page stands and straightening his shoulders speaks in a voice that is as mellow as a well aged honey wine, and as well tuned to richness as a master crafted instrument.*Your Grace, the Princess Klea of Medias Res, May it be our sorrow to offer condolences on your Royal and Faultless Parents' Passing... yet May it be our jubilation to behold you now as the Queen Klea of Medias Res and be part of the escort to Her Majesty's Coronation Ceremony.

*Rising the soon to be Queen speaks* I see that your schooling with the Toubadours of the south has not been Wasted on thee Young Jean Louis.. I am thus impressed by your winged words and look forward to seeing you as a future Knight of the Royal Order.... Come then Noble youth... and escort myself and those gathered here to the proclaimation.

*Jean Louis takes her outstretched hand marveling on how he could forget how tiny the Princess was in stature and built. He a Tall youth fairly towered over her... The Page leads the procession through the sumptious palace halls of Marble and gold to the spacious open balcony that overlooks the Kingdom. Relinquishing the hand of the Princess to the Majordomo, he bows and steps to the side.*

*The Majordomo Smiles and after helping the Princess step up onto the platform so that the Halo-projector can cast out her image throughout the kingdom he gives his Speech to the awaiting Coutiers and Masses* Hail Lords, Ladies and esteemed Gentlefolk of Medias Res...

*Klea only half listens to the speech as her hands figit with the flower shaped jewel that dangles from a silk ribbon around her delicate wrist... Her Parent's demise and now her coronation seemed sureal to her and thinking of them forced her to allow a mask of impassivity to slide over her features not allowing her to cry as the Majordomo reached to remove the veil which identified her as a Princess of Medias Res. Stopping him she removes the veil herself in a small defiance to tradition much to the shocked admiration of the witnesses of the event. And there before all she surveyed and all who survey her , she became Queen.*

[Behindthesmile]

Drion sat on the 3rd floor window sill scanning the crowd, the room that he’s staying in overlooked the plaza. The huge square was filled with people and more are still coming in. “Choosing this inn was a bit over my budget but it does have a commanding view of the surroundings� he thought. The Capital City was bustling with life more so since it’s the coronation of the new queen. Just scanning through he can already pick out several pickpockets already plying their trade “very rusty �he thought, a shout of “Thief!� made his head turn towards the center of the plaza, the young man didn’t have a chance he was in a densely packed area and had no where to run, within minutes they had him. Drion just shook his head, “I guess they’re going for quantity over quality these days�. Being a member of the guild was through a selection process; pickpockets were trainees and are chosen through potential. The most successful and prominent thieves of Medeas Res are part of the guild. “It seems that the pocket master just recruited a bunch of riffraff just for this occasion, this would be addressed in the meeting most likely, anyways that’s for later tonight�.

He looked at the throng of merchants at the edge of the square shouting their wares and smiles; everyone is taking advantage of this event. Then the trumpets sounded and everyone looked up at the palace balcony attentively. Surrounded by halo-projectors every one stared in silence waiting for the main event. The Majordomo made his speech and was about to take the veil when the new queen did it herself. The people were silent then a tumultuous roar sounded through the crowd. “Interesting� thought Drion smiling……

[SGI]

The bottom floor of the popoular inn, being a tavern, was rather crowded due to the corenation (I hope this information is right). Kain leaned forward against the table he was sitting at, the wood creaking at the shifting of weight. His dark blue lips sighing rather heavily, he hated this assignment, looking at the gentle burning of the candles he thought to himself. "Why did I take up such a risky and unethical assignment?".

Mabye it was the combination of alcahol, and the promise of a large payout, the sort of payout one could retire on these days. He remembers the two who hired him, and what they said. "We cannot allow a petulant child to rule us." reaching beneath his cloak, he felt the cold steel of his dagger.

[Princess Mononoke]

Shadarii stood in the middle of the huge crowd being pushed and shoved every which way. She stared up at the looming castle. Why am I here she thought. Why dont I turn around, leave this place, and go back to my home? No, she thought... there was a feeling.. that forced me here.. yet she knew not what it was. All these people around her made her very insecure. Yet all she could do is stand there. She didnt know where to go or what to do. All she did know was that she was about to see the beautiful new queen. But for what reason? she asked herself. All of the sudden the crown around her stopped shoving and pushing. All was quiet. Then the princess was there... above her. How lovely she is, thought Shadarii.

[Keshadei]

She had been leaning back against the wall of the building in the back of the plaza. Not because she didn't care to get a good look at the preceedings. No, hardly that. Being against this wall kept her from being in the midst of that large crowd who were all currenty bumping and pushing into each other, the mass seemingly having a mind of its own. She glanced up, looking at all the faces in the various windows above her and around the plaza. Chuckling to herself, she turns back to the balcony where all await the new princess to be shown, "This little one is going to have much on her hands." She looks away from the balcony, pushing off the wall to stretch her limbs abit. After slapping away the pickpocket behind her, her attentions are pulled back at the sound of the screams and claps of the crowd. Keshadei once again leans against the wall, her arms crossed. Out of the corner of her eye, she again notices the young pickpocket who apparently isn't very adept at stealth. Looking the child straight in the eyes, she lifts her lip slightly in a slight snarl. As the light flashed off her fangs, she hisses at him almost inaudibly. She chuckles again at the amusement as the scoundrel runs off and she may return her attentions once again to the speech she had missed. She watches the Majordomo reach for the lady's viel, then with a satisfied smile, Keshadei watches the young woman remove it herself. Nodding with the same satisfaction, she pushes off the wall and makes her way into a tavern nearby, "Much, indeed."

[Lord Sastraka Hunnett]

He watches the Coronation with interest, soon, he would make himself known to this court in This new realm he finds himself in.
He smooths out his long Silver hair, mindful not to lower his hood. He continues to watch in silence.

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud moved into the crowd and forced himself to see the princess get crowned. He stared up looking at the castle. "How did I get here...and what am I here for?" he thought. "I thought I had a mission to do..but where am I?" he thought again. "I feel like I have another destiny but why?" He stood there questioning his destiny throughout the dozens of people watching in aw. He looked up and saw the beautiful princess. Cloud looked down and thought to himself "I will protect you...that's my mission...I finally realize this." Cloud rushed himself through the crowd of people then.

[Princess Mononoke]

I must speak to the new queen thought Shadarii.. there was a reason. and all around her there were so many people. How will I be able to find her and talk to her. Surely she would be to busy to see me anyway. Shadarii starts to push her way through the crowd, but doesnt get far. *sigh* Tonight is no good. Shadarii decides to find the closest inn and a room for the night.

[Ayumi]

*Beyond the Palace gates and it's civilized corridors, Queen Klea sits comfortably in her private chambers glad for a little quiet personal time after the pomp and ceremony of her coronation. The Private Chambers of the young Queen reflects personal taste that is as delicate and feminine as the woman who resides there, plush velvet seats and silk brocade furbished rosewood chairs, a four poster bed fit for... no pun intended... a faerie queen, wide doors elaborate and elegant leading to her private libraries, crystal enclosed gardens and bathing area.
In Her hands is a heavy leather bound album, every page filled with halo-projected images of her family. Gazing at the smiling faces of her mother and father as well as herself, Klea feels again a heartwrenching grief inexpressable by words alone. She closes her eyes and ponders quietly on what fills her veins and in her ears she can hear her mother's voice.*

"........An uncountable amount of years ago, in the time known as out of mind, there lived a beautiful Faerie Queen who ruled Medias Res. In her possessed a powerful and mysterious ability to control the Stream of power, something no one before her and no one after could possibly do. She was a Good Queen and desired what was best for her people. Thus she set out to explore the unknown universe and met many realms and dimentions previously undiscovered and having done so worked tirelessly to create a way in which these worlds could come together for the Good of all. The Queen created the system of portals which ran along the Stream of power that not only allowed passage through the universe but also allowed tapping into the limitless source of Magic the Stream of power could provide. This was extremely useful as the Magic drawn from the Stream powered the conversion plants which furnished cities with lights and heating as well as powered ships and crafts of transportation other than the portals.
Not all were happy however that the portals from each world all led to Medias Res first, where you had to transfer to the portal which would take you to your final destination, and many grew envious of the prosperity which flourished there. From that jealously rose a war which ripped apart the countryside of Medias res and many of it's cities. Many lives were lost and it was only with the aid of the Great Hero and warrior-poet Vergilius that the enemy was defeated.
In the aftermath of war, the Queen heeded the advice of her close friend the Oracle and the Hero Vergilius and cast out a great enchantment. The Great enchantment was a calling of blood and power... Her Blood and her power... From there after the female decendents of this one Queen would be what kept the Portal system alive. When one Queen stepped down or died the blood would call to an offspring of that Queen and she who is chosen by the Blood would rule and the Portal system would continue...... If anyone killed a chosen Queen who had no children the portal system would collapse and the light from the stream of power would slip forever from everyone's grasp.
As everyone including magic wielders such as Sorcerors and wizards depends so greatly on the Stream of power, every time a girl child is born to a reigning Queen there is a sigh of relief throughout the Galaxy. A Queen without children is a dangerous thing.... dangerous thing....."

*Queen Klea looked up from her book as her chamber door opened, surprised as she had partially dozed off... Startled she sees someone enter....*

[Cloud Strife]

As the newly crowned queen went inside her castle for some privacy, Cloud decided to head to the bar to get a drink. As he entered the bar, two thieves wanted to fight him because he looked like an enemy. As Cloud explained himself,
they noticed that he was a paladin knight, knighted by the queen herself. He entered the bar and got his drink then headed to the inn for the night.

[SGI]

Looking up seeing the fight that didn't happen, Kain narrowed his eyes. Looking towards the Paladin he felt a sickening feeling in his stomach, a Paladin, the one thing he hated more than dishonourable warriors were the conceited arrogance that was Paladins. Being a Drow, he was always harrased by the self centered actions of Paladins who alway fed their ego's by causing trouble for his self.

Closing his eyes he remembered the worst encounter in which a group of Paladins nearly had him burnt on a stake. Opening his eyes, back in the tavern, he tightly clenched his fist, resisting the anger that was overcomming him. It would mess up his assignment to be executed for murdering a Paladin, no matter how tempting it was.

[Jimbo]

OOC: Oh it looks like I'm coming in pretty late, you guys are so fast! BTW Ayumi I changed my bio, my PM's aren't working properly for some reason, probably my crappy computer.

BIC: Jerii stood at the front of the masses as the new Queen was being corinated. He was stuck on guard duty, and only official knights of the Royal Order could stand by the Queen.

"Hey look some pickpockets," Masa replied.

"I know, but I have worse problems to attend to," Jerii muttered trying to gently slide people back.

"The Queen looks as if something is on her mind," Mune suggested "Maybe she ate a bad apple or something."

"I think an upset stomach is the least of her worries," Jerii replied.

The crowd stopped for a moment, which surprised Jerii. He turned around and saw that the new Queen removed her veil instead of the Majordomo. He raised his eyebrow in disbelief, this was the first time he's seen someone break tradition like that.

"Heh maybe I'll be able to break tradition one day," Jerii thought.

"You don't look like the type who would," Masa joked "You look more like a stable boy than royalty."

"Aren't you guys suppose to be supportive of me?" Jerii thought "I mean, I am your wielder after all."

"Doesn't make you all powerful," Mune said "True strength comes from within."

"Right.....you know I never understand these little sayings you always tell me," Jerii rambled in his head "Can you please explain to me what the heck you're saying!"

"But there's no fun in that," Masa replied.

"Yeah, its better when you do something that makes you understand the lesson," Mune laughed "Then you'll go "OOOOOOO I GET IT NOW!""

Jerii chuckled a bit, understanding what the two spirits were explaining to him. He sighed and watched as the Queen left, and the ceremony was done. Now Jerii was able to have some free time, before he would have to spar with the other squires and knights. He decided to take it easy and hang by the fountain outside the tavern. Jerii sat on a bench in front of the fountain just comtemplating his life.

"A lot has happened these past two years," Jerii thought "I mean, I found Masamune and then the King and Queen of Media Res pass away, not to mention that I'm still a knight in training."

"Don't worry about it," Masa said "You'll get you chance to be knighted someday."

"When is someday...." Jerii sighed.

"Cheer up kid, you just have to wait for the right moment," Mune replied "Great things take time."

"I guess you're right." Jerii laughed.

He stood up from the bench and began to stretch out his arms and then legs. It was about time he headed back to the barracks. Jerii had a test on jousting today and he didn't want to be late. He began to walk towards the palace, but not directly inside of it. The Knight Barracks were located to the west of the castle, and a seperate building altogether. He headed out to the training field where most of the potential knights were already sparring with each other. From where Jerii was standing he could get a good view of the palace and all it's windows.

"Heh wonder what the new Queen's doing," Jerii chuckled.

"She's not preparing for a jousting test that's for sure," Masa replied.

"Hurry up and get your horse!" Mune exclaimed "The test is going to start soon."

Jerii's eyes widened and dashed towards the stabled, hitting himself in the head for forgetting the most important tool for jousting, your steed. Jerii ran back and forth through the stables until he found a black horse, with a white stripe on his forehead. Jerii smiled at his horse, he raised it since it was a pony. The horse's parents were that of Jerii's Father's horse, so he felt a strong connection towards the animal.

"Come on Knight Rider!" Jerii replied opening the stable doors.

He mounted Knight Rider and they galloped towards the training grounds. Jerii's mentor, Sir Gar Makumi was alrady waiting for him. He had an impatient look on his face, which frightened Jerii.

"You're late again?" Gar replied.

"I'm so sorry, I got caught up thinking about different things." Jerii said.

"The only thing you have to think about now is how you're going to defeat you're opponent in the joust," Gar smiled "Here wear your helmet."

Jerii took the knight helm and placed it on his head. Gar then handed him his jousting stick and Jerii galloped towards the starting line for the first competitor. Another squire made his way to the opposite side of the field getting ready to charge.

"Stay calm," Masa said.

"Aim, and don't hesistate!" Mune shouted.

"Okay okay, just let me concentrate." Jerii whispered.

The judge looked to make sure both trainees were ready. Then he dropped a piece of cloth signaling the two to go.

[Princess Mononoke]

ooc: ah i suppose i made it on time ayumi^^

bic:
Shadarii walked into the magnificent chamber. As she was escorted to the queen she looked from side to side and looked at all of the beautiful artwork and the velvet walkway. As Shadarii approached the new queen of medias res, they both seemed to catch each others eyes and the queen gave a slight smile. Shadarii bowed in front of her.

"Your majesty I have come for a single reason though I am not quite sure you can offer your help for me..."

There was a small silence and as Shadarii began to lift her head and look up, the queen spoke...

[Ayumi]

*Getting over her beif surprise she offers the young woman and the page who escorts her, a gracious smile with her grey eyes kindly and warm as she listens to her speak....
"Your majesty I have come for a single reason though I am not quite sure you can offer your help for me..."*

"Sweet Madame, if there is any way I might assist you then my assistence is yours... Jean-Louis, bring the young lady some refreshments... I think she has come a long way and could use it... Perhaps some Rose or lavender water?And please help her into a seat"

*At his grin she laughs merrily*

"Yes yes I know but we are quite informal today and now that I am Queen I shall decide what traditions are worth honoring. Pray bring that nice soft chair over for the lady and after you've brought the refreshments do go play some net ball in the coutyard.. You are becoming too serious by half ... Seriousness should be left for when you are at least in the last training level of near Knighthood.Off you trot then!"

*Shooing her page away she smiles after him before returning her attention to Shadarii... Though her expression is merry her grey eyes hold a striking intelligence and sobriety."

"Now then Madame... What may I do for you?"

[Belisarius]

...

Nyle awoke. The last thing he remembered was walking down the road from the field where Cormal would have stood, had it not been destroyed millenia ago with his friends. Now, he felt sand and surf underneath him, and the warmth of the sunlight on his face. He heard the wash of a seacoast. Cormal Field was hundreds of miles inland.

"Another trap of Drakart's?" he wondered. It surely couldn't have been worse than the last one. He remembered the townsfolk in Cormal whispering that who saw the ghost would be her next victim, and therefore being chosen by his party as the one to guard over Mirabel, the woman who had been last to see the ghost. After all, how could a blind man see the ghost? But then, in that moment when Mirabel had died, the image of the ghost's face had flashed in his mind...Nyle felt a momentary chill. It had been close. Jeff had finally saved them.

His companions...where were they?

"Jeff?" he shouted

"Mederu?"

"Bob?"

Silence.

Reluctantly, he tried one more name: "Justarius?"

"I guess I'm...alone."

A growl at his side brought him back to reality.

"I didn't mean it like that, Wolf."

Nyle felt a wash of resentment coming from his animal companion. He sighed. Well, at least his weapons and belt pouches were intact.

"Come on, Wolf, let's find a city. I need to find out where on Aiyon I am..."

#

It didn't take Wolf long to find a city--it was fairly close. Nyle was almost reluctant to find it, as he was enjoying walking through the woods. He'd always felt at home in the woods, even before he lost his sight. Now, it was even more comfortable, as his sixth sense always seemed sharper in the woods, and the echoes clearer. The city...it was loud, obnoxious, and often violent. It did, however, offer...comforts. Nyle wondered if they'd let Wolf into a tavern.

There seemed to be a tension around the gates, although the guards weren't turning anybody away. Nyle hoped that he wouldn't be asked to state his business, since he had no idea where he was. When he approached, however, the guard merely said "Pass," so Nyle picked up the pace and stepped forward.

THUD!

"Who put a wall there?" complained Nyle.

"The gate is over here, friend," said the guard in a tired voice.

[Cloud Strife]

Originally posted by SGI@Oct 27 2003, 04:49 PM
Looking up seeing the fight that didn't happen, Kain narrowed his eyes. Looking towards the Paladin he felt a sickening feeling in his stomach, a Paladin, the one thing he hated more than dishonourable warriors were the conceited arrogance that was Paladins. Being a Drow, he was always harrased by the self centered actions of Paladins who alway fed their ego's by causing trouble for his self.

Closing his eyes he remembered the worst encounter in which a group of Paladins nearly had him burnt on a stake. Opening his eyes, back in the tavern, he tightly clenched his fist, resisting the anger that was overcomming him. It would mess up his assignment to be executed for murdering a Paladin, no matter how tempting it was.
Cloud saw that Kain clenched his fist, so Cloud grabbed his sword in defense.
"Here to fight me or kill me? In the name of the queen...I wont let you win."
Cloud stood his his fighting stance but the bartender stopped them both from slaughtering one another.
Cloud looked at Kain and saw the anger and torment in his eyes. "I know what you have been through...I don't want to be your enemy." Cloud said to Kain. "I want to be your ally...I won't harm you...I'm not even from this dimension...I'm merely from a different one." "I was asked by the new queen to be a holy knight...I'm sure you would fit well...if you want I'll put in a good word for you." "But before you try to fight me, if you do, explain to me why you would want to fight me."

[Tora_No_Unmei]

OOC: Didn't think it would harm anything since I did change a little bit on the bio. Now Quinn just isn't a knight yet. Shes still in training. Thats all it is. *shrugs* Its what I came up with to change.

BIC: The squire facing Jerii grinned behind the helm since she had already slapped down the front, lowering her jousting stick, pushing her stormy grey stallion into a run toward her opponent. She relaxed her breathing slightly as she settled into the feel of the run, her body jerking only slightly to stay steady but she didn't worry about being shoved off balance, shifting her grip on the jousting stick the closer they got to hitting, her green eyes peering through the opening of the helmet watching his jousting stick half and partly his body itself.

[Behindthesmile]

Drion walked out of his room, down through the bustling tavern underneath. The tavern was full of life. 2 merchants by the looks of it was sitting by the windows edge, the bald man sitting by the bar a mason. He scanned through the room checking each person in it. He learned through training and experience to determine some ones occupation and condition which helps him pick out potential ventures in the future as well as potential dangers. Looking at the far right corner of the room where the dimmest lights are located he spotted the Drow. “A fighter from the looks of it�, Drion thought. “Hey I’m talking to you!� someone shouted to his left, distracted from his scrutiny on the Drow he turned his attention to the oncoming raucous that’s to follow, 2 bandits from the look of them drunk and ready for a fight. Now interested he looks at the shout’s recipient the man has a scar on his left cheek and from his bearing, Drion can tell that he’s a warrior. But the crest he wears tells everyone that he’s one of the queen’s Paladins. It seems that the rogues recognize the crest too because they started to run. Everyone laughed at the silly way they tried to escape the tavern but was hushed again when the Paladin spoke
Originally posted by Cloud Strife Posted on Oct 27 2003@ 08:33 PM
"Here to fight me or kill me? In the name of the queen...I wont let you win."
Cloud stood his his fighting stance but the bartender stopped them both from slaughtering one another.
Cloud looked at Kain and saw the anger and torment in his eyes. "I know what you have been through...I don't want to be your enemy." Cloud said to Kain. "I want to be your ally...I won't harm you...I'm not even from this dimension...I'm merely from a different one." "I was asked by the new queen to be a holy knight...I'm sure you would fit well...if you want I'll put in a good word for you." "But before you try to fight me, if you do, explain to me why you would want to fight me."Â*
The Paladin stared at the Drow waiting for a reply and so did everyone else for that matter. As things were getting interesting Drion felt a tug at his shirt, a boy, one of the more successful pickpockets he’s seen earlier spoke to him in thieves tongue “its time.� And ran off, most likely tell the other thieves that the meeting has to start. Drion regrettably glances back at the two warriors and walks towards the door.

OOC:
Theives tongue is kinda like sign language. And being errand boys for the thieves guild is part of the training regiment for pickpockets.

[SGI]

Standing up rather angrily he walked past the Paladin. "Unfortunately, killing you at the momment would be of no benefit, in fact it would be quite the hinderance. I have my own buisness to get to..."

Walking out of the tavern he shudders as he enters the crowded city, he can already feel the resentful gazes on his own self.

[Cloud Strife]

Looking back at Kain with sorrow in his eyes Cloud said "I have no intention of fighting a warrior like you. All I want to know is why you would want to kill me in the first place? I don't want to be your enemy."
Cloud stood still holding that sword that has been sheathed on his back in protection of himself.

[Belisarius]

Wolf led Nyle to the nearest tavern. There seemed to be some sort of conflict going on, but when wasn't there, in a tavern? In a way, it was helpful, since nobody said anything about Wolf.

Nyle sat down at the barstool and ordered himself a beer.

"Actually," he said to the bartender, "Make it two; Put one in a bowl."

"A bowl, m'lord?"

"Aye, for Wolf." Nyle gestured. The bartender issued a puzzled grunt.

"Wolf loves beer," explained Nyle. "I suppose I just got used to it."

The bartender passed Nyle his beer (and Wolf's), and Nyle reached into his pouch. He selected a gold mark. (One of the first things Nyle had learned, after losing his eyesight, was to distinguish denominations of money by weight and feel. EVERYBODY was willing to cheat a blind man)

The bartender examined the coin again. His puzzlement was so strong that Nyle could almost sense it in the same way as he sensed impressions from wild animals ((Thinking of the NWN Animal Empathy skill, although Nyle's specialties would be Hide and Move Silently)).

"Son, what the devil kind of money is this?"

"Pendari gold crown," said Nyle confidantly. "I'm from Pendaran, originally. Actually, I haven't the faintest notion where I am right now."

"So you're not here to see the new Queen?"

Nyle pulled his hood back and fixed the bartender with his sightless, white-eyed stare. "Friend," he said, "I'm not here to see anything. I just want to find my friends again." In a few words, Nyle described Mederu, and Bob. He was unable to describe Justarius or Jeff, as they had met up after Drakart's mages had taken Nyle's sight from him.

OOC: By the game's logic, it would be necessary for Drakart's banishment spell to deposit Nyle's friends somewhere in Medias Res, but I don't want to find them--I'd probably mess up RP'ing characters written by others.

[Jimbo]

Jerii watched as the opposing trainee held her ground and charged without hesitation. He steadied his jousting stick preparing to strike down his opponent when he felt a sharp jolt in his chest. The opponent's stick impaled Jerii's chest knocking him straight to the ground. Luckily, the jousting sticks were made out of a weak tree and didn't cause serious injury. The crowd of potential knights cheered for the victor, then applauded for the effort of the defeated, Jerii.

"Wow, you lost to a girl!" Masa laughed.

"She just mowed you down!" Mune chuckled.

"Hey, women are strong too!" Jerii thought "Plus I suck at jousting!"

"Maybe she should have found us instead of you." Masa suggested.

"Hey!" Jerii shouted in his mind.

"We're only kidding, cheer up, we told you that you still have much to learn." Mune replied.

"Yeah, you're right," Jerii muttered softly.

He dusted himself and got to his feet. Knight Rider trotted towards Jerii giving a short snort. The horse rubbed his head against Jerii's cheek trying to cheer him up. Jerii smiled and patted Knight Rider's head, while using his other hand to rub his chest. The pain was faint, but still resided inside Jerii. He walked up to the squire that defeated him and gave a bow of respect.

"Good job, I didn't see that coming," Jerii smiled.

He then turned around and walked towards Gar.

"I'm sorry Master Gar," Jerii said bowing down.

"Don't worry about it," Gar smiled bringing Jerii back up to his feet "You did a fine job, now go and spar over at the battle grounds and wait for the rest of the squires to finish their test."

Jerii bowed down and began to walk towards the rugged battle grounds where all the knights and squires practice their swordsmanship and fighting techniques.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn grinned slightly to herself, green eyes watching Jeriis back even as she lifted the helmet off, having already gently led her stallion to the side and turning him to watch the fight for a little longer, looking up when her own Master spoke to her,"Go on Quinn. You don't need to watch this. You already won one fight. I'll call you if your needed again."

He made a gentle 'go on' motion. He was an older man but still had his black hair, tied in a short pony tail and a bit of a beard. Quinn raised an eyebrow at him,"Wouldn't it be better for me to see the rest of the fights? Know what I could be up against?"

Her voice, instead of being soft like any normal womans, instead had a crisp accent to it, giving her still a gentle voice but still a commanding note to it.

The older man couldn't help but chuckle, turning bright blue eyes back toward the fight and waved a dismissing hand,"Squire Quinn. Go on. I give you an order now to go stretch and train with others. Work on your sword skills. Thats where you still need help. Jousting seems to be a strong point for you but sword needs more work."

Quinn rolled her eyes with a murmered,"Hai...."

She stripped off her helmet. She had been wearing only a thin armor instead of the more heavy metal type and left that, gently nudging Arashi {Storm) into a trot, turning her back on the jousting, her Master holding onto her jousting staff and helmet until she needed them.

Reddish brown hair twitching and brushing against her cheeks she searched for a moment before whistling sharply in the direction on Jeriis back before pushing Arashi into a faster pace to catch up with him, tilting her head when she was beside him,"Hi. Didn't get the chance to reply since you walked off before I could. But good fight. Work on getting into the run at once and lengthen your grip on the jousting stick. You don't need to hug it so close to your body. Its better to go for reach since that helps for you to place more distance on your partner and you can follow through with a shove from behind. Haven't snapped a jousting stick yet over it."

She raised an eyebrow and shifted her grip on the reins to hold out a hand,"Quinn Seirei(Spirit). And you?"

[Jimbo]

Jerii began to get flustered noticing the person he had just fought introduce herself so suddenly. He began to repeat her name over and over in his head so he wouldn't forget it, Jerii was never good with names.

"Keep it down, we'll remember the name for you," Masa replied.

"Sorry I forgot you can read you my mind too," Jerii laughed in his head.

Jerii smiled and bowed down lowering his sword.

"Don't just stand there," Mune shouted "Introduce yourself!"

Jerii hit himself in the head for forgetting such a simple thing.

"I'm Jerii Romen," Jerii replied "Pleased to meet you."

He then tried to remember the pointers that Quinn explained to him. Jerii hoped that next time he would be able to at least win one jousting match.

"Thanks for the tips," Jerii smiled "I'm not too good at jousting, but I'm pretty good at swordsmanship."

He then raised his sword up to his shoulders, and patted it on its blade.

"That feels goooooood," purred Masa and Mune in unison.

Jerii chuckled and then restrained his laughter, knowing that Quinn probably had no idea why he was laughing. He then motioned for Quinn to join him near the dummies, used for marksmanship.

"Might as well make use of our free time, and practice striking areas." Jerii said swingining his sword against the dummy.

"So why did you decide to become a knight?" Jerii asked.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Only after Quinn had slid off her own horses back and settled infront of a dummie beside Jeriis and had taken a few sharp strikes did she finally speak up, glancing in his direction before turning her attention to the dummie,"I did it for a few reasons. One was for myself and to show the boys where I come from that I'm not weak as they might have thought. And for my older brother, Terin. His dream was to become one of the royal guards for the Queen."

She fell silent for a moment as she twisted on one foot as though someone had come up behind her and slashed, nearly tripping over her own swing even as she practiced the move as though someone was there and snarled low, resting the point of her blade against the ground,"Look at me Romen. I'm a squire and I can't even handle a sword correctly."

She shook her head gently, redish brown hair sweeping against her cheeks as she looked up,"I only reached this level through jousting skills, not sword skills. I need to work on them. I can still beat opponents through mere strength if their smaller then me but not always."

She shruged and lifted the blade, steadying her grip, bring the blade until the blade and her hands were level with her right hip before suddenly shoved forward with the blade, sword shoving deeply into the dummy. She draged her sword back, shifting her grip.

[Behindthesmile]

Drion walked across the other side of the city, slightly disappointed for missing the outcome back at the inn. He brushed his way through the overcrowded city streets till he reached the merchant district. The shops were still open even in these late hours and headed to a small non-descript bookshop. As he entered he noticed that it is one of the very few stores devoid of customers. The patron of the store looked up at the counter and just stared at him without uttering a word and went back to the book that he was reading. Drion walked up the counter and just asked “Excuse me I’m looking for a book on the historical sites of Palatina, do you have anything regarding that?� To an average person they might be offended at the shop keeper since he’s not looking up his book, but with people who the right training can see that he’s actually looking at Drion’s hands movements that’s says “I’m here for the meeting�. The shop keeper put down his book and said “Ahhh!!! I’m sorry but we sold out on those books.� His hands gestures however spoke in thieves tongue “3 blocks from here there’s a pawn shop ask for silver bells embedded with diamonds.� Drion said his thanks and followed the book keeper’s instructions. He was later lead to the back of the pawnshop where he entered a huge vault, Drion tapped at the left wall 3 times and the center wall twice a few seconds later the right vault began to open leading to the largest thieves’ hall in Medias Res.

He was blocked by 2 huge men as he entered and was asked for his identification, satisfied they led him to an adjoining room. Inside was Medias Res’s most prominent thieves and guild masters from various cities. When the seats were full Arkias, Palatina’s guild master stood up. “I thank you for coming for this gathering how are you people enjoying Palatina so far? As you all know we seem to have a very interesting queen this time and there is some resentment brewing from traditionalists and various factions against her. But enough about politics and back to business, there’s a huge amount waiting for the person who gets our beloved queen’s crown jewels.� “Impossible!� someone shouted “too risky� said another. Everyone seemed to lean to that same train of thought. “I just want to announce that, anyways now that’s up and over with lets continue with the meeting.� The meeting continued on and not surprisingly the recruitment issue came up, Drion was only half attentive in his mind he’s going through the various scenarios that can happen in getting the jewels. “There only one chance of getting it and its tomorrow, during the big jousting tournament in commemoration for the queen�, smiling inwardly he decided “Risky, yes but its not impossible.�

[Ayumi]

*Colored light so fine and luxurious it could only be produced by the love affair of sunlight and stained glass bespelled her. She could only move closer, her bare feet padding lightly on the cold marble floor, hardly feeling the chill of the evening mist brushing her legs beneath her sleeping gown. Driven on by faint whispers she keeps moving... keeps searching... desperate to locate it's source.
Finally she opened the last set of palace doors to behold a lovely stained glass window she had grown up admiring. The Window itself was flawless and each panel depicted a separate part of her ancestor's tale.... Every panel was clear in it's meaning except for a small corner section her mother always figured was put in for artistic flare. Staring now at the ancient art work she watched as that section of panels started to glow and carefully she reaches out her hands towards it feeling compelled to touch it.
Something dark is behind her. Startled she turns to ward whoever it is off and in loosing concentration the Window shatters!*

*Klea sits up in bed panting for breath, both startled and shaken.* It was just a dream....just a dream...


********************

*A Good breakfast had closed off the uneasy feeling from last night's dream, and Klea sat listening to her High Council offering proposals on current issues interesting the realm.*

"How about a Royal joust, your Highness? The Royals Knights would like to display their skill to impress Her Highness."

*Klea smiled and nodded* " A Royal Joust would be excellent for the moral of the Knights as well as the court.... Perhaps a contest for a few of the younger Knights-in-training as well... I could offer some prizes for the winners.... A pity my Jean Louis is too young yet.

* A few of the Council members chuckle knowing how well the Queen favors the young boy as though he were a favorite younger brother and they too rather liked the young man*

*Another High Counciler stood to address the Queen.*....."Your Majesty, now that you have begun your reign of Beloved Medias res, I have been the recipient of some offers of foreign princes for Her Grace's most elegant hand... May I humbly express my admiration for some of those royal young men Your Highness?"

*Klea listened patiently and silently her impassive expression creating unease amongst those in the Council Chambers. Thoughtfully she speaks. * ...."Though I am sure his Highnesses have many fine and handsome qualities I do not think this is a proper time to discuss Marriage. Especially marriage to a foreign prince."

*The counciler bows and continues* " Your Grace is understandably wary but perhaps then Her Majesty would like the counsel to consider more domestic possibilities?"

*The Queen let out a little laugh* You never give up do you? No Gentle Councilers I will consider no prospects for marriage as of yet."

*Another counciler, an older man who had known the Queen since infancy and served under her Mother and father rose and bowed.*..."Begging your Highness' pardon... But will your Grace not consider the risk of giving no thought to marriage at all? It is Customary for a Queen to marry as soon as she has acended to the throne so that the security of Medias res can be assured , lessening the risk of the great calamity should we loose her highness all together. Your Grace would not consider it her duty to wed?"

* Silence again at the boldness of this speech. The Queen leans back against her seat, her Motto "Video et taceo" stitched into the tapestry behind her silently weighing her words before speaking.*

"You have faithfully served my parents and for that I will pardon your presumption to remind me of what duty I may or may not have.... Remember Councilers ... I am a Young Queen ... but I am still Queen and to the best of my conscience I will be a Good Queen. The Ship of Medias res sails smoothly along untroubled waters but the sea we call fate could change rapidly and so every decision must be made with great caution. Thus I will not wed in haste and choose a King-consort without care and thought as to how it may effect our homeland and my own personal happiness.... No Gentlemen I am not joking. I intend to consider my own satisfaction when choosing a King. Too many of my lady relatives have been reluctent brides and are now unhappy wives.
My Parents had a loving marriage and thus a sucessful partnership that raised the overall quality of court and also brought greater prosperity. I will have no less than what they had... and if I cannot have that I will have nothing at all."

[Princess Mononoke]

"Your highness there is a favor I shall ask of you. I come from the elven woods of Firienfeld. Bandits have moved into the wood and resisted out spells to remove them. They are destroying my forest, my home. I was sent to your council, because you, Queen Klea are our last hope."

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Princess Mononoke@Oct 30 2003, 01:41 AM
"Your highness there is a favor I shall ask of you. I come from the elven woods of Firienfeld. Bandits have moved into the wood and resisted out spells to remove them. They are destroying my forest, my home. I was sent to your council, because you, Queen Klea are our last hope*
*She had listened sympathetically to the young half elf and thought carefully on a plan of action... She gave gifts of food and weapons to aid the protection of the elves in the forest and now sat infront of her Council after announcing her decision to delay her marriage.*

Gentle Councilers... I would now like to address an important issue. There is a region of woods callled Firienfeld by the elves who inhabit it. Apparently there have been the worst kind of bandits despoiling the forest and they must be stopped. I insist upon it.
This errand should be an easy task for our more seasoned knights and a perfect oppurtunity for our less experienced hopefuls to get their feet wet. Tommorow's Joust will help decide who is ready for accompanying the mature knights on this Quest to Liberate the Elven Woods.

*Motions the young half elf forward graciously to a seat at the council table* "Gentle Councilers may it be my pleasure to introduce to you, our new High Counciler on Woodland affairs... Shadarii."

[Princess Mononoke]

Shadarii sat in the royal garden watching the birds fly in and out of the trees making beautiful nests and singing wonderful songs. She had no idea why but she had never seemed happier or more content than she did now. High Counciler on Woodland affairs she thought to herself, but more important than that my forest will now be saved. Tomorrow will be the day the knights are picked to save my forest and my family.
The queen had provided Shadarii with a very nice guest room that she could stay in, but Shadarii was in to good of a mood to go inside by herself. She decided to get up and walk around the town and maybe get to know some of the people here.

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud started walking by Kain and he said "We will meet again fellow warrior...I would be more than honored to duel with you if we meet next...but hear these words...I am no easy prey."
Cloud smirked as he walked away to go meet the queen..

Cloud then walked into the palace and kneeled before the sight of the queen.

"Your majesty. Do you have any plans for me?" Cloud asked
"If you do...do you know about a warrior named Kain? He almost started battle with me at a bar...do you know why he wanted to fight me? He mentioned something about paladins but I had no clue why he was so angry..please if you can...are you willing to give me an explanation your majesty?"

[SGI]

Watching happily as the Paladin walked away he sighed gladly. "I'm glad he's gone" he was really starting to get anoyed at his persistance. After walking down a few blocks he entered a leather tanner, approaching the counter he looked to the leather tanner standing there.

"The path to victory.."
"Is lead by the path.."
"Paved by us.."

The leather tanner nodded as he lead Kain towards the back, opening a trapdoor, beneath the door was a staircase, slowly he walked himself down into the the deep dark path, hearing the trapdoor close above him. Deeper and deeper down, feeling straight ground, he could clearly see ahead of him thanks to his dark vision.

Until...

A small room was before him, each corner lit by one torch. A large table, and a single drow sitting at a bench.

"Brother Kain, I heard you had an exchange with a holy knight? I am sure you made sure it would not blow our plot..."

Kain nodded silently.

"Then you should go get changed, we want our envoys to be ready to greet the queen."

Kain stared at clothing hanging over the table and nodded. Picking up the clothing he began undressing himself. Slipping on a leather vest, and placings a chainmail vest over that. He then began slipping on the royal robes of the small province of Nu'Tagur. This very small fronteir town was ruled by a Marquis who was known for welcoming drow. It was a pity he was picking this area to be his disguise. Quickly rubbing some charcol in his noteable white portion of his hair, before tying the hair back in a single tail. Lifting up his sleeve he tied a leather strap on his wrist, allowing him to flick his wrist to reveal his dagger.

"Are you ready?"
"Yes"

Standing up the Drow nodded, holding a large tube shaped case, obviously holding a map.

---
"MAKE WAY MAKE WAY"
The one drow shouted as the two well dressed made their way down the town. The two making their way through the crowd the two eventually made their way to the palace. Stopped in by their tracks by the two guards, one of the drows bowed, the more vocal one stepping forward.

"We are envoys of the town of Nu' Tagur, we are here with a gift to pay homage to our queen. Let us pass"

Looking at the two he notices one of them obviously shivering ,hiding his tears as he clings to his other hand. The guard chuckles, stepping aside he lets the two pass.

The throne room is suddenly before the, stepping into it escorted by two guards, the cowardly drow shivers, overwhelmed by this atmosphere, the queen sitting before them. With a holy knight kneeled down.

[Belisarius]

"Well now," said the bartender thoughtfully. "An Outsider, then, looking for other Outsiders, and apparently slipped through the portals unaware. Lofty events, neighbor, far too lofty for the likes of I. Perhaps you should seek out a bard, or even the Queen. I doubt that anything could come through a portal without the Queen knowing of it."

"Right," drawled Nyle sarcastically, "I'll just jaunt right on up to the bloody Queen and say, 'Pardon me, good madam, have you seen my friends?' Then she'll take one look at me eyes and say, 'Pardon me, good sir, but have YOU?'"

Nobles tended to be insufferable like that, Nyle knew.

"Well, then," said the bartender, displaying a surprising lack of affront, "you'd be best off seeking a bard. Bards always listen for odd stories to follow up on. Every one of them wants to write the next great epic."

Nyle sighed. "I suppose it's a better lead than any other I have. Where might I find a bard?"

"Why, at the Tourney, of course. Where great heroes (and villains) gather to joust, there will surely be bards there hoping to tell the tales," replied the bartender grandly.

"I suppose it'll have to do," mused Nyle, "Come, Wolf."

Wolf nosed the now-empty bowl a bit closer to Nyle.

"No more beer, Wolf, we have work to do."

Wolf whined.

"I said NO."

[Jimbo]

Quinn's words floated in Jerii's mind. Her skills as a jouster were impeccable, but her swordsmanship still needs practice. The two squires were on two different extremes, both better in opposite areas.

"I'm not much of a jouster," Jerii replied "My swordsmanship however, isn't all that bad."

He then turned to his dummy and took aim with his sword. Jerii drove his sword into the dummy's heart. He pulled his blade out of the dummy, turning his body towards the right. When he came around the dummy again he raised his foot in the air, kicking the head of the dummy in one fluit motion. The head flew off of the dummy and landed towards the side. Jerii laughed and scratched his head, amazed at his own strength.

"Didn't think I coulud decapitate the dummy like that," He chuckled.

"You know Quinn's story is much like yours, Jerii," Masa replied.

"Both you and her are trying to follow in your parents' footsteps," Mune said.

"Yeah, that's true, I think me and her can really relate to each other." Jerii thought.

He then faced Quinn putting his sword in it's sheath.

"My father....was one of the Royal Guards, way back," Jerii smiled "Sir Jougi Romen."

He took a moment to remember his father's face, before he continued.

"My mother was a blacksmith," Jerii replied "Even though most smiths were men, my mother was exceptional in what she did."

Jerii patted the armor on his chest, feeling the sturdiness, yet almost weightless of it.

"She made this armor for me before she died," Jerii sighed "My mother and father pasted away a while ago."

He folded his arms, trying to hold a straight face. Jerii missed his parents, he felt as if he was alone in the world at a very young age.

"I don't know how they died," Jerii sighed "They told me they'd be heading somewhere far away."

Jerii looked towards the sky watching the clouds move slowly, and the sun still shining bright.

"I don't even know if they're dead for sure, no ones found their bodies," Jerii smiled "All I have to remember them by is this."

Jerii then pulled out a necklace hidden underneath his collar. It was held together by a string of leather, with a strange ornament on it. The object on the necklace was a golden dragon, curved in a circle, holding onto some red jewel. Jerii held the necklace tightly before putting it under his collar.

"I would like to follow in my father's footsteps and become part of the Royal Guard," Jerii smiled.

He then had a sudden happiness in his heart.

"Quinn how about we make a promise," Jerii asked "I promise that someday, we'll both become the Queen's Royal Guard, and fulfill our parent's dreams."

"A promise huh?" Mune said "While you're at it, make a promise that you'll marry each other one day."

"What the heck!" Jerii shouted in his head "Shhhhh, she could never fall for a guy like me, come on you gotta be kidding me."

"Why don't you?" Mune replied "It's not like it's a big deal."

"YES IT IS A BIG DEAL!" Jerii screamed telepathically "Love is a very big deal!"

"Well you'll never get the Queen," Mune mumbled.

"Yeah it's better that you get someone within your league," Masa said.

"I'll find love someday, and if I fall in love with the Quinn or the Queen, it's going to be none of your business." Jerii thought.

"Well don't be thinking dirty thoughts," Masa and Mune said in unison "Because we can see and hear them."

"Don't you guys ever shut up!" Jerii thought."

"Sorry no off switch on this machine," Masa laughed.

"Hah nice one brother, alright we'll keep quiet now," Masa chuckled "I think Quinn will probably be freaked out that you're so quiet, yet so tense."

Jerii forgot that Quinn was still there, he tried to ease up and put up a smile.

"Sorry, so many things in my head," Jerii laughed.

"She's probably thinking I'm some sorta freak," Jerii thought.

"Well you are sorta weird," Masa noted.

"Not really a freak, but more of a abnormal person," Mune said.

[/i]"I thought you guys would keep quiet...." Jerii sighed in his head.[/i]

"Sorry," Masa and Mune replied.

Jerii then smiled at Quinn, and hoped she'd accept his promise...and not think he's a freak.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had watched and listen to Jerii quietly, her green eyes searching his features, flickering toward the necklace when he revealed it. She frowned,"I'm not even sure what happened to my own parents. I only really remember my older brother being there, then gone."

She had tried to fill the silence after his last words after his sudden silence carefully, her green eyes clearly showing her interest and slight confusion. After another moment or two she held out a hand,"I promise that we become royal guards and fullfill our familys dreams. And also another promise of my own that we will always help each other when we meet up. One knight to another. One friend to another."

She smiled gently, searching his eyes and spoke up after a moment of waiting for him to shake her hand,"Theres something strange about you. As though your talking to yourself in your mind or another when you fell silent. Anything you'd need to tell me? Your sword seems magical almost. A strange sense to it I guess you could say."

Green eyes sparkled with interest now as she searched his gaze, head lifted slightly since she was a bit shorter then him.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Cloud Strife@Oct 30 2003, 02:57 PM
Cloud started walking by Kain and he said "We will meet again fellow warrior...I would be more than honored to duel with you if we meet next...but hear these words...I am no easy prey."
Cloud smirked as he walked away to go meet the queen..

Cloud then walked into the palace and kneeled before the sight of the queen.

"Your majesty. Do you have any plans for me?" Cloud asked
"If you do...do you know about a warrior named Kain? He almost started battle with me at a bar...do you know why he wanted to fight me? He mentioned something about paladins but I had no clue why he was so angry..please if you can...are you willing to give me an explanation your majesty?"
*studies the young knight before her and lifts an eyebrow slightly at the odd request but smiles all the same with a gentle sort of good Humor... Her First High Council meeting having been a tiring event she longed for the peace of her gardens with some tea and contemplation.... Yet she had made a vow to make time for her Royal guard and councilers whenever possible.*

"My Young Knight I am afraid I know little about bar and tavern politics... It is outside my experience, there for I can explain nothing.
This man you encountered could have just had one too many drinks... Perhaps he envies your very enviable position as a member of the Royal Knights? Should you see him again just be wary and try not to fight with him unless he attacks. Afterall my Father the King always declared that the wisest warrior was the warrior who loved carnage least......
Now then... Will you be at the Joust? I would like for you to speak with the Younger knights. I would send you as messenger to the training area of the royal knights to announce the Competition that will commence at said Joust and there will be prizes... Oh yes... A sack of crowns a sword from the royal Forge ... perhaps a new saddle and the chance to accompany a legion on the quest to liberate the Wood elves of Firienfeld. This Legion will include a host of some of the finest Knights the Royal order may offer. All Young Knights-in-training may compete after the Seasoned Knights have completed their competition."

*Klea Smiled News would travel quickly and soon there would be many who would send their requests to compete in the Joust... Swiftly she send a message to the kitchens so that a grand banquet would be served afterward for all who would attend and compete and sent for some entertainment from Caelius.

Glancing up she noticed the Guards had allowed two well dressed men to enter. A Gentle smile comes easily to her face as she nods in greeting. The Young Queen is dressed in agown of wild violet silk, heavy with jewels trimming the collar, hem and cuffs. Her long locks are carefully arranged with her crown resting atop her head and behind her magnificent throne is her cloth of estate depicting her family's symbol and her motto as Queen. Regal and poised she watches and is silent as she waits for the envoys to speak.*



OOC: All those who are knights or wish to play Knights Pm me to work out the story arch of the Joust please :)

[Keshadei]

She had ignored most of the bickering going on the tavern. Not even a yawn passes her lips as she leans against the wall in silent, still boredom. Those at the tables near her had arrived after she had already settled against the wall. From her appearance, they took her as nothing more than an unusual redheaded marble statue. Once many of the main fighters had left, she herself pushed off the wall. She walks away with a smirk on her lips, amused at the expression on the others' faces when the 'statue' had walked away. Once in the plaza, she glanced towards the palace. Now, she yawns in her boredom. With a soft, assured sigh, she walks around the palace towards the gardens. Keshadei knows all too well that the new young Queen would have already been bombarded with people seeking her advice, council or just news. She soon pushes open the back gates to the garden, having seduced the guards there with her kinds abilities. She sits on one of the benches, as close to the roses as she can get without actually standing in them. Again, using her abilities, she becomes invisible to the eyes of anyone that passes her. She waits...simply, with patience until the woman she seeks emerges from the castle away from her council and people.

[Princess Mononoke]

Shadarii gracefully walked through the the middle of town. As she walked she tried not to glance from side to side. Most people in towns tended to look at her funny, because of her elvish ears she had inherited from her father. Shadarii stopped and sat on one of the cool stones sourounding the fountain in the middle of the city. Being close to the fountain , it splashed mist across her soft white face. She closed her bluish/gray eyes.

Father, she thought to herself, help me to cure our beautiful forest. They all need my strength: the trees, animals, and my people. But what am I supposed to do? I am but a half elf, in an elven forest... Does the queen really know she can help us? What would happen to our woodlands, father, if there is nothing we could do?

At that point Shadarii smiled as an old memory snuck into her mind.

Her elven father was behind her pushing the solid white swing Shadarii was sitting on. The sun seemed to smile and sparkle down on them through the bright green leaves of Firienfeld wood. Her father was speaking to her, some of the last words that he had ever said to Shadarii.

"What a beautiful young lady I have raised Shadarii. My daughter, look at that sun. She how it keeps smiling down on you, beautiful and bright. That sun is what keeps us here day to day and I want you to know that even when I am gone that sun will still be there, smiling and shining. Shadarii, if i leave and I dont come home to you, I want you to look at that sun and realize nothing can keep you from shining and smiling. If I'm not here, you my beautiful girl, shall take care of our forest. Dont let that sun down. If one day that sun doesnt rise, then the power of our forest has failed. "

Shadarii looked up at her father wide eyed and whispered, "But father I am but a half elf, what can I do for our forest?"

"Shadarii, this is our forest, there is always a way and you are part of our elven family. You are one of the few healers left in Firienfeld. As you grow, you will learn more."

Then her father turned her around and kissed her on her pale cheek. "This is your home Shadarii, never think otherwise."

Shadarii opened her eyes. Two days after the conversation with her father he had left her... for war... for our forest...

Shadarii wiped the single tear that fell down her soft cheek. She looked up at the sun as it touched the tip of the horizon, getting ready to dissapear into the dark night.

[SGI]

"We come from Nu' Tagur, representitives of its ruler. As an offering we wish to show you various sections of the land to make your very own royal land. As a mark of respect for your coronation"

The more composed of the two Drow said this as the more shaken one held tightly on to the map. The poor young drow was nearly scared out of his wits.

"What is wrong with your companion?" One of the guards shouted.

The calm drow bowed his head. "I am sorry, he is from a farm family, he has never witnessed such an extravegant area before." Giving a shove to his companion, the cowardly drow stumbled forward nearly tumbling over as he got to his knees before the queen. Calmly coughing, his shaking hand opened the leather map case. Pulling out the map from the case he layed it out before her suddenly unrolling it.

"As you can see, the lands to the east of here are rich in minerals.."

Suddenly everything stopped, laying on the map was a silver dagger, in the flash of a momment,in a single motion, the cowardly drow reached for it, and slashed it upwards. The eyes once full of fear now calm with resolve doing his best to try and slash a vital organ on the new queen.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Nov 1 2003, 04:43 PM
"We come from Nu' Tagur, representitives of its ruler. As an offering we wish to show you various sections of the land to make your very own royal land. As a mark of respect for your coronation"

The more composed of the two Drow said this as the more shaken one held tightly on to the map. The poor young drow was nearly scared out of his wits.

"What is wrong with your companion?" One of the guards shouted.

The calm drow bowed his head. "I am sorry, he is from a farm family, he has never witnessed such an extravegant area before." Giving a shove to his companion, the cowardly drow stumbled forward nearly tumbling over as he got to his knees before the queen. Calmly coughing, his shaking hand opened the leather map case. Pulling out the map from the case he layed it out before her suddenly unrolling it.

"As you can see, the lands to the east of here are rich in minerals.."

Suddenly everything stopped, laying on the map was a silver dagger, in the flash of a momment,in a single motion, the cowardly drow reached for it, and slashed it upwards. The eyes once full of fear now calm with resolve doing his best to try and slash a vital organ on the new queen.
*Klea watched the group of Drow entering with a faint smile.... The Court had seen many of their kind as her father had been very fond of them. She knew well their language, both in speech and in body postures and movements... Thus she knew by watching the shivering drow that something was terribly wrong and immediately disregarded the composed member of their party's explanation; Drow were seldom impressed or overwhelmed by opulence.
Holding a blank mask of ease and serenity she cooly listens and watches as she mind links with Jean Louis who makes a series of slight motions to her guards so that they can grab the Drow and secure them if they must. Her alarm grows as the leader shoves at the trembler and the cowardly Drow slips a dagger into his hand and makes his move under the guise of trying to show her the map.
Forcing herself not to freeze she slides under his flashing blade throwing his legs from under him with a well placed sweep kick. The Drow now filled with blood lust, having lost all fear and nervousness, rolls and tackles the young monarch and they both tumble to the ground amongst the shouts and screams and outcries of the court.
To his great surprise, when he makes his knife thrust the metal meets with thin air and where the Queen had been a moment ago she was now a few feet away and in his confusion two royal knights take advantage by seizing him and locking him and all his cohorts securely into enchanted chains.
Grinning at the would-be assasin's baffled expression the Guards grin.....*

Royal Knight:: "I don't suppose you knew that Her Majesty can teleport."

[SGI]

The leading Drow snarled harshly towards the queen.
"So you are the monster we heard you were.. mabye we should flash a crucifix at your face."

The actual assasin, the once cowardly drow was firm and silent as he looked the queen up and down. Chuckling to himself he shook his head. He muttered to himself "I was foolish..."

The leader snarled to the comerade. "It's not your fault, shes a monster.." Turning his head the assasin narrowed his eyes. "You are making excuses for yourself, that is not a leaders duty to. A true leader accepts his responsibility. As I am going to, do what you like, say what you wish, you will pay for it as well."

The two silently glared a teach other.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Nov 2 2003, 03:41 PM
The leading Drow snarled harshly towards the queen.
"So you are the monster we heard you were.. mabye we should flash a crucifix at your face."

The actual assasin, the once cowardly drow was firm and silent as he looked the queen up and down. Chuckling to himself he shook his head. He muttered to himself "I was foolish..."

The leader snarled to the comerade. "It's not your fault, shes a monster.." Turning his head the assasin narrowed his eyes. "You are making excuses for yourself, that is not a leaders duty to. A true leader accepts his responsibility. As I am going to, do what you like, say what you wish, you will pay for it as well."

The two silently glared a teach other.
*looks at the leading drow with a faint smile her grey eyes twinkling before laughing at his words.*

"Monster.... why yes you could say that.... But really crucifixes? Do you really think a piece of wood could save you?... Fear not symbols... Fear not perishing... Not even Death can save you from me..."

*Her eyes grow dark as she stares into those of the hostile drow.... And his dark skin pales as they lock eyes and the blankness so like that of death blooms within his eyes and he falls back an expressionless zombie before kneeling and bowing so low to the ground his forehead touches the floor awaiting his orders....

The Queen turns and looks to the once cowardly drow smiling calm and pleasent.*

"He is mine now."

[Pretty Boy of Evil]

Ramarren

Only a thin ribbon of light remains after the gate snaps shut, severing the soldier's arm off at the shoulder. Pulsing gouts of blood stain the frozen ground.

**************************************************

Deep within the Atrium of Time a gate opens. The sound of steel and flesh striking stone intrudes into the silence of the chamber. The lean man in a tattered midnight cloak kicks aside the dismembered arm, sending the weapon skittering over the hewn floor, still clasped in death by the gauntleted hand.

Damn.

His breathing is the tearing of moldy old leather. Charcoal from the soles of his boots mark his passing across the ancient floor. The lone guard, who bears only the wounds of a straight razor, doesn't even bother to raise his halberd to block the weatherbeaten traveler's way.

It's been three violent years, and he's come closer than ever before to achieving his goal.

But now he's back. And, as usual, Ramarren is pissed.

[Cloud Strife]

Originally posted by Ayumi+Nov 3 2003, 12:44 AM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (Ayumi @ Nov 3 2003, 12:44 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'> <!--QuoteBegin-SGI@Nov 2 2003, 03:41 PM
The leading Drow snarled harshly towards the queen.
"So you are the monster we heard you were.. mabye we should flash a crucifix at your face."

The actual assasin, the once cowardly drow was firm and silent as he looked the queen up and down. Chuckling to himself he shook his head. He muttered to himself "I was foolish..."

The leader snarled to the comerade. "It&#39;s not your fault, shes a monster.." Turning his head the assasin narrowed his eyes. "You are making excuses for yourself, that is not a leaders duty to. A true leader accepts his responsibility. As I am going to, do what you like, say what you wish, you will pay for it as well."

The two silently glared a teach other.
*looks at the leading drow with a faint smile her grey eyes twinkling before laughing at his words.*

"Monster.... why yes you could say that.... But really crucifixes? Do you really think a piece of wood could save you?... Fear not symbols... Fear not perishing... Not even Death can save you from me..."

*Her eyes grow dark as she stares into those of the hostile drow.... And his dark skin pales as they lock eyes and the blankness so like that of death blooms within his eyes and he falls back an expressionless zombie before kneeling and bowing so low to the ground his forehead touches the floor awaiting his orders....

The Queen turns and looks to the once cowardly drow smiling calm and pleasent.*

"He is mine now." [/b][/quote]
Cloud walks into the town of Nu&#39; Tagur, not knowing what is going on.
He sees the queen and Kain staring at each other ready for battle. "Just what is going on..why is the queen acting like that...like a monster? Is that really what she&#39;s like? Was she the one who sent the paladins to kill all of Kain&#39;s men and tortured Kain as well...what am I thinking? I&#39;ll just have to find the answers out for myself."
Cloud walks proudly to go meet the queen and sees what she&#39;s about to do.

[SGI]

Chuckling almost humourously he looks down shaking his head.

"I&#39;m sorry to say this, but he is merely acting liket hat because he is weak willed. Frankly even a Paladin&#39;s turn undead could cause him to wet his tunic."

Looking into the Queens eyes his eyes seem more firm and sharp. "Although it would be interesting to see what goes on in the eyes of a ruler."

[Jimbo]

OOC: Sorry for the long reply Tora, my comp was messed up during the weekend. I had to tinker with it for about six hours....

BIC: Jerii&#39;s eyes widened at Quinn&#39;s response, he shook her hand as if to seal the promise they had made. He was a little startled that Quinn noticed Jerii&#39;s conversations with his sword, even though it seemed fairly obvious. He thought in his head whether or not to reveal his secret. Not even Sir Gar, his mentor, knew the truth behind his sword.

"Should I tell her...." Jerii pondered.

"Can you really trust someone this early in a friendship?" Masa questioned.

"This could be a true test of her character though," Mune replied "If she can keep this big of a secret than she&#39;d make a very good ally in the future, don&#39;t you agree brother?"

"Yes, alright it&#39;s your call kid," Masa answered.

Jerii took a deep breath making sure he was doing the right thing. He then looked at Quinn&#39;s eyes, she had a sort of radiance about her which matched her beauty. Jerii hadn&#39;t really noticed how pretty Quinn was until now.

"Quit checking her out and give her an answer&#33;" Mune yelled.

"Learn to control your hormones Jerii...." Masa noted.

Jerii was about to growl, but haulted his action knowing that Quinn could take it the wrong way.

"Well, this sword isn&#39;t very ordinary," Jerii said "It&#39;s magical I guess."

He unsheathed his sword, Masamune. It&#39;s blade shined and glistened against the sun&#39;s rays, it was truly stunning.

"It&#39;s called Masamune, and the reason it&#39;s called that is because there&#39;s two spirits dwelling in the sword," Jerii said "Masa and Mune."

"I found the sword one day in the forest. The spirits in the sword told me to pull it out, and so I did, and well we&#39;ve been together ever since. The thing about the sword is that it has a big mouth, and both the spirits tend to talk alot."

"We do not&#33;" Masa and Mune said in unison.

"In fact they talk more than they should, plus they can read my thoughts. Somehow we&#39;re psychically linked. The spirits in the sword told me they were once great champions in the days of old, but somehow I&#39;m starting to think they&#39;re just some guys who had their essence locked in a sword."

"What the&#33;" Mune grunted "I&#39;ll have you know I was slaying dragons and saving damsels while your great grandfather was in his mother&#39;s womb&#33;"

"You shouldn&#39;t be the one talking, you&#39;re still not knighted yet SQUIRE&#33;" Masa yelled.

"Jeez, sorry, I&#39;m just kidding you two&#33;" Jerii replied back in his head.

"She&#39;s gonna get the wrong impression&#33;" Masa replied "What if she doesn&#39;t like us?"

"It&#39;s not like you&#39;re going to court her or anything, you&#39;re a spirit for crying out loud&#33;" Jerii thought.

"Oh yeah..." Masa sighed.

"As I was saying," Jerii continued "Masa and Mune are brothers, Masa is the older and wiser one while Mune is the younger and stronger brother. They give good pointers on swordsmanship, and help me in my training."

"They tell me they&#39;ve got some untapped potential in the sword that I&#39;m not ready for, so I guess the best I can do is train harder."

Jerii put the sword back in it&#39;s sheath.

"Great sword, but having to deal with these two," Jerii laughed patting the sword on his back "Is a real pain, but they brighten up your day, at least I know I&#39;m not alone."

Jerii chuckled a bit before he started walking.

"I&#39;m going to ask if I can get some free time in the town, if you want we can go together?" Jerii asked.

"Are you asking her out on a date?" Mune laughed.

"No, I&#39;m just wondering if she would like to accompany me that&#39;s all," Jerii thought back.

"It&#39;s a date" Masa and Mune replied.

"NO ITS NOT&#33;" Jerii shouted stomping his foot on the ground.

Jerii then stood still for a moment noticing that Quinn probably thought he was angry. He worked up a smile as sweat poured down his forehead. Jerii could hear the faint laughs of both Masa and Mune as he awaited for Quinn&#39;s decision.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had watched his movements and features with a carefull gaze at all times, her eyes scaning the blade when he&#39;d had it out before returning to his gaze when he slipped it back into the sheathe and seemed to snap out of her thoughts when he spoke up about heading to town if he was able to get free time,"Sure. I&#39;m sure my Old Master would allow me to go. He&#39;d keep an eye on Arashi for me until I need him again."

She smiled, bounding lightly beside him, sliding her sword into its sheathe before lifting her gaze to watch him before reaching out with a grin to tapp the sheath lightly, once, twice on his back,"My brother Terin told me a story he heard from our grandfather...or was it great-grandfather? Well...either way. He told me a story about twin brothers, Masa and Mune. It was an old story I used to ask him to tell when I was younger. Its been years though since I was told it so I no longer remember it. But the sprits within your sword are true about it."

She grinned and winked, reaching upward, bare hand to bare skin and grinned at the slight spark, green eyes searching his,&#39;I have a little inherited power of telepath that works better the first time though touch of bare skin to bare skin.&#39;

She winked and pulled her hand back, lightly settling on her feet again,&#39;Works well to scare boys I&#39;m fighting if I touch bare skin and suddenly say something to them. They can&#39;t tell its me and freak out.&#39;

She turned away, folding her hands behind her head and headed toward the ring again to find Jeriis Master. She had seen them talking and knew who to go to. Without glancing over her sholder she called back,&#39;Coming? And tell Masa and Mune if they can&#39;t hear me that I say hi.&#39;

She couldn&#39;t help but giggle softly at the thought of telling him to tell two spirits she said hi, but she did know the story and did believe him about the MasaMune.

[Belisarius]

Nyle stumbled out of the fourth tavern he had tried, to no avail. There just did not seem to be any bards here. Perhaps he would have to go to this tourney after all.

Nyle swayed unsteadily. He didn&#39;t understand it. He hadn&#39;t had anything to drink at all, but...

Nyle had a sudden flash of memory of an inn stayed in on the way to Aura, back when he was seeking Drakart, and of the woman he&#39;d bedded there. It hadn&#39;t been his intention to seduce the young lady, as at the time, he&#39;d still not gotten over Kira...but although he hadn&#39;t had a drop to drink that night, he had still not quite been himself.

He remembered that later that night, Wolf had puked on Justarius, nearly inciting the surly wizard into fireballing him. Sure enough, Wolf was more unsteady than Nyle was, and waves of sodden cheer rolled into him through his link with the little bugger.

"Wolf, you&#39;re drunk"

Wolf beamed. It&#39;s very difficult for a wolf to beam, but Wolf somehow managed it.

"I hope you don&#39;t throw up all over somebod--oh, dreck" The unmistakeable scent of wolf vomit assailed his nostrils. As well as the unmistakeable sound of a very angry yell.

"Terribly sorry," apologized Nyle to the enormous ox of a gladiator wearing night-black, spiky armor. "My friend&#39;s just had a little too much to drink."

"You train your dog to upchuck on people?" demanded the man in a deep, scary sounding voice.

"Er, no, really," demurred Nyle. "It&#39;s just--"

The gladiator&#39;s response has been omitted from this post due to excessive profanity, at the request of the administration, the FCC, and a platoon of British drill sergeants.

Nyle laughed weakly, "You wouldn&#39;t hit a blind guy, would you?"

The answer sent Nyle sprawling to the ground, and he lost consciousness.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Nov 3 2003, 04:13 PM
Chuckling almost humourously he looks down shaking his head.

"I&#39;m sorry to say this, but he is merely acting liket hat because he is weak willed. Frankly even a Paladin&#39;s turn undead could cause him to wet his tunic."

Looking into the Queens eyes his eyes seem more firm and sharp. "Although it would be interesting to see what goes on in the eyes of a ruler."
*her smile is easy and calm but her great grey eyes are a bit sad*

"I am afraid it is you who are mistaken... If I ordered him to end his life right now he would without fail... He is really and truely my creature now.. He will niether drink, nor eat, nor sleep, nor breathe if I do not wish it... He is a Zombie for as long as I hold him enthralled....."

* Even a hardened and cynical assassin can see the truth of her statement as the drow is without even the movement of breathing....cloaking herself in a serene mask she gazes calmly into Kain&#39;s eyes not harming him but infact filling him with a sensation of peace, contentment and euphoria... Utter joy so breathtakingly beautiful it could sear itself into the soul forever... all by the force of her will... Nodding slightly she quietly threads out of the Audience chamber leaving Cloud to follow her and the royal knights to take the prisoners into the finest holding cells... each enchanted to make escape impossible.... They were going to the Pearl Obliesque...*


"

[SGI]

Looking to his comerade, now a near zombie, he shakes his head. This Queen seemed to be so interesting, all of this twisted magic. He sharpens his lips as he is lead away, this was a perfect opertunity.

Kain begins clicking his tounge over and over, much to the irritation of the guards, stepping closer to his partner in crime, now a near zombie,he pauses and sighs shaking his head.

"Oi, Knight guy... is everying in this damned place enchanted?"

The knight stares at him coldly. Closing his eyes he shakes his head. "Gee not the talkative type are you?" Looking forward again he reaches his hands down trying to scratch an itch on his leg, he just knew there was something up with all this magic, what hasn&#39;t settled right in him? Something in his stomach.

"Well can you at least tell me where in the abyss we are going?"
"The Pearl Obliesque..."
"Wow youre not just some walking golem?"
"What did you call me?"
"I said, you are a walking golem. Did you hear me right?"

Kain grinned sharply looking at the knights irritation as he drew his sword.

"I&#39;ll cut you down right here and now.."

Kain shook his head coyly.
"Tsk tsk tsk, does your code not count when somebody is in chains huh? All upright and honourable when fighting a soldier, but cutting down "peasents" as if they were meat isn&#39;t?"

The knights face was a startling red, compareable with a tomato, his hands, and sword arm shaking in fury, struggling to restrain himself. After a full minute of silence, he sheathed his sword and prodded Kain forward.

[Jimbo]

Jerii almost jumped hearing Quinn&#39;s telepathic powers. He then calmed himself down, trying not to overreact, afterall, Quinn trusted Jerii enough to show him that. He almost shivered, feeling Quinn&#39;s warm touch on his skin. He didn&#39;t know women&#39;s hands were so soft. Jerii was in a dreamlike state, almost swaying back and forth.

"Hey snap out of it kid&#33;" Mune replied.

Jerii immediately left his daydreaming world and returned to reality. Before he knew it, Quinn was already out of the training area, talking to Sir Gar.

"She says hi," Jerii smiled.

"We know," Masa and Mune replied in unison "She sure is a gifted one."

"Yeah, that whole telepathy thing really caught me off guard," Jerii chuckled in his head.

"Yeah, if she plays her cards right, she&#39;ll be able to develop those powers," Masa noted.

"And she could probably tune into our little conversations," Mune laughed "But it&#39;ll be hard to keep a lock on our signal."

"So she knows about your little escapades back in the day," Jerii thought "So all those stories you&#39;ve been telling me are true...."

"Duh, of course they are&#33;" Masa retorted.

"Yeah, I can&#39;t believe you doubted us....that&#39;s probably the reason why you can&#39;t unlock the full potential of the blade," Mune exclaimed.

"I know it&#39;s wrong for me to doubt you two," Jerii sighed "I&#39;ve known you for two years....I&#39;ll promise to put a little more faith in you."

"That&#39;s what I like to hear," Masa said "Now go and get her tiger."

"Roar&#33;" Mune growled sarcastically.

"Okay I get the picture, but we&#39;re still friends, and I intend to keep it that way." Jerii thought.

"That&#39;s not what you&#39;re hearts telling me," Masa whistled.

"Well my head&#39;s telling you to calm down," Jerii chuckled.

He began to walk back to the jousting area, getting close enough to spot Quinn and Gar. Gar looked at Jerii and gave him a thumbs up, letting him know that he approves of the break. Jerii motioned for Quinn to follow Jerii, as he headed into town.

"Hope we find something interesting to do on our time off," Jerii said.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn laughed quietly,"I&#39;m sure we&#39;ll find something. Your Master Gar turned out to be very kind."

She made a slight motion toward the man with Arashi,"Thats my Master. He knows we&#39;re going."

She smiled upward at Jerii,&#39;You three are loud with your own link. Even if I can&#39;t fully understand what is said. I can tell that you are talking with them. Its not like its the first time I used the strength so I can sense thing pretty well.&#39;

She fell silent for a moment before seeming to think of something and leaned up slightly on tiptoes, settling her balance carefully to keep walking but still be able to reach. She reached up, pressing her palm to the handle of the sword when she could reach it, passing one short message, she only really needed to touch once before she could mostly keep a link,&#39;Be nice to him Masa, Mune. He doesn&#39;t seem like such a bad squire. Hes still learning after all. And so am I.&#39;

She settled back on flat foot to walk normally but her telepath still settled on Jerii and now the sword spirits. The sword spirits were the harder ones to hold onto at the moment and they entered the town, wandering along when she took notice of the boy laying in the streets(Nyle), a wolf beside him and looked to Jerii, meaning to speak outloud but instead spoke in link,&#39;Think hes okay?&#39;

She made a slight motion toward the boy.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Tora_No_Unmei@Nov 4 2003, 08:39 AM
Quinn laughed quietly,"I&#39;m sure we&#39;ll find something. Your Master Gar turned out to be very kind."

She made a slight motion toward the man with Arashi,"Thats my Master. He knows we&#39;re going."

She smiled upward at Jerii,&#39;You three are loud with your own link. Even if I can&#39;t fully understand what is said. I can tell that you are talking with them. Its not like its the first time I used the strength so I can sense thing pretty well.&#39;

She fell silent for a moment before seeming to think of something and leaned up slightly on tiptoes, settling her balance carefully to keep walking but still be able to reach. She reached up, pressing her palm to the handle of the sword when she could reach it, passing one short message, she only really needed to touch once before she could mostly keep a link,&#39;Be nice to him Masa, Mune. He doesn&#39;t seem like such a bad squire. Hes still learning after all. And so am I.&#39;

She settled back on flat foot to walk normally but her telepath still settled on Jerii and now the sword spirits. The sword spirits were the harder ones to hold onto at the moment and they entered the town, wandering along when she took notice of the boy laying in the streets(Nyle), a wolf beside him and looked to Jerii, meaning to speak outloud but instead spoke in link,&#39;Think hes okay?&#39;

She made a slight motion toward the boy. *While the Queen rests from the uproar of near assassination, Jean Louis makes his way through the streets towards a Royal Knights Training camp.. He is a Handsome boy, a bit gangly from a recent growth spurt and not at all filled out but possessing of a friendly way and a warm kindness that made him popular with many and his bright green eyes and sunny locks just hint at a future golden attractiveness.

Seeing a few trainee-knights, the young page stops and bows courteously*

"Hail Students of the order... I have come on request of Her Majesty the Queen of Medias Res to benevolently invite all Knights in training, such as yourselves, to compete in the Royal Tournament and joust, to begin tommorow at Dawn.... There will be great prizes for the Students such as a sack of Gold Crowns, a new saddle made by the Queen&#39;s Tanner, a weapon of choice from the Queen&#39;s blacksmith, and the opportunity to join a Legion forming to venture out on a quest to save the Elves of Firienfeld. Her Gracious Majesty looks forward to your presences."

*Bowing Elegantly Jean Louis happens to see Nyle laying sprawled out on the floor.. With a worried frown he excuses himself to check on him...*

"He&#39;s unconcious... and blind... Who in the galaxy would pick on a blind man?"

*Shaking his head he waves to some guards who accompanied him on his errands... The Queen was over protective sometimes.... The Guards take the fallen man with them to the palace the young page intow, though he complained why he couldn&#39;t finish his errand on his own.*

Guard:: "Her Grace would have our heads if we allowed you to jaunt around town unprotected."

*Jean Louis sighed vowing to have a talk with his mistress and did his best to see to the blind man&#39;s comforts... And that of his Dog&#39;s...He was cleaned up and layed on a soft bed with some of the Castle healers stationed near to look after him... He then fed the Dog/wolf and gave him a good run in the court yard before leaving them in the care of Healers and guards to visit in on the Queen and ask that they be sanctuary until the attacker was found.*

[Jimbo]

Jerii could feel Quinn&#39;s palm pressing against his back faintly. He knew she was trying to touch Masamune. He didn&#39;t mind, it would be fun to have another person besides Jerii talking to the two spirits.

"Your telepathy takes some getting use to," Jerii smiled "I still get a little jumpy."

"We know he&#39;s a good kid, that would be the only reason he is able to wield this sword," Masa replied.

"What are you two talking about?" Jerii thought.

"Oh Quinn was able to tap into our link," Mune answered "Looks like she&#39;s more talented than we thought."

"Didn&#39;t you hear what she said?" Masa said.

"Sorta, I was busy thinking about some other things," Jerii thought back.

"Well it&#39;s nice to have a fourth wheel on this cart," Mune replied happily referring to Quinn "Guess if she focuses hard enough she can listen in on our conversations."

"Yup, so don&#39;t think any dirty thoughts," Masa laughed "Because she can probably overhear hear us now."

"All you need to do is keep your mouths shut," Jerii thought back.

"It&#39;s hard to stay quiet when you haven&#39;t had anyone to talk to in 200 years," Masa sighed.

"I thought you guys weren&#39;t that old," Jerii thought.

"Oh we&#39;re old Jerii, VERY old, good thing we died when we were at our prime, or else we&#39;d sound like old men." Masa explained.

"You said it brother," Mune replied.

Jerii was interupted from his little conversation when Quinn pointed over to the man next to the wolf. It looked as if he was unconscious, which surprised Jerii. He then watched as one of the Queen&#39;s pages informed the two about the Queen&#39;s Royal Tournament. His heart raced a little, knowing this could be his chance to impress his peers and of course, the newly crowned Queen. Even though the golden crowns sounded appealing, Jerii didn&#39;t find them too interesting. The weapon prize looked like a good catch, but then again, who needs another weapon when you have a magical talking sword.

"If I win the weapon prize, I guess I&#39;ll just return you two back to where I found you," Jerii thought.

"YOU WOULDN&#39;T&#33;" Masa and Mune screamed.

"Kidding, only kidding&#33;" Jerii chuckled "I wouldn&#39;t trade you guys for anything in the world."

"Phew," Masa and Mune sighed.

"But that whole ordeal about saving the Elves sounds like an adventure," Jerii thought "And plus it&#39;d be a great way to train outside of the Kingdom, I&#39;ve always wanted to explore the rest of the world."

"Now you&#39;re thinking," Masa replied "So what are you still doing in town, go back to the training grounds&#33;"

"We JUST got into town, I think we should at least grab something to eat," Jerii thought.

"Okay fill your stomach, but right after, you&#39;re going to work that fat off," Mune commanded.

"Yessir," Jerii thought sarcastically, rolling his eyes.

The three shared a short giggle before heading towards the tavern. Jerii waved over to Quinn, motioning her to follow him in.

"Let&#39;s grab some grub before we head back, my treat&#33;" Jerii smiled.

He looked around noticing the place was full of people. Jerii was able to find a table towards the corner of the tavern, with two chairs.

"Now it REALLY looks like you two are on a date," Mune laughed.

"Yeah why don&#39;t you two share a glass of water, I&#39;d say something more expensive but I think that&#39;s all you can afford." Masa joked.

"First of all, ITS NOT A DATE&#33;" Jerii yelled "Second, I just got some allowance from Master Gar, so money isn&#39;t really a big deal."

Jerii felt the side of his pocket feeling the gold coins in it. He then sat down on the table, and waited for Quinn&#39;s arrival, having thoughts about the upcoming tournament.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had been close at his heels after they had left the page since the page had left soon after telling them to help the blind man they had seen. She rubbed her temple even as she slid into the seat, green eyes shut for a moment before she opened her eyes to watch him for a moment,&#39;You three are loud in telepath. I don&#39;t even have to TRY to listen. I can hear you from miles away. Every other telepath whos stronger then me probably have head aches from you three if they tune in.

Even as she said it to them she finally turned her gaze away to hide the faint blush. She had heard nearly every word said. It seemed like after linking to Masa and Mune, her link was stronger and she could sense them easier.

Still rubbing her head gently, she looked up when the waitress came by to their table,"Just some water for me. Roman?"

She turned her gaze to him even as she sent a telepathic remark,&#39;I ate before the tornament so I&#39;m not hungry. Only need some water for me. Get what you want if your hungry. I don&#39;t need anything. And Masa, Mune, Don&#39;t bug him so much about things you two can see in him. I don&#39;t want to hear about it myself.

[Belisarius]

"Come ON, Nyle, wake up&#33; We&#39;re going to miss the whole festival if you don&#39;t get your lazy bones out of bed."

Nyle rubbed his eyes and looked back at Cedric. His brother&#39;s face was filled with anticipation.

After a moment, what the younger boy had said registered in his brain. The Festival&#33; It started today&#33; The older boys were probably already there, gobbling up Eld Meredydd&#39;s famous sweetcakes. Of course, Nyle had to control his urge to go running right out. He was twelve years old, he couldn&#39;t be seen getting excited over sweets like a kid. Plus, this was the first year that Cedric would be old enough to compete in the Games. Nyle had taught Cedric everything he knew about swordplay, and he simply *knew* that his little brother would win the juniors. Cedric was a natural, and he&#39;d grow up to be far, far better than Nyle...

Nyle awoke with a start, the last remnants of the dream still clouding his mind. He briefly struggled to open his eyes before reality came crashing down on him and he remembered what had happened.

As always, when he remembered Cedric, a pang of sadness threatened to overwhelm him, but he brushed it off. Cedric...Kira...Meadhbh...all of the people he&#39;d known back in Pendaran were lost to him, forever.

He felt, rather than heard, Wolf approaching. Well, at least his little buddy hadn&#39;t been separated from him. The important thing now, was to figure out where he was. The room smelled of opulence. Everything had a polished scent that reminded me of the times in his mercenary years when he&#39;d been hired on with a batch of guards for wealthy nobles.

"Aovarc Muadh&#33;" cursed Nyle in Pendari, "Where in the name of Nergal* am I?"

It was then that Nyle realized that he wasn&#39;t alone.

*OOC: Nergal, in this case, refers to Nyle&#39;s patron god, the Lord of War; Since I realize that Nergal comes from a commonly used source in Mesopotamian mythology, he may exist in Medeas Res as well--If this is the case, then Nyle&#39;s Nergal and the one in this world would not be the same. Nyle&#39;s invocation would not attract the attention of any deities, since it was intended to call upon Aiyon&#39;s Nergal.

OOC#2: Yes, I know, I&#39;m a bugger for insignificant detail.

[Jimbo]

Jerii laughed a little at the comments Quinn had made. He listened to what she ordered and felt a little guilty before ordering. Jerii then felt a rumble in his stomach. He smiled a little, feeling embarassed about the noise his stomach made.

"I&#39;ll have some water with some chicken," Jerii smiled.

"We aren&#39;t that loud are we?" Masa said.

"She sure told you guys," Jerii chuckled.

"Errrr...." Masa and Mune grunted "We&#39;re just respecting the ladies wishes."

"Sure," Jerii laughed.

"Okay okay, let&#39;s change the topic shall we?" Masa said sharply.

"Heh alright," Jerii replied.

"So the tournaments going to consist of two parts, jousting and battling," Jerii noted "I wonder if they&#39;ll be two seperate events, or interwoven."

Jerii then watched as the waiter returned with two glasses of water and a small roasted chicken. He set the items on the table and bowed to the two squires.

"You two enjoy the food," The waiter smiled "And by the way, you make a cute couple."

The waiter walked away before Jerii could give him an answer. He grit his teeth a little and then let out a small laugh.

"HAHAHAHA&#33;" Masa and Mune cried hysterically.

"Heh, that&#39;s kinda funny," Jerii chuckled "Oh well time to dig in."

Jerii then began to eat the chicken, feeling his hungry just dissappear.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn sipped some water, fighting off the blush. She was thankful at the moment that she could block her senses from them easily and that they couldn&#39;t feel what she was trying to cover. She tried to act as though the waiters comment ment nothing to her and spoke up when she was sure she could,"It&#39;ll probably be seperate parts. Easier that way then weaving it together."

She shruged slightly before grinning,"I see they listened to me. Not as loud. Better for my head."

She relaxed back in her chair, searching the tavern, taking in a small skirmish starting at a table near them and frowned slightly as she watched for a moment or two before looking to him,"Which part are you join to join in on? Jousting? Battling?"

She raised an eyebrow toward him,"I&#39;d probably do Jousting if we have to go for one. Probably not battling. I probably wouldn&#39;t do well there."

[Ayumi]

*After granting the blind man her page brought home sanctuary, Klea stood in her private chambers thoughtfully. There were many windows and the light was usually good during the day... Yet for all the warmth from Bright star she never felt colder for having to do what a monarch must do to rule.... Is this what it meant to be Queen? To give up so much of herself inorder to protect her Kingdom... If that is so then that is what she would do.
Sighing she runs her fingers over the crystal of the window watching the courtiers in her courtyard and the Kingdom beyond without really seeing them. She would and could get through this adjustment... She just prayed she had the time... In the middle of her thoughts enters a young guard his breathing labored from an quick paced run.*

"Your Majesty, a certain some...one... has come though the forbidden portals in the Atrium of Time..."

*The Guard gave the Queen a speaking look and Klea nods knowing just who it is. Graciously dismissing the Guard from her presence she makes haste to the one area she is sure he must be in.
Entering the Forbidden Library through a passage in the Atrium of time, The young Queen approaches a nondescript yet unmistakably familiar shape.
A Happy smile curling her mouth she embraces him warmly and presses a chaste kiss to his cheek whether he likes it or not.... And she knew it would probably be not.*

"Welcome home Ramarren."

[SGI]

Kain sits in his cell, throwing an odd loose rock in his cell. He chuckles shaking his head.

"So i&#39;m going to die huh? Well at least i&#39;ll be remebered for something. "Failed assasin of the Queen Klea of Medias Res" tsh... how embaressing."

[Ayumi]

*Rosy fingered Ios rose and slowly began her dance across the sky as the echoing footsteps of the Queen and her Entourage could be heard throughout the palace. The would go to the Tournament and Jousting grounds but first a short but important detour.
A darker place in the land there never was were she took them. The Execution grounds of Medias res... Where criminals Higher more dangerous criminals came to die led from the Pearl Obliesque to here. There was schedualed one execution today... One to loose his head on Tower Greene.
The Queen had risen before dawn her gift of foresight and inner vision leading her to rouse her ladies and gentlemen to make this errand. And so the stood watching the damned as he knelt over the shopping block with the Hooded executioner poised above him, gargantuan axe raised above with thunderous menace.*

"Halt&#33;&#33;&#33; Halt I say... All kneel in the presence of her Majesty the Queen&#33;"

*Jean Louis&#39; youthful voice creates a hush onto all those witnesses who are not in the Queen&#39;s entourage. ascending the steps the Young Monarch moves amongst all who kneel and towards the condemned Drow. Gazing at him with a face that of an Angel&#39;s her long locks streaming from under her elaborate crown, her dress rich and ceremonious... She pauses and smiles every so faintly and speaks with a delicate sotto voice, her tone as though they were simply having tea in her summer gardens and she, playing a benign host is offering him a second watercress and chive butter sandwich.*

"Just what would you do, you who are about to die, if you had a chance to redeem yourself? What would you offer? What would you sacrifice? What wouldn&#39;t you do.... If you had a chance to live?"

[SGI]

Kain raised an eyebrow, taking in a deep breath he chuckles.

"Why like any ambitious young man, I would take that chance and cling to it like a homeless man clings to that piece of bread he found while brutal young children kick at him like a football."

His expression was far from elegant, but this was not an elegant time to be in. He was about to die, and his companion, that anoying Drow, was found dead in his cell, his wrists slit, blood had been spewed all over his cell, the blood of which would take day to clean up.

He looks into the completely changed face. His eyes meeting hers.

"You seem... different, why do you ask these strange questions?"

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Nov 6 2003, 03:08 PM
Kain raised an eyebrow, taking in a deep breath he chuckles.

"Why like any ambitious young man, I would take that chance and cling to it like a homeless man clings to that piece of bread he found while brutal young children kick at him like a football."

His expression was far from elegant, but this was not an elegant time to be in. He was about to die, and his companion, that anoying Drow, was found dead in his cell, his wrists slit, blood had been spewed all over his cell, the blood of which would take day to clean up.

He looks into the completely changed face. His eyes meeting hers.

"You seem... different, why do you ask these strange questions?"
*The Queen&#39;s face so like that of an angel&#39;s blesses the condemned man with a smile.*

"I am asking all these "Strange questions" because I am offering you redemption in exchange for your lifelong service. If you offer, in the oath of blood and soul, a piece.... just a piece of your eternal spirit, I will make you a part of my entourage and your small mistake of trying to assassinate me will be all but forgotten. You then would have a privileged place at court and my protection.
Make your choice and choose wisely my friend...."

*falls silent then and watches him, her great grey eyes thoughtful and kind.*

[SGI]

Raising his chin, Kain chuckles. His eyes narrowing for a second he shakes his head. "Privilege and protection interest me little in such a bargain. Although saving my petty life is far more valuble a bargain. That is to say that such things would be quite a bonus. So, what is this oath, what am I swearing loyalty to?"

A chance to save his life, although he may be in service, perhaps it will give his pointless life some purpose. He did his best to think of it as a garunteed contract for life.

"It sounds quite interesting"

[Jimbo]

Jerii cleaned his plate, and sucked the bones dry. He didn&#39;t want to waste any scrap of food, because money was hard to come by, especially if you&#39;re just a squire. He then set aside the plate and put some gold coins on the table as payment for the meal, as well as a little extra for tip.

"That&#39;s not much of a tip," Masa noted.

"Good thing you tip AFTER you&#39;ve eaten, or else they&#39;d probably poisen your food," Mune laughed.

"Good point," Jerii chuckled "But if I tipped any higher I wouldn&#39;t have enough money to put into my savings."

"You have quite alot of money saved up," Mune said "But why are you saving it up for?"

"Just saving that&#39;s all," Jerii replied "I thought you were able to read my mind."

"Oh we can, it&#39;s just that we&#39;re too lazy to go pry open your memories right now," Masa said "Plus, if you hide something hard enough, it&#39;ll be really hard for us to track it down."

"Heh, well I&#39;m a pretty open guy," Jerii noted "But some things are best kept a secret."

Jerii did have a secret ambition other than becoming a knight, but he could wait a little while to pursue that goal. His mind was already cluttered with thoughts of the tournament.

"I think you&#39;d do great in the jousting division," Jerii commented "As for me, I&#39;m going to stick to what I know best, and that&#39;s fighting."

Jerii stretched his arms and legs before walking out the tavern.

"How bout we train a little more before the tournament starts," Jerii suggested "I think we got a little time left before we have to call it a day and head over to the barracks."

Jerii peered out the window seeing the sun just a whiles away from setting. He didn&#39;t know what the outcome of the tournament would be, but he would give it his all in order to impress the Queen.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Nov 6 2003, 05:11 PM
Raising his chin, Kain chuckles. His eyes narrowing for a second he shakes his head. "Privilege and protection interest me little in such a bargain. Although saving my petty life is far more valuble a bargain. That is to say that such things would be quite a bonus. So, what is this oath, what am I swearing loyalty to?"

A chance to save his life, although he may be in service, perhaps it will give his pointless life some purpose. He did his best to think of it as a garunteed contract for life.

"It sounds quite interesting"
*Her mouth curls into a wider smile and with a faint nod a flame of blue curls around her body and she takes out a crystal knife*

"It&#39;s really quite simple... You speak your true name and your intention to offer a piece of your soul.... Then I will take it and seal the bargain in a little blood... that is all... Come it is time."

[SGI]

Kain takes in a deep breath nodding. Looking to the queen he holds out his hand. “I, Kain Soma, swear my loyalty to Klea, Queen of Medias Res. I will swear my loyalty to serve her as long as life flows through my veins. I pledge this in body and soul.�

Holding out his palm forward he smirks adding. “I’m sure that is the sort of oath you mean, right?�

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Nov 6 2003, 05:29 PM
Kain takes in a deep breath nodding. Looking to the queen he holds out his hand. “I, Kain Soma, swear my loyalty to Klea, Queen of Medias Res. I will swear my loyalty to serve her as long as life flows through my veins. I pledge this in body and soul.�

Holding out his palms forward he smirks adding. “I’m sure that is the sort of oath you mean, right?�
*power swells up within her and washes over all around her and she ignores his remark and with a powerful and skillful movement slices Kain&#39;s hands with her knife. She presses his palms together and opens them and from him draws a part of his soul into the flames of her aura...

She watches as Kain shudders in shock... first from the loss of a part of his spirit and next from the flood of power... His skin heals instantly and with a wave of her small hand his chains fall from him.*

"Let&#39;s say we remove those... I need not chains to bind you to me anymore."

[SGI]

Crouching down for a moment Kain raises to his feet. Feeling somewhat strange, he feels almost like he’s hung over. Grabbing his head he shakes his head around almost shaking it off. He bows his head.

“Now that I am bound to you, what are you going to do with me.. m’lady?�

Reaching into his mouth he pulls out a tiny leather item, like a miniature sheath. The small piece of leather being no larger than a two front teeth, from it he pulls out the small razor blade, throwing them both over his shoulder he sighs.

“I guess that will be useless now. It is easier winning your freedom without killing people�

He could already feel the anger from the Queens loyal guards.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Nov 6 2003, 05:49 PM
Crouching down for a moment Kain raises to his feet. Feeling somewhat strange, he feels almost like he’s hung over. Grabbing his head he shakes his head around almost shaking it off. He bows his head.

“Now that I am bound to you, what are you going to do with me.. m’lady?�

Reaching into his mouth he pulls out a tiny leather item, like a miniature sheath. The small piece of leather being no larger than a two front teeth, from it he pulls out the small razor blade, throwing them both over his shoulder he sighs.

“I guess that will be useless now. It is easier winning your freedom without killing people�

He could already feel the anger from the Queens loyal guards.
*Klea laughs softly and ruffles Kain&#39;s hair like she would her Page.*

"I think I forgot to mention that if I die you will too...."

*After delivering this little bit of information she turns and becons her Loyal entourage of Guards, courtiers, bards, poeta and ladies alike...*

"Come my gentle companions... let&#39;s off to the Contest first to be paid entertainment and then a delectable banquet... The Day begins well."

*And with that the Queen pays the Executioner his due and teleports them all to their seats at the Jousting/ Tournament grounds*

[Cloud Strife]

OOC: i&#39;ve been gone so long i&#39;m lost on where i should say. i&#39;ve been gone three days. sorry everyone x.x;&#39;. Ayumi, I need to catch up so I might be a while that I might not be able to post a new part for me so bare with me please. ^_^ I&#39;ll post something about Cloud tomorrow. Promise. Thanks

"Your Highness, I have something to request...would it be best if Kain worked on the side of me? He misunderstood me with his anger..what do you think? Cloud asks in request.

[Behindthesmile]

Drion looked at the blue vial, “you sure this will work?� “it better be for the amount of money I’ll be paying for this.�, “Of course it will I’m not called the best potion maker for nothing.�, replied the magician “however since its only a potion it has a limited duration so use it wisely.� Drion held the vial in his hands one more time and said “Alright I’ll take it.� Walking out of the potion shop he can already hear the blaring of the trumpets and the roar of the crowd to start the official tourney. Walking towards the castle gates he quickly drank the vial, he quickly grimaced at the disgusting taste. “ well no pain no gain � he thought, “time to see of this works�. Approaching the castle guards he quickly spoke to them “it might be really depressing not to see or participate in the tourney isn’t it?� “Aye and I wanted to bet on the final match too� replied one of the guards. “So what did you guys do to deserve this instead of enjoying the tourney?� Drion asked, “We lost after casting lots� replied the other guard. “That must have really sucked, well I’ll do you guys a favour I’ll cast the bets for you.� Drion said. “You really gonna do that for us?� asked the guards expectantly. “Sure I will just give me the money and I’ll place the bet on for you guys and return the money after the tourney is over.� replied Drion. “Thanks a lot&#33;&#33;&#33;� said one of the guards and even shook his hands after handing him the money. “So its agreed after the tourney I’ll comeback and give the winnings to you.� Both guards nodded. “One more thing its better to place the bets earlier on better odds you know, whats the fastest way through the tourney grounds?� Drion asked. “Through the castle would be quickest, but we can’t let you in that way.�, replied the guard that shook his hand. “Well its your loss� Drion said, he fainted to walk the other way. “Wait&#33;, alright alright we’ll let you through time just don’t tell anyone.� Said the guard. “ Thanks� “ Suckers&#33;&#33; *chuckling*, guess the charm potion really did work � Drion thought as he walked through the castle gates.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn followed Jerii after having checked that the price was correct and add a little of her money to the tip as not to make anyone mad. As soon as they were outside and he spoke about training for the tornament she nodded,"Good idea. I best gather Arashi. Maybe we both help each other with the sections we limit talents at. My with my fighting and you were your jousting. That way, in case we do need either one, we can join in easily. How about it? I can help you to know how to safely joust and the correct aim as not to be tossed off your horse."

She grinned at him even as she led the way to the tornament ring to find her master had taken to talking with Master Gar. Both were leaning against the fence at the moment, Arashi pawing the ground beside them. The large horse seemed tense or bored and she glanced toward Jerii,"I better gather Arashi. He hasn&#39;t ever liked my master much if I&#39;m not around and he looks ready to bolt."

She broke into a run after saying so and slowed only slightly when she reached the fence to vault over it, whistling to Arashi, Master Hoshi looking up at her whistle, then to Arashi. Seeing the ears raise from being flat he released the reins quickly and upon being freed, the horse moved at once, galloping to Quinns side. She smiled at him when he reached her, catching the reins and rubbing his nose gently before leading him back toward her master, and Jeriis only a few paces away.

Master Hoshi spoke up when she reached them,"I hear theres a tornament thats going to start. Do you plan on joining Squire Quinn?"

Quinn inclined her head slightly,"Yes, Master Hoshi. I&#39;ll probably be joining jousting, that being my strong suit."

Hoshi shook a finger at her,"You should sign up for both. Work on fighting. Even if you lose in the fighting half, I&#39;m sure you&#39;ll do well in the jousting and get some lesson out of it."

Quinn rolled her eyes, leaning her head against Arashis neck,"I understand. and I&#39;ll see about it. Jerii and I were planning on getting a little practice in before going."

Hoshi nodded, winking toward Gar,"Just don&#39;t tire out Arashi. You&#39;ll need him for the joust."

Quinn laughed softly, rubbing her horses nose,"He has alot of energy. A few runs wont hurt him before the tornament."

She led Arashi to the gate and pushed it open, leading him out and over to Jerii,"Shall we go?"

[Ayumi]

*Klea sat amongst her favorites in a pavillion erected for the Royal use during the contests. She is resplendent today in a figure hugging gown of the finest scarlet velvet, stitched with real gold and pearls ....on her small hands are delicate silk gloves, her feet donn silk and velvet slippers with crystal heels which match her gown and her lovely locks are laced with pearls and priceless gemstones.
There is anticipation and excitement within the crowd just before the Contesting begins and in the lower circles vendors cry out about their wares of snacks and hot beverages to ward off the chill of early morning. The Finest knights who wish to compete ready themselves and more than ever the Queen is heavily guarded... Thus it would be the Full seasoned knights who would battle and joust first and afterwards the Younger trainees.
Everyone hummed with excitement as the experienced knights rode out to begin the competition.*

[Cloud Strife]

"I can&#39;t wait to train and compete." The anxious holy knight gleemed.
"I can finally prove myself to the beautiful queen..and be on my way to the road of victory and sucess for her."

[Belisarius]

Nyle thanked the attendant who had taken care of him and picked up his bastard sword and kotetsu.

"Come on, Wolf, let&#39;s be getting back on out of here," he said.

The attendant was amazed. "If you&#39;re blind, how did you find your stuff so fast."

Nyle grinned a wolfish grin. "There are five senses, my boy, and sight is only one of them. Since I lost it, sometimes I think it&#39;s the most useless one." Which was true, but the other 90% of the time, he really wished he could have his vision back.

The attendant smiled back. "Well, sight must have its uses, or you&#39;d know that I&#39;m a girl."

The grin faded from Nyle&#39;s face. "Terribly sorry."

"You should be."

"Well, you must admit, you do sound like a boy."

"I must admit nothing of the sort."

"Even just a little?"

"Good-bye, Mr...."

"Laochailan," supplied Nyle. "Nyle Laochailan."

Nyle wandered the palace halls mostly aimlessly, looking for the way out. He was quite at home in keeps and castles, but palaces meant mannered folk, and mannered folk didn&#39;t tend to appreciate mercenaries&#39; mannerisms.

He pushed open a random door and stuck his head in for a listen. He certainly got an earfull, as the air was filled with the sound of screams. It was the sort of scream Nyle had heard before, when younger. He knew to start running right away.

Wolf loped along behind Nyle as he fled, looking like he was enjoying himself. He should be, thought Nyle, how often does one get to see a blind man running from a women&#39;s dressing room pursued by angry young ladies?

Nyle ducked around a corner and flattened himself against a wall. He waited a slow count of thirty after his pursuit passed by, and started walking down a different corridor.

THUD. Nyle walked into something solid. He was sure it couldn&#39;t have been there just moments ago, as there had been no echo to warn him.

"Who put that wall there?" he complained.

"Who are you calling a wall, son? And why can&#39;t you watch where you&#39;re going?" came a gravelly voice.

"Mu&#39;adh klaar&#33;" cursed Nyle in Pendari. "I--"

At this point, the other man saw Nyle&#39;s eyes.

"Oh," he said, "My apologies. I was not aware of your affliction. I am Duke Grey."

"I got punched out in the street," muttered Nyle, "And some fool had me dragged into the palace to recover. I was just trying to find my way out."

"Ah, yes," laughed Grey. "But it would be wise to guard your tongue. That fool happens to be our Queen&#39;s Page."

Nyle muttered another stream of profanity under his breath. "I really need to be gone. Palaces aren&#39;t my style--Give me a place where I can have a drink and a gamble--"

"A gambling man, are you?" replied Grey. "I might be interested in a game, depending upon the color of your money."

Nyle reached into his pouch and pulled out a small handful of gold coins. He winced at the weight, remembering that in his youth, this would have been a fortune--and he wouldn&#39;t be able to access his bank accounts anymore.

Grey&#39;s eyes widened. "Ah, from beyond the Portals, are you? I&#39;ve never seen coin from outside of Medeas Res."

"Methinks it causes too much comment," muttered Nyle.

"I see you&#39;re a fighting man," said Grey. "Trinkets from before you lost your sight, or can you use those weapons."

Nyle&#39;s face went blank. "I can use them," he said seriously.

"Against this," said Grey, "I will wager an equal weight in Medeas Res coin that you wouldn&#39;t make it to the second round in the Tournament with your skills with that blade."

Nyle didn&#39;t let his inward grin of delight show on his face. If this fop wanted to underestimate him...it wouldn&#39;t be the first time he&#39;d taken money off of some lombard* for an easy job. "Done," he said.

"Excellent. Now all we have to do is get you entered, even though you&#39;re not a squire. Luckily, I know the Queen&#39;s Page, Jean Louis."

Nyle was tempted to ask, "You mean that fool who dragged me in," but thought better of it.

"We&#39;ll have to arrange a lunch with the Queen and use the cover to have a chat with him," continued Grey.

Nyle&#39;s face went ashen. "But wouldn&#39;t that sort of event be chock full of no-" Then he remembered that Grey was a duke. In his mind, he went through every single Pendari swear word he could think of, and then furiously tried to remember some of the Sinlarine expletives that Mederu had used back on Aiyon.

Then inspiration struck. "Yes, where can I meet you after you&#39;ve had this meal?"

Grey&#39;s voice didn&#39;t alter a hair. "Oh, it&#39;s no problem. You can come right along, as my guest."

Nyle had no swear words left. Puzzlement rolled over the link from Wolf, and he realized that his companion had felt the sudden surge of despair. He tried to give Wolf a reassuring pat on the head, but Wolf apparently thought he was being fed something and kept sniffing at Nyle&#39;s sleeves as though to find some sort of treat.

*LOMBARD = Lots Of Money But A Real Dickhead. Of course, most nobles are not familiar with this turn of phrase, hence its usefulness. It&#39;s sort of like the computer service technician&#39;s faithful old PEBKAC error: Problem Exists Between Keyboard And Chair

[SGI]

Kain watched the knights march out in silence, his eyes gazing slowly over each of them. Stopping at a certain knight, his eyes halt. A small grin forming on his face as he recognised the overinsistant Paladin within hem.

Standing among the bodyguards and queen he was near impossible to spot from the among the knights. He mutters quietly to himself.

"Well I guess this shall be interesting"

[Jimbo]

Jerii walked over towards Quinn and then put two fingers in his mouth. He made a sharp whistle and soon Knight Rider came trotting along towards the three. The horse let out a short neigh, happy to see his friend. Jerii hopped on Knight Rider&#39;s back and grabbed his reins.

"Since we&#39;ve got our horses why don&#39;t we practice on my jousting," Jerii smiled.

The two galloped towards the jousting grounds, now empty because the other squires were out doing their own business. Jerii grabbed a jousting stick, as well as Quinn. The two put on their respective helmets to insure their saftey while training.

"Alright, I have to remember to aim and to keep a steady pace," Jerii said to himself.

"Don&#39;t blink," Masa suggested.

"Don&#39;t hesistate as well," Mune replied "Confidence plays a major role to the outcome of jousting."

Jerii nodded his head and positioned himself in the basic jousting stance.

"Here goes nothing&#33;" Jerii exclaimed.

He galloped towards Quinn, keeping his eyes locked on his target. Quinn was ready as well, keeping your cool and not hesistating for a second. When the two met up in the middle, Jerii&#39;s jousting stick hit Quinn in the chest. Quinn however wasn&#39;t thrown off, but was hanging on the side of her horse, one foot in the stirrup. She took a deep breath before hopping back on the horse and making a U-turn to meet up with Jerii.

"You okay?" Jerii asked taking his helmet off.

"Next time knock me down," Quinn smiled taking her helmet off "The Queen would be more impressed with a knockdown, rather than a hit."

"Heh, I still don&#39;t have the kind of aim you have," Jerii smiled.

Quinn exchanged a few more pointers, trying to help Jerii as much as possible. When they were done they made their way to the training grounds for some combat sparring. Jerii figured sparring with each other would prove more effective than practicing on dummies.

"Just remember to put trust in your sword," Jerii explained.

"Now now don&#39;t be a hypocrite Jerii," Mune said.

"Yeah you still don&#39;t completely trust us," Masa scolded.

"Well if you guys would quit prying into my thoughts I&#39;d put a little more faith in you&#33;" Jerii thought.

The three shared a short laugh in their heads.

"Come on, I trust you guys with my life," Jerii thought smiling.

"We know," Masa and Mune answered.

"Okay, back to sparring," Jerii said.

The two fought each other, pausing only after one is able to land a critical blow to the other. Jerii and Quinn sparred with each other until they were satisfied with their results. Both squires learned an incredible amount of battle skills within a short amount of time.

"Well we better get some sleep before the tournament tommorrow," Jerii said wiping his forehead with sweat.

"Good night Quinn," Jerii smiled waving goodbye to his new friend.

"Bye Quinn" Masa and Mune replied.

Jerii gave a short yawn as walked into his dorms. He took off his boots and plopped on his bed. He closed his eyes and dreamt of tommorrow&#39;s events.

*The Next Day*

Jerii woke up early, ready to take one whatever challenges lie await in the tournament. He headed towards the washrooms to take a bath and get himself prepped up before the big event. Jerii put on his gear and then his necklace, kissing it quickly before tucking it in his shirt. He grabbed Masamune and strapped it on his back and made his way outside. People were already gathering inside the battle grounds, and many of the squires were waiting anxiously to fight. Jerii jogged towards the participatant&#39;s entrance, registering at the counter. He then waited patiently for Quinn hoping they could go and walk out to the arena together.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had already signed in and stood near by, dressed up in her stiffling armor, searching the crowds near her for any sign of Jerii. Arashi stood at his mistresses side and spotted Jerii first and gently tugged his reins from her slack fingers, troting over to where Jerii was waiting, gently closing his teeth on the boys hair, tugging before turning and slapping him with a tail, knickering softly and pawed the ground.
Meanwhile Quinn hadn&#39;t noticed yet, still searching other parts of the group of squires with gaze and telepath, searching for the aura she had connected to yesterday and finally sensed Masa and Munes before Jeriis, a slight smile curling her lips as she finally found Jeriis also,&#39;Good morning Jerii. Good morning Masa. Good morning Mune.

She turned even as she spoke in telepath to them and whistled to Arashi. The black horse released the hold he had taken on Jeriis hair once more to trot to her side. She smiled upward at the horse before heading to Jerii, tilting her head and smiling upward at him,"Have a good morning so far? Sure is stiffling in armor isn&#39;t it?"

Her cheeks looked slightly flushed from the heat of the morning and the heavy armor she wore.

[Ayumi]

*Now was the time... thought the Queen and she rose from her throne stepping forward. A Hush fell over the spectators and participants and all eyes turned upward towards her.*

"Hail and welcome.... May your lances be unwavering and your swords bring you great glory... May the best warrior be victorious&#33;"

*Jean Louis waves to the trumpeters who ply their art in signaling the start of the tournament/joust as all the court watches. After doing so the young boy notices the absence of Her Majesty&#39;s shawl and his brow furrows with worry... If she sat out in the morning air so laden with dew she could catch cold...
As much as Jean Louis wanted to see the begining of the competition his concern for his mistress&#39; well being over ruled that desire and he skipped along the long corridors to retrieve her shawl for her.*

[SGI]

Seeing Jean Louis leave the queen he smiled shaking his head. Looking to the queen he looked towards her. "That Jean Louis, if I did indeed get his name correct, having only caught it in distant conversations, is quite dedicated isn&#39;t he? I know you are capable of wiping your own nose aren&#39;t you, Lady Klea"

His smile, while having a wise cracking edge to it, was nothing like the cold, heartless sneer he tended to give many of the Queens knights and guards.

"Mind you, I do understand the dedication he shows to you."
Pausing for a momment he shrugged.
"I can see you&#39;re eager to see this joust, I myself am very eager to see what an uptight self righteous, loincloth licking paladin can do..."

[Cloud Strife]

"Jean Louis will be truthful to you for a long time your Majesty as will I too." Cloud smiled in honor of her. "My sword will be a barrier of protection for you and I will guard you with my life if I have to."
Cloud looked over at Kain. "I will follow him and watch over him too your majesty...I don&#39;t want to be a bother but let me help him as well. I want that as a request."
Cloud then kneels down and bows his head, while holding his sword shaft with his right hand in honor of her majesty.

[Keshadei]

She merely stayed in the gardens, raising her head just for a moment at the sounds coming from the competitionm grounds. For now, she decided to just stay here. Though soon, she may decide otherwise. With a small smile, she does decide to go into the woods nearby for a...bit of dinner. Tossing her long hair over her shoulder she lets herself grin, "I&#39;m sure I have time to hunt before the festivities are over.

[Behindthesmile]

Drion walked confidently through the corridors and finally made it to the queen’s room or atleast its supposed to be from the looks of it. About the size of a great hall in a manor, it has space enough to seat atleast a hundred people with space still inbetween. “ yes this is definitely it � and he set around looking at treasure boxes, what he saw was every thief’s dream come, true jewels perfectly cut and magnificent to behold that one can already buy a castle and still get money back. As Drion inspected a few jewels he heard the door opening behind him.

[Jimbo]

Jerii looked throughout the crowd, without any signs of Quinn. He suddenly felt a sharp tug coming from behind him. Something had taken hold of Jerii&#39;s hair and was pulling him around.

"Ahhh&#33;" Jerii thought "What the heck&#33;"

"Now would be a good time to draw your sword&#33;" Masa exclaimed.

Jerii reached for the hilt of Masamune when he caught a glimpse of Quinn. The grip had been released and Jerii quickly glanced behind him to noticed Arashi had been the one tugging him around.

"Morning&#33;" Jerii said breathing heavily,"I&#39;m guessing your horse has taking a liking to my hair."

"Morning Quinn," Masa and Mune replied after Quinn&#39;s telepathic messege "We wish both you and Jerii the best of luck."

Jerii noticed he had forgotten his horse as well. He put his two fingers to his lips and whistled as hard as he could. He then looked around for any signs of Knight Rider. Soon he saw a crowd dividing itself, Jerii knew Knight Rider was on his way. The horse let out a loud neigh before stopping in front of Quinn and his master. Jerii smiled and hugged Knight Rider&#39;s head.

"Today&#39;s our big day buddy&#33;" Jerii exclaimed "Let&#39;s show them what teamwork can do&#33;"

Knight Rider stood up on it&#39;s hind legs and neighed in agreement. Jerii then heard the Queen&#39;s voice. She gave some words of encouragement before the tournament would begin. He took her words in mind and wanted to give it his all in this tournament.

"Jerii&#33;" A voice called out from the crowd.

Jerii turned around to see Master Gar, along with Quinn&#39;s mentor waving to them from behind a crowd of squires.

"Good luck you two," Gar shouted "And give it your all&#33;"

Jerii gave a thumbs up to his mentor and then turned to Quinn.

"I guess they&#39;ve decided to start with the jousting first." Jerii replied "I just registered for both to check how I stand in both areas."

"Jerii Romen, please bring your horse to the jousting grounds, your will be going up first," The receptionist replied.

"Guess I better start off with a bang if I want to impress the Queen." Jerii said "Wish me luck."

Jerii then hopped on Knight Rider and the two trotted over to the Tournament Grounds. When he arrived Jerii was shocked to see the amount of people at the tournament. It was pretty much the entire kingdom packed into the stadium. The crowd&#39;s roar was tremendous, everyone having their own favorite combatant. Jerii peered across from the jousting area. He saw that his opponent wasn&#39;t anyone he really recognized. Jerii was a little hesistant, not being able to know how his opponent jousted like.

"Keep your cool," Mune advised "Just let it flow."

"You sound like we&#39;re meditating," Jerii thought.

"Well don&#39;t get so tense that you&#39;ll be as hard as a stone," Masa said "Be a little loose and adjust to your opponents positions."

"Remember to hit him hard," Mune noted.

"Sine you&#39;re first you have to make a good impression," Masa said "Now go get him&#33;"

Jerii nodded his head as he put on his helmet and grabbed his jousting stick from one of the people helping out with the tournament.

"The First Round of the Jousting Tournament," The announcer exclaimed "Jerii Romen versus Morry Woods."

The referee stood in the middle and looked both ways, checking to make sure both jousters were ready. He then raised his hands in the air, and waited for a moment. Jerii eased his shoulders and readied his lance. The referee then noddes his head and dropped his hands down. The two horses began to gallop at full speed. Jerii kept his eye on his opponent. He noticed that his upper-left shoulder was open. Jerii aimed his lance towards the area, making sure to cover up whatever Morry was aiming for. As the two clashed, Jerii caught a direct hit on his target, Morry couldn&#39;t follow through with his attack. Jerii&#39;s lance caught Morry before he could land his blow and soon he crashed on the ground, in defeat. Jerii pulled on Knight Rider&#39;s reigns and took off his helmet. The crowd roared for the victory of the young squire. Jerii hopped off his horse and ran towards Morry.

"Hey you okay?" Jerii asked helping him up.

"Yeah, nice hit," Morry replied still staggering a little bit.

Jerii slipped Morry&#39;s arm around his shoulder and the two walked back into the waiting room.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Behindthesmile@Nov 8 2003, 03:48 PM
Drion walked confidently through the corridors and finally made it to the queen’s room or atleast its supposed to be from the looks of it. About the size of a great hall in a manor, it has space enough to seat atleast a hundred people with space still inbetween. “ yes this is definitely it � and he set around looking at treasure boxes, what he saw was every thief’s dream come, true jewels perfectly cut and magnificent to behold that one can already buy a castle and still get money back. As Drion inspected a few jewels he heard the door opening behind him.
* Hurrying down the hall way, the young page goes to fetch his Mistress&#39; shawl, making haste both to not let her wait for some warmth and also so he doesn&#39;t miss too much of the joust.
Jean Louis turns the door knob and presses gently against the massive and elegant door to open it and steps in..... Seeing an absolute stranger in the Queen&#39;s chambers he freezes at first in suprise and then becomes indignant as he notices what the man has in his hands.*

"For shame sirrah&#33; Thieving from her gentle Majesty?&#33; Nay I will not allow it... You want those jewels you wretch? Come and fight me for them&#33;"

*Drawing his sword the Page steps foward poised for a fight.*

[Behindthesmile]

Both Drion and the young page looked at each other startled.


“For shame sirrah&#33; Thieving from her gentle Majesty?&#33; Nay I will not allow it... You want those jewels you wretch? Come and fight me for them&#33;"

*Drawing his sword the Page steps foward poised for a fight.*

Drion smirked as the boy tried to swiped the sword at him while dodging it. “ this boy is definitely inexperienced, it’ll be a shame to kill him �. As the boy lunged at him again, Drion sidestepped and knocked the boy unconscious using the jewel he was holding. “ I better hurry up I don’t want anymore unexpected visitors � Drion thought as he rummaged through the treasure as fast as he can.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Behindthesmile@Nov 8 2003, 06:39 PM
Both Drion and the young page looked at each other startled.


“For shame sirrah&#33; Thieving from her gentle Majesty?&#33; Nay I will not allow it... You want those jewels you wretch? Come and fight me for them&#33;"

*Drawing his sword the Page steps foward poised for a fight.*

Drion smirked as the boy tried to swiped the sword at him while dodging it. “ this boy is definitely inexperienced, it’ll be a shame to kill him �. As the boy lunged at him again, Drion sidestepped and knocked the boy unconscious using the jewel he was holding. “ I better hurry up I don’t want anymore unexpected visitors � Drion thought as he rummaged through the treasure as fast as he can.
*During the second joust of squires Klea suddenly holds her head and yelps... Fear curls within her heart as she senses the direction of the pain, knowing very well it was an empathic echo from her page. Rising swiftly she vanishes, fear for her favorite so great as to disreguard all concern for her own safety, and teleports to the location of Jean Louis immediately.
In her own bedchamber she spies the thief and her poor Jean Louis limply laying upon the floor... With a silence that would become the best of assassins she creeps quietly and cautiously towards the man and her page, sacred sword drawn and held expertly.*

[Behindthesmile]

Satisfied with his load Drion glances at the boy laying on the floor. “ Now what should I do with him? kill him on the spot to leave no witnesses? or the just leave him here� Drion opted for the latter still thinking why the sudden urge of compassion as he walked through the door, he’s done it before killing anyone who saw him ply his trade, its safer that way. He jerked to a halt all of a sudden, “ someones here, I didn’t hear anything. A fellow assassin? � Drion secured the pouch of jewels in his back and drew both his daggers in a defensive position. Each dagger was a foot and a half long, not long enough to be a short sword but has enough reach without the weight that might encumber his manuverability each sharp enough that the slightest touch can prick the finger yet durable enough to withstand an axe or mace. He slowly paced through the door alert.

[Ayumi]

*Listening to the Theif as he spares Jean Louis, she softens a little watching him move towards the door... But that didn&#39;t mean he would get away with her jewelery&#33;
Moving quickly, the young Queen takes off her silk slippers with their crystal heels and holding one in her hand ... Hurls it at the Theif hitting him squarely on the back of his head.*

"What say we make you work for your take.... hmm?"

*Smiling with wry humour and a frighteningly cool look in those stormy eyes she waits for him to speak.*

[Behindthesmile]

Drion having reached the door without attack thought that the assassin was not definitely targeting him and moved on his way when something suddenly hits him in the head. Looking at the item that hit him he was startled to see that it was a slipper “ good thing that the heel didn’t hit me � then the perpetrator of the hit spoke:


"What say we make you work for your take.... hmm?"

“ Damn&#33;&#33;&#33; It’s the queen, so she’s the one that I was sensing. What should I do I can&#39;t kill her, every thief and everyone else for that matter will go after my hide if the portals close. And I cant ran either she has the power to teleport that’s evident enough from the last assassination attempt, I know&#33;&#33;&#33; � smiling, Drion approaches the queen casually and says “ Hey queenie hows it going I happened to accidentally dropped by your room... take what do you mean take?� Drion looks at the pouch “Ohhhh these…. must have accidentally dropped by my pouch…. Here you go� handing the jewels back to the queen. “Oh my isn’t it getting late better to go home and eat some dinner, I’ll visit you some other time okay.� He turns around and started heading for the door. “ hope the charm potion still works �

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Behindthesmile@Nov 8 2003, 07:37 PM
Drion having reached the door without attack thought that the assassin was not definitely targeting him and moved on his way when something suddenly hits him in the head. Looking at the item that hit him he was startled to see that it was a slipper “ good thing that the heel didn’t hit me � then the perpetrator of the hit spoke:


"What say we make you work for your take.... hmm?"

“ Damn&#33;&#33;&#33; It’s the queen, so she’s the one that I was sensing. What should I do I can&#39;t kill her, every thief and everyone else for that matter will go after my hide if the portals close. And I cant ran either she has the power to teleport that’s evident enough from the last assassination attempt, I know&#33;&#33;&#33; � smiling, Drion approaches the queen casually and says “ Hey queenie hows it going I happened to accidentally dropped by your room... take what do you mean take?� Drion looks at the pouch “Ohhhh these…. must have accidentally dropped by my pouch…. Here you go� handing the jewels back to the queen. “Oh my isn’t it getting late better to go home and eat some dinner, I’ll visit you some other time okay.� He turns around and started heading for the door. “ hope the charm potion still works �
*Klea nearly laughs as she feels the lingering whiff of charm potion roll around her and disapate.... Shame he didn&#39;t do his homework, for if he had he would know she was immune to such enchantments... After teleporting the jewels back to her treasure box she smiles ande picks up her other slipper and hits him again.*

"Not a bad quality potion... But alas not good enough by far... Seems you will have to fight me after all.. Come then and pay the price for creeping into a Queen&#39;s private chamber."

*her eyes growing dark as she gathers energy she runs forward as though to tackle him and a split second before impact disappears and teleports behind the thief executing a playful shove so that he falls over... Laughing merrily she levitates him up and flings him across the room like a petulent child tossing her rag doll and watches as he lands on the plush couch.. concentrating many pillows, shoes, and small books fly at him and beat on him mercilessly... and as he feebly tries to beat them away she sends messages telepathically to her guards and keeps him busy until they arrive.
Once her loyal knights arrive however she does not allow them to drag him off to prison... instead she offers a pleased smile and gives a little white lie to the indignant warriors.*

"Do not take him off my most loyal knights... He after all was hired by me to test the security of this palace and obviously did a competent job. He is a ... eh... &#39;security expert&#39; and to be on retainer by me."

*Klea flashes her best &#39;you can trust me&#39; smile and watches as the guard&#39;s disbelief turns to embarassment at the breach in security. They nod and bow to the Theif in acknowlegement of him having gotten the better of them and prepare to escort the Queen back to the Joust.*

"Nay... Take my new friend to my pavillion .. I shall be there shortly. It seems my Jean Louis had a fall and needs some attention. I will be along anon."

*After they leave, escorting Drion, Klea presses a kiss to Jean Louis&#39; forehead healing him with love.

The page awakens and looks horrified at the Queen having to run and rescue him. Jean Louis begins to apologize and is gently hushed by a tearful Klea.*

"You are safe... You are whole... That is all that matters to me cousin. Jewels and material things can be replaced but you cannot be. To me, you are indispensable... Never risk yourself like that again&#33; Promise me."

*Nodding the page pledges to be more careful and in a blink of an eye is taken back to the Royal Pavillion where another joust begins... He does not ask why the thief is there but prudently decides to ask his mistress later when they can be alone.*

[Behindthesmile]

"Not a bad quality potion... But alas not good enough by far... Seems you will have to fight me after all.. Come then and pay the price for creeping into a Queen&#39;s private chamber."

*her eyes growing dark as she gathers energy she runs forward as though to tackle him and a split second before impact disappears and teleports behind the thief executing a playful shove so that he falls over... Laughing merrily she levitates him up and flings him across the room like a petulent child tossing her rag doll and watches as he lands on the plush couch.. concentrating many pillows, shoes, and small books fly at him and beat on him mercilessly...

“ Guess the potion didn’t work � she rushed him and he was startled when she teleported behind him shoving lightly. “ she’s just a brat after all � Drion thought as she threw everything at him “ might aswell play along�, as he was bombarded with practically everything he tried to avoid it or usually get the least amount of impact from the objects she flung at him. So he was still in good shape when the guards arrived. He was already contemplating escape from the guard which is much easier to get rid off than the queen when she spoke:


"Do not take him off my most loyal knights... He after all was hired by me to test the security of this palace and obviously did a competent job. He is a ... eh... &#39;security expert&#39; and to be on retainer by me."

*Klea flashes her best &#39;you can trust me&#39; smile and watches as the guard&#39;s disbelief turns to embarassment at the breach in security. They nod and bow to the Theif in acknowlegement of him having gotten the better of them and prepare to escort the Queen back to the Joust.*

Drion sighed already caught on what the queen was implying “this really sucks but it might be interesting at the same time � then as the guards were ready to escort her back... the queen said:


"Nay... Take my new friend to my pavillion .. I shall be there shortly. It seems my Jean Louis had a fall and needs some attention. I will be along anon."

“Uhmmm yeah… I’ll fill you guys in on the details about possible security breaches and stuff, just follow me.� With that done Drion and the guards left the queen’s room. After filling the rightful authorities on the everything encompassing security, Drion headed to the pavilion as he entered her majesty’s personal guards were startled to see him. Drion just grinned at them… scanning to each and everyone of them he saw the Drow and the Paladin from the inn… “Now this is very interesting’’ Drion thought smiling and then turned his attention to the joust at hand.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had been next up and upon seeing the reappearence of Her Majesty, bowed slightly in the Queens direction, rising slightly on Arashis back to do so, the squire she was facing following her example after a moment. She grinned slightly, settling her lance to rest at an angle over Arashis sholder in a position that wouldn&#39;t hit the horse if the lance was shoved aside. She gently pushed the stallion into a gallop as soon as the man in the center had given the signal, her opponent doing the same. She leveled her lance, aiming for the shield, point center, raising her shield and pushing up slightly to steady her weight as they got closer, her body settling into the movements of Arashi easily.

The crowd held its breath then the pair crashed, lances meeting shields but Quinns had had a little more force behind hers, her opponets slipping down and pushing her shield upward when they were shoved out of the saddle, hitting the ground pretty hard.

She let Arashi slow his run on his own accord, tugging off her helmet as she turned him to come up beside her opponent, leaning to hold out a hand, the other boy grasping it at once and let her help pull him up.

The roaring for a moment and clapping was to loud for the pair to say anything and just took their bows, Quinn staying on horse back and walking Arashi beside Sean Taper and his own horse, both moving to the waiting area where Jerii and Morry had gone. When Quinn could actually hear herself, she held out a hand,"GOod job Sean. Close call."

Sean chuckled but shook her hand easily enough,"I was just a little off. A direct hit and we would have both gone flying. I hope you do well."

Quinn nodded and gently tugged Arashi toward Jerii, grinning brightly at him holding a quick thumbs up.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Tora_No_Unmei@Nov 8 2003, 09:44 PM
Quinn had been next up and upon seeing the reappearence of Her Majesty, bowed slightly in the Queens direction, rising slightly on Arashis back to do so, the squire she was facing following her example after a moment. She grinned slightly, settling her lance to rest at an angle over Arashis sholder in a position that wouldn&#39;t hit the horse if the lance was shoved aside.&nbsp; She gently pushed the stallion into a gallop as soon as the man in the center had given the signal, her opponent doing the same. She leveled her lance, aiming for the shield, point center, raising her shield and pushing up slightly to steady her weight as they got closer, her body settling into the movements of Arashi easily.

The crowd held its breath then the pair crashed, lances meeting shields but Quinns had had a little more force behind hers, her opponets slipping down and pushing her shield upward when they were shoved out of the saddle, hitting the ground pretty hard.

She let Arashi slow his run on his own accord, tugging off her helmet as she turned him to come up beside her opponent, leaning to hold out a hand, the other boy grasping it at once and let her help pull him up.&nbsp;

The roaring for a moment and clapping was to loud for the pair to say anything and just took their bows, Quinn staying on horse back and walking Arashi beside Sean Taper and his own horse, both moving to the waiting area where Jerii and Morry had gone. When Quinn could actually hear herself, she held out a hand,"GOod job Sean. Close call."

Sean chuckled but shook her hand easily enough,"I was just a little off. A direct hit and we would have both gone flying. I hope you do well."

Quinn nodded and gently tugged Arashi toward Jerii, grinning brightly at him holding a quick thumbs up.
*resettling after laying ease to her courtiers, Klea continues to watch the jousting with great enjoyment... especially as a young female squire laid waste to one of her class mates. Applauding greatly she commanded her majordomo to tell her who she was*

"Who is that young lady?... The one that so swiftly defeated the other squire?"

*The Majordomo bows and smiles approvingly.*

"I believe the young lady goes by the name of Quinn... Hath you an interest milady? Shall I call her forward?"

*The Queen tilted her head thoughtfully*

There is something in the way she holds herself... Cautious, yet confident... Brave and bold but incredibly clever.... Aye she could make a good companion both for me and ... well... My Jean Louis needs to meet more of his own age I think. He never complains but I can see he could possibly be bored with court life alone and could use a friend who would teach him how to play a little casting away his habitual sobriety. She would make a very good friend for him.
Call her out for more applause My good man&#33; I shall pass to her a token to show my favor of her in this competition."

*He nods and sends a note to have Quinn reenter the arena... as soon as she does applause explodes again and rising the Queen levitates a hankerchief of scarlet embroidered with gold, stitched with pearls and the royal initials towards her. Nodding slightly she sends the token of royal favor into the squire&#39;s hands and smiles... Though Monarch and jouster are separated by ground and sky, the competitor can clearly see the admiration in the smile from the Queen standing in her elevated pavillion*

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had recieved the note before she had even had time to leave Arashis back and after reading she had been asked to reenter she shruged slightly to Jerii and turned Arashi, not thinking her legs would support her yet enough to walk, rode him back for the applause, bowing slightly and had raised her head in time to see the hankerchief of scarlet embroidered with gold, stitched with pearls and the royal initials coming toward her and slipping into her grip even as she raised her hand. Her gaze went at once to the Queen and she smiled in reply before rising herself on Arashis back enough to bow deeply and formally to the Queen before gently reigning the grey stallion back toward where she had been, thankful that she was able to turn away to hide the blush on her cheeks, holding the token gently as she rode one handed back to where the group stood and slid off when she was within a few steps of Jerii this time, nearly falling over her feet before she held up a hand so he could see the hakerchief, a dazed look still crossing her features.

[SGI]

Kain had relaxed a little, especially considering he had escaped execution, and was now basically owned by Queen Klea. He even began enjoying the tournament, and much like Queen Klea he was quite impressed with the performance by Quinn. He narrowed his eyes slightly, squinting from the suns beaming rays.

"I may have to coax that knight a little, mabye even test my skills against him."

Calmly smiling he arched his back a little.

"Besides the assasin always wins"

[Cloud Strife]

Walking right past Kain he noticed Kain talking about testing his skills against a knight. Cloud then looked back at Kain and smirked.
"Would you mean testing your skills against me?"
Cloud then put his hand on his sword shaft.
"I would love to test my skills against an assasin..what do you say?"

[Ayumi]

Seeing the tension between former assassin and Knight, Jean Louis clears his throat.*

"Sir Cloud.... I am surprised to see that you have not joined the field of tournament... Seeing as how you seem interested in combat... You may want to remove your hand from your hilt and spar with Kain later, considering how it is a little illegal to touch your weapon in the presence of the Queen let alone fight in such close proximity to her."

*The page smiles in that kind way of his and offers both Cloud and Kain some of the snacks he had gotten.*

[SGI]

Patting Jean Louis on the shoulder he takes one of the snacks and bites into it.

"He&#39;s got a point, you don&#39;t want to end up like me, and thats if you&#39;re lucky. The lesson learnt is don&#39;t *censored* with the royal family."

He smirked slightly hoping the profanity may work to at least anoy the perfectly holy and noble paladin.

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud looks over to Jean Louis as he said what he said.
"I appologize. I would like to enter the tournament. But I don&#39;t know where to sign up..would you mind showing me the way sir?" Cloud then removed his hand from the sword hilt and hesitated combat with Kain. "I appologize for my rudeness. And I will gladly accept your snacks&#33; I&#39;m huuungrry&#33;&#33;" Cloud then smiled in delight.

[Ayumi]

*Jean Louis gives some of his snacks to the Knight*

"The competition for the older knights finished a while ago... Now is the students... But perhaps you can participate in the exhibition rounds.
I do like a few sweets from time to time."

*The Queen chuckles and ruffles her page&#39;s hair gently.*

"You mean you like them often and everything else just as often... I don&#39;t know where you put all the food you eat Jean Louis...But then it seems you are a foot taller every time I blink.

*Jean Louis laughs and shrugs munching happily away on his treats.*

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud takes the snacks generously. "Your a kind fellow to tell me what to do. I&#39;d be more than glad to participate for the exhibition rounds..I would love to show off my skills I learned from my friend Zack from my world...so sign me up." Cloud said with honor.
"Sorry I was going to fight in Kain in front of you, your majesty. I hope you forgive me."

[Ayumi]

*Klea nods to Cloud smiling having not taken any offence and comfortably watches the arena hoping to see some skilled hand to hand combat from the students.*

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud walks near the arena and looks at the atmosphere.
"So I&#39;m to to battle in this kind of arena? I like it. I wonder who I will test my skills on. They better be prepared." Cloud said that in his head, but left a smirk on his face as he thought it.
"I wonder if me and Kain will duel. That will be a classic worth while...I hope he&#39;s prepared for me...as I&#39;m prepared for him."
Cloud then walked into the arena prepared for the matches that await him.

[Pretty Boy of Evil]

Ramarren

Daylight stings his eyes as he finally emerges from the guts of the palace. The midnight-cloaked man pulls his hood tighter over his face as he follows the delicious sound of crashing steel.

And what do we have here?

Oafs bludgeoning clods and snot-nosed children playing at combat.

And stands full of washed-up hags and painted girls.

Disgusted, Ramarren chances a glance at the queen, who presides over this spectacle.

She does what she must.

He turns to walk away, wondering what he is going to do with himself here, at least until he can plan another foray into the Atrium.

[Ayumi]

* Queen Klea watches patiently as the field is cleared for hand to hand combat.... Though her sences are absorbed by all around her she feels a brush of a familiar presence&#39;s aura along her consciousness.
Glancing around she spots a very nondescript, darkly cloaked figure and a tender smile curves her mouth. She could almost hear his snort of distain and her slender fingers curl on the arm rest of her throne in the royal pavillion, mirth touching her great grey eyes. Ever so softly so that no one else can hear she whispers...*

"Ah well... they can&#39;t all be you... can they Ramarren?"

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud notices a darkly cloaked figure watching the battlefield from far away, but then Cloud thinks to himself, "Maybe he will be my opponent..has he come to fight me? Maybe he&#39;s from this realm...would he match wits with me? I hope so."
Cloud unsheathes his blade at the presence who stalks the arena, and waves his hand provoking the dark presence to battle him.
"Come on...I want to see how powerful you really are when you spar." Cloud says confidently.

Cloud then notices the Queen and the Dark figure together somehow.

Then he just puts the blade back in his sheath and closes his eyes.
"Maybe it&#39;s not the time for me and him to spar. I&#39;ll look for other opponents for now. I&#39;ll make sure I&#39;m ready. His aura seems too powerful and out of line for a knight of my ranking. Maybe another day...he seems like someone who fights like...Sephiroth."

[Ayumi]

*Noticing Cloud stalk off sword in hand, Klea arches an eyebrow slightly concerned. Scanning the crowd she watches for the young knight and seeing him confront Ramarren with a grimace, now really worried for Cloud. She waves her hand slightly and the amulet she gave Cloud glows to warn him not to mess with Ramarren for his own safety.

Sighing with hope that Ramarren will just snort and walk off she watches the two men worriedly.*

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud notices Queen Klea wave and had already sheathed his blade not wanting to fight Ramarren. "If he decides to fight me even though I sheathed my blade only for him, then so be it. I&#39;ve been through these kind of predicaments before...in my realm."

Cloud then looks down at his amulet glowing.
"She&#39;s worried about me...about my safety. Then I won&#39;t spar with him even if he wants me too."

Cloud then walks out of the arena proudly.

"Thank you your majesty..I will see you again soon."

[Jimbo]

OOC: Sorry I was out and about for a while, special sorry for Tora for the stall. I had to help my grandmother with some errands, and do some stuff for school sorry again to everyone.

BIC: Jerii set Morry on a bench slowly, knowing he was still recovering from their match. He then smiled and gave Morry a pat on the shoulder as a sign of respect from one squire to another. He then watched as Quinn made her debut in the tournament. She beat her opponent with ease, and the crowd cheered in excitement.

"Looks like she won the crowd over," Masa noted.

"Yeah, that was a good hit," Jerii mumbled.

He shouted Quinn&#39;s name cheering her on. She came back inside the wait room, but was soon called back out, by the Queen herself, well a courier from the Queen.

"Wonder what this is about..." Mune hummed.

The Queen had dropped her hankerchief, and saw Quinn wave it in the air. He smiled and gave Quinn a thumbs up.

"Wow, the Queen must really take a liking towards Quinn, don&#39;t you think." Jerii whispered.

"Yeah, looks like someone is going to get knighted before you," Masa joked.

"Well if she does, that&#39;ll just make me try harder to prove myself to the kingdom," Jerii thought back.

Jerii then stretched out a bit before taking a seat on the bench next to Morry. The young squire fell asleep, Jerii didn&#39;t bother waking him up, he was already done with the tournament.

"My next opponent could be Quinn..." Jerii sighed.

"Well I&#39;m sure both of you are eager to win," Masa said.

"Make sure to give it your all," Mune advised "Because Quinn will not hold back even though you are friends."

"And she would hate you if you just let her win," Masa said.

Jerii nodded his head as he stood up to watch the rest of the matches. The first round was used to clean out all the weeds of the jousting tournament. Now there were only the few squires left, that actually have the potential to become true knights of Media Res. Jerii watched as the second round of the tournament began. As he watched the first bout he felt a cold chill down his spine.

"Did you feel that?" Jerii thought.

"You sensed it too huh," Masa replied "See your meditation paid off, you&#39;re able to detect energy traces."

"So what do you think it is..." Jerii thought "I know it&#39;s got bad intentions in mind."

Jerii watched as a squire, with long silver hair passed by him. He looked kind of like Jerii, only he had more confidence and had a sleeker build. Jerii felt the chill get stronger as he passed by. He could only conclude that he was the source of the evil presence he felt.

"You think he&#39;s the one," Jerii thought.

"Most likely..." Mune replied "Keep a close eye on him."

His sword dangled by his side, longer and thinner than the Masamune. The sword looked more of a kantana than a broad sword. Jerii was fixated on the sword, it was the first katana he had seen in a long time. The young squire turned around, giving Jerii a cold stare with his cold black eyes. Jerii held himself from jumping. The young squire made his way out to the arena where the crowd was cheering. His name was called to participate in the next round. Jerii walked up to the window to watch the fight.

"The next quarter finals match will be, Kenji Vicious versus Darby Higgs&#33;" The announcer proclaimed.

"Kenji...." Jerii thought "So that&#39;s his name."

Jerii watched the match with a little more attention, as Kenji mounted his horse. He was black like Knight Rider, only pure black, Knight Rider had that white stripe on his forehead that made him stand out. When the referee gave the signal, Kenji dashed forward with great speed. His opponent, Darby, had barely left the starting marker, when Kenji collided with him. Darby was sent across the field, grabbing his chest in pain.

"My word&#33;" Masa shouted "He has no mercy at all..."

"How did he get there so fast..." Mune thought.

Kenji got off his horse and gave a sort of arrogant snort at his fallen opponent. The crowd cheered, they had never seen such a quick match. Kenji walked back into the waiting room. The squires in the room tried to congradulate Kenji on the win, but he shrugged them off and stood in the corner of the room. He began to sink into deep thought, giving signs to others that he shouldn&#39;t be disturbed.

"That kid&#39;s trouble," Masa whispered "Big trouble..."

[Tora_No_Unmei]

After checking that Arashi would be alright with her training master, she finally settled against a wall of the room, sighing as she shifted in the thicker armor and rose to go out and speak once more with her master and when she retruned, she was dressed in the normal tunic and pants of the pant, reddish hair pulled back in a short ponytail to keep it out of her face, looking a little flushed still, the hankerchief now stored safely in one of Arashis saddle bags.

She took notice of the new man, having heard his competition while she had gone to meet with her master. Now she watched his stance for a moment before speaking toward the other three,&#39;Jerii, Masa, Mune. I know you guys must have sensed it. Somethings strange about that guy. Wonder if I can break his shell. We&#39;ll have to find out won&#39;t we.&#39;

She flashed a grin in Jeriis direction, leaning to fix her boots before staring purposfully toward Kenji, finally taking a spot at the wall about a step away from him, a few people watching her, others looking away as soon as she reached his side and she tilted her head,"Good Match. Didn&#39;t see it. But I heard what happened. Maybe we&#39;ll fight ne?"

She held out a hand toward the man, green-grey eyes sparking with her usual mischif,"Well? Shake on having a good fight? I might not win but you never know. I&#39;m good where it comes to jousting so I could win high enough to go head to head with Kenji Vicious."

She smiled and held her hand still, waiting.

[Belisarius]

Nyle heard Duke Grey&#39;s footstep behind him.

"Are you sure this is acceptable?" he asked.

"It seems," replied Grey, "that there was no time for formalities. This will have to do."

"If there&#39;s trouble over this, don&#39;t think I&#39;ll withhold your name."

Grey glanced over at the unconscious boy they&#39;d knocked out. "The boy will be well paid, I&#39;ll see to it."

"That&#39;s beside the point."

"You wouldn&#39;t be trying to weasel out of our bet, now would you, Mr. Laochailan?"

"The bet is on, your Excellence. Never fear. It just occurs to me there might be trouble over this."

"Let me handle the trouble," reassured Grey.

"What is the bo...I mean, my name again?" inquired Nyle

Grey glanced down at the lad&#39;s ID. "Nolan Cully," he replied.

"Sounds almost Pendari."

"You&#39;re a long way from home, Mr. Laochailan."

"I got used to it after a few month...s" Nyle trailed off as he counted up the days that had gone by. His thirty-third birthday had passed just days ago and he hadn&#39;t realized it. It had now been almost five years since he&#39;d been exiled from Pendaran.

Five years

Five years since he&#39;d seen his home, and Kira. Three since he&#39;d established himself in the south. Eight months since he&#39;d lost his sight, and seven months since he&#39;d met Wolf. Time was getting away on him.

"Right. Whatever. How soon can I get started on this?"

"You&#39;ve got three more matches in front of you, Mr. Laochailan. Take care you don&#39;t chicken out."

"Don&#39;t you worry, sir. I am ready and rearing to go."

Five years. How could it really have been five whole years?

[Jimbo]

Jerii watched intently as Quinn had offered her sign of friendship to Kenji. He leaned back, but was still catious as to what the actions of the stranger may be.

"You think it&#39;s a good idea to mess with a guy who won a jousting match in under five seconds..." Masa shuttered.

"I think Quinn knows what she&#39;s doing, besides he can&#39;t be that bad," Jerii responded.

Kenji stared at Jerii, giving the same cold stare moments ago. He then shifted his eyes back at Quinn&#39;s hand. He placed his hand on top of Quinn&#39;s and shifted it down slowly.

"Maybe," Kenji said in a monotone voice.

He then walked past Quinn and then eyed Jerii once more. Kenji then looked at the hilt of the Masamune, his eyes widened a bit, but he refraimed from making contract with Jerii.

"He went all googly eyed when he saw you guys," Jerii thought "You think he knows about you two?"

"Tough to say..." Mune replied "But that sword of his looks familar."

"Yeah, so you got that sort of nostalgic feeling as well brother," Masa said "I&#39;m sure everything will be clear soon."

Jerii shrugged as he waited for his name to be called.

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud stopped walking away from the arena.

"I have to stay..I&#39;m in the competition...who knows who I fight? I have to prove myself to the her highness anyways."

Cloud walked back and heard his name

"Cloud Strife come to the center of the arena for the exhibition match&#33;"

"Alright I will do this."

Cloud reached for his sword and held the shaft with his right hand.

But as soon as Cloud reached the middle of the arena, he saw a vision of Sephiroth in his head.

"Sephiroth...is alive?&#33; But how..."

Sephiroth then appeared in spirit.

"Cloud I have come for you. You will be disposed of soon. It will take me time to get to that realm...I will destroy all you love once again&#33;"

Cloud then looked at the spirit in angst.

"Oh no you don&#39;t..I&#39;ll be waiting..FOR YOU&#33;"

Cloud then slashed at the image and it blew away in wind type form.

"He&#39;s still alive..but how...I can&#39;t let him in this realm..not even in the presence of her majesty&#33; Her life will be in danger&#33; I need to find a way to get back to Midgar to destroy him for good..then I&#39;ll come back&#33;"

[Pretty Boy of Evil]

Ramarren

Worldlessly he watches Cloud come and go.

How...odd.

He might have spoken up had the impulsive warrior not been called to the arena. Clearly he isn&#39;t from around here. Or anywhere else Ramarren&#39;s been to.

There is nothing of an aura about the small traveler. His cloak is more dusty than mysterious, and there is nothing particularly dark or interesting about this wandered. He is an ordinary vagrant, clearly unfit for present fine company.

Silently he wanders off.

[Ayumi]

*watches Kenji&#39;s match with slight distaste... Her inner sight not trusting that young man at all, quietly she refuses to offer him a token of favor and instead watches the field for the knight she does favor.
Closing her eyes she whispers a spell sending good wishes and warm encouragement to Quinn and a feeling of greater courage and strength to her and the other jousters fighting Kenji... No she does not like him at all.
Her eyes still closed she attempts to link minds with Squire Quinn.*

"Wear the Token of favor tied to you somewhere... it will bring you luck.... and see if you can&#39;t cut him down to size&#33;

Smiling slightly she watches and she waits.

[Cloud Strife]

Cloud walks out of the arena in caution
"There must be a way to get to Midgar...but how?"
Cloud noticed a portal outside of the arena that glowed in the ground. But there were voices coming from it.
"Lifestream?&#33; Since when did Lifestream come to Medias Res?&#33;"
Cloud then jumped in the lifestream.

As soon as Cloud jumped in the lifestream, screams started coming up. So Cloud covered his ears.

"This is loud...very loud..the planet must be in danger....what? This planet is in danger...Sephiroth...ugh..the ancients...cetra...ugh..."

Cloud then went unconcious. As soon as he woke up, he arrived in the town of Centura. A stranger took care of him.

"Where am I...where&#39;s Sephiroth...where&#39;s her highness?&#33;" Cloud went aware.

The stranger just told him that he just soaked up on the shore...so he got him and brung him to the house.

"Where do I go to get back to the kingdom?"

The stranger just told him to go east..but to go through a mountain that had monsters in it.

"I&#39;m ready...thank you for your hospitality&#33;"

Cloud then ventured off into the mountains.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn shook out her hand after Kenji had gone past her and turned to go back to Jerii when she heard the Queens words,[b]I will My Lady. And thank you for the gift. [b/]

That now said. She moved back to where Jerii sat still, dropping to a crouch beside him, flexing her fingers slightly,&#39;Ahhh.. His handshake gave me chills.....Well......at least I heard his voice once. and I can slightly tell some of his strength through it. Hes gonna be a tough opponent. I can tell that. I&#39;m sure Masa and Mune sensed something. Their not dead brains, even if their spirits. You know him? He seemed to recognize you.&#39;

Whenever Quinn wasn&#39;t sure of things and couldn&#39;t place her words outloud with other people around, she reverted to telepath if she was able to connect with someone. Sometimes even without meaning to, through a touch she could connect with their minds for a moment but unless they had done telepath before with someone else, like Jerii and the spirits, she couldn&#39;t stay in contact with them without touching skin. For a split second, she had felt Kenji but only for a second of his hand on hers before he pulled away. The feeling left her chilled to the bone and she unconcious rubbed her hand and arm as though she were cold, even with the long shirt on.

[Cloud Strife]

As Cloud started venturing into the mountains he saw a light flash before his eyes.
A young lady was laying on the ground asleep.
"Who would this be..and why would she be hear?"
Cloud walked closer to the light and the girl.
"Tifa?&#33;"
Cloud ran over to her.
"How is Tifa in this realm? And when has she used daggers?"
Tifa awoke.
Tifa: "Cloud what are you doing? Where am I?"
Cloud: "You&#39;re in a new realm...the realm of Medias Res. I don&#39;t know how I got here either but her majesty needs the knights protection..and I&#39;m one of them. I was supposed to have an exhibition match at the tournament but Sephiroth&#39;s spirit came for me."
Tifa: *in confusion* "H-hey Cloud what are you talking about? Tournaments? Sephiroth? I thought you defeated Sephiroth 2 years ago&#33; How is he alive?"
Cloud: "I don&#39;t know. *rubs her face* all I know is that you&#39;re hear with me now..."
Tifa: *blush* "Oh Cloud..." *wraps arms around him* I&#39;ve missed you so...I&#39;m glad I&#39;m here with you now..."
Cloud: *smiles* "So where did you get those daggers? I thought you only used your fists as your weapons?"
Tifa: "Well you influenced me after you defeated Sephiroth 2 years ago to use weapons so I decided to give it a shot."
Cloud: "Thanks...we have to hurry back to the Kingdom through those mountains..their&#39;s supposed to be a bunch of monsters blocking our way...a stranger told me it would be a test of will....let&#39;s catch up on the past when we get back ok?"
Tifa: "Ok...let&#39;s go&#33;"

Cloud and Tifa entered the mountains.

[Jimbo]

"Thanks Quinn," Masa replied "But to tell you the truth, I think that Kenji guy was eyeballing us."

Jerii tightened his strap, feeling as though Kenji would take it in an instant. He never grew protective of his sword until now. Jerii tried to ease up a little feeling a close tension between himself and Kenji. Though, Kenji&#39;s sword intrigued Jerii as well, he wondered what kind of metal it was made of and how he handled his sword.

Kenji stood in the corner, with his hand on the hilt of his sword. He had no intent on pulling it out, because he knew he would have his chance in the exhibition matches.

The announcer had finally callen Jerii&#39;s name for the second round. He stretched out a bit and prepared to leave the waiting room.

"Wish me luck Quinn," Jerii smiled "By the way, nice accessory you got there."

Jerii stepped outside to the jousting area once more. He let out a whistle and out came Knight Rider from the sidelines. Jerii hopped onto his horse and grabbed his helmet and jousting stick.

"It will be Jerii Romen and Mack Hun, in the quarter finals of the Tournament." The announcer proclaimed.

"Looks like your opponent is a little shak," Mune concluded.

"Really?" Jerii said putting on his helmet.

He took a glance over at his opponent. Jerii could hear the clatter of armor coming from the young squire. He scratched his head, knowing that Jerii wasn&#39;t feared. He didn&#39;t look intimidating at all. Before the squire could calm himself, the referee started the match. Jerii began to slowly gallop, not going to fast. Mack didn&#39;t even lead the starting line, which concerned Jerii. Finally the squire put down his jousting stick and took off his helmet. Jerii immediately stopped Knight Rider, pulling on his reins. Mack got off his horse and ran out of the jousting arena, heading back into the barracks.

"What the...." Masa said.

The crowd began to laugh at the squire&#39;s cowardice.

"This isn&#39;t how I wanted to win," Jerii thought "Why did he forfeit."

Jerii got off Knight Rider and headed back into the waiting room. He watched as Kenji was smiling in his dark corner. Jerii tried to avoid eye contact with squire.

"He was a smart man," Kenji hissed "He knew that whoever won that bout will most likely joust me next."

Jerii&#39;s eyes widened, he knew that Kenji was right. His chances of facing Kenji in the semi-finals were as good as done.

"Guess we know why the kid ran away," Mune said "Maybe that was a smart move..."

"Hey I think I can take this guy down," Jerii thought back.

"Thinking and doing are two seperate things Jerii, but we have faith in your abilities," Masa said.

"Thanks," Jerii thought.

He took his seat next to Quinn and awaited for her match.

"Looks like everyone went except for you," Jerii replied "I&#39;m sure you&#39;ll make short work of your opponent."

[

[Ayumi]

*Klea watches the squire forfeit with some dismay and discourages her favorites from laughing at him. Her Great grey eyes filled with compassion she sends decides she will send the competitors who do not win a small consolation gift.
The Young Queen did know that the winner by default would be fencing the spooky squire and thoughtfully she whispers along Jerii&#39;s consciousness to fill him with confidence and strength.*

"He is not half the person you are young man. You give him a beating he won&#39;t soon forget&#33;&#33;&#33; You have it in you..... Fear nothing, act with honor and you cannot be touched.

*She delicately folds her hands and smiles confidently.*

[SGI]

Kain looked to the jousts with mild interest. Being more the fan of sword duels, the more toe to toe guts and glory type of fighting over mere horses. ON top of that, the idea of jousting seemed to him to be a game for rich knights from priviliged families rather than actual combat.

Seeing Kleas dismay at the forefiting young squire he smirked sharply. "The young one was wise, it is most certainly true warrior instinct not to start a fight you know you cannot win. I have a feeling he may become a very effective warrior, perhaps in the near future he may be in your court, you highness?"

[Jimbo]

Jerii was a little startled, hearing the Queen&#39;s voice. He was surprised she even bothered to encourage Jerii.

"Looks like the Queen didn&#39;t ignore you after all," Masa said.

"Yeah, kinda brings back memories huh brother?" Mune replied.

"Sure does..." Masa sighed.

"Thanks I&#39;ll do my best," Jerii thought hoping that the Queen would pick up his thoughts.

He then shifted his eyes on Kenji. The young squire snapped his eyes back at Jerii&#39;s. Kenji gave a sort of smirk, as Jerii turned around, still a little startled at how calm he was.

"What were you two talking about, memories?" Jerii thought.

"We&#39;ll tell you some other time," Mune said "Besides you got a mean looking squire to worry about."

"Yeah, you&#39;re right," Jerii responded.

"There&#39;s just something about that kid I can&#39;t pinpoint," Masa growled "And that sword of his......it always gives me that strange nostalgic feeling..."

"I can relate brother," Mune said "I don&#39;t know why we can&#39;t figure this character out."

Jerii tried to calm his nerves, making sure to relax before the semi-final rounds. Even if they fought each other in the next round, it wouldn&#39;t compare to a real exhibition bout. He wanted to get the jousting out of the way and get into the real soul of the tournament, the fighting.

Kenji stayed close to his corner, making sure no one would dare come near him. Even though he was an aspiring squire, he knew that his actions would never get him knighted. Kenji had his own way of doing things, and didn&#39;t like taking orders from those weaker than him. He kept a steady hand on the hilt of his sword, looking as if his mind was wandering. The expression of his face changed from time to time, as if he were talking to himself.

Jerii didn&#39;t know whether he was giving himself some pep-talk or he was just insane. He tried to avoid direct eye contact, but kept his sites on Kenji.

"What could be going through the mind of that kid," Masa whispered.

"I don&#39;t know....and I don&#39;t think I want to know," Jerii replied.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn Seirei verses Taru Shinrai.

Quinn glanced up when she heard her name called and smirked, rising,"Better go."

She reached over to clasp Jerii on the sholder,"We&#39;ll see who survives this match. Maybe I&#39;ll fight you ne?"

She winked and turned to head out, making a slight, waving motion toward Kenji also, smirking in his direction before ducking out the door. The armor she wore was alot simpler for these matches. She was going to wait for the higher rank match to wear her nicer armor. So it didn&#39;t take her much time to meet up with her training master and pull on the armor, remembering to also add the gift from the Queen. She was able to figure out a way to tuck it into a joint in the armor so it was in clear view and slid up on Arashi before her master handed over jousting stick and shield.

She rode into the ring after a moment, troting Arashi gently to get him settled into moving once more before moving into place, lowering her jousting stick into position after waving toward Queen Klea, smiling before she lowered the helm. It was like a normal knight jousting when in truth it was a Squire. And a female at that. But her opponent didn&#39;t know that since he probably didn&#39;t know her name.

She watched as Taru moved into position. His whole stature told that he believed that he would win, struting, head held high even with the bulky fancy armor. She released a slight groan, shaking out her arms. That would be a hefty weight to lift.

Finally the trumpet sounded when they were both in position. The stallion across from her bared down on the squire and Arashi, the other squire raising himself to aim. They both hit and Quinn tried to slip her jousting stick under the shield as she had been taught as a trick but it surprised her when instead the jousting sticks on both sides snapped before they could put to much pressure to pushing the other. She brought Arashi to a careful U turn after passing Taru, shifting her weight and rode back to her side, shaking out her shield arm. He&#39;d had alot of force behind his strike and her arm felt nearly numbed for a moment but she kept on since she knew she could take it.

She gathered up another jousting stick at her side, turning to find Taru was ready to begin once more. Shaking herself once more, she moved Arashi into position and made the ready motion before resettling her grip. She hardly noticed the crowd seemed to have fallen deathly silent, concentrating fully on Taru and his motions, checking for a weakness but found none at the moment.

The trumpet called once more and again they were tearing down the path to meet. This time when they clashed, the jousting sticks held and Quinn was able to slip hers under the shield and jerk upward. Her motion led to an unintended result though.

As Taru flew from the saddle, his jousting stick, which had nearly slipped under her shield, cracked Arashi across the head beside an ear.
The startled, normally calm, horse let out a loud neigh, rearing off his front feet, twisting to get away from the cause of pain.

Quinn released an undignified yelp, grasping the reins as gently as she could as to stay on. It ment dropping the jousting stick and shield but she did so anyway to try and calm her horse.

For a long time he was wild with the pain ringing through his head before finally, with some soothing words from his owner, gently settled down and Quinn slid off, pulling his head down gently to check the hit spot, growling low as she searched. But low enough that Arashi would know she was not mad at him. She found no damage from the looks of it, just pain from the strike and turned, grasping his reins, gently leading him away without a word toward Taru who hardly seemed to notice. He was cursing fluently about losing and she ignored it, taking Arashi back to her training master for him to check the horses head. He also found no damage and the stallion seemed in better moods then before when he had been struck. Her training master gave her an order to take off the armor and go cool down, he&#39;d see to what happened. He didn&#39;t want her doing it since she was already in a flaming mood. She was like that if anyone hurt anything of hers. They had hurt her pal, Arashi.

She finally pulled off the armor, keeping the handkerchife with her and strolled back into the waiting room, flopping onto a bench with a growl. If Jerii or the spirits could hear what she was thinking, she was silently seething and cursing Taru Shinrai in her mind for hurting Arashi then not caring.

[Ayumi]

*Klea winces as she sees Quinn&#39;s horse injured during the joust and frowns indignantly at the person responsible. Shaking her head she declares Quinn the winner of the match which is instantly announced all throughout the arena.With a graceful turn of her hand a delicate shower of rosepetals flutters over Quinn and her horse healing any soreness and ridding them of any exhaustion. Nodding with satisfaction she takes the tree treasure candy from Jean Louis and prepares to watch the next round.

[Belisarius]

OOC: Is that my segue?

[Keshadei]

OOC : Guess who got her connection back... :ph34r:

BIC :

After a long, albeit frustrating hunt, Keshadei finally returns from the more wooded areas. She hesitates in her path towards the gardens she had previously left as she hears again the shouting and noise coming again from the tournament. With a slight tilt of her head, she gives in to her curiosity and makes her way towards the grounds. Though she tries her best to blend in with the large crowd in attendence, her marble white skin unfortunately gives her away to any who might be scanning the people out of boredom. With a shrug of her shoulder towards the men trying to catch her attention, she mentally wills the people before her to step out of her path which allows her to easily slip towards the front of the crowd for a better view. She leans against the rail which keeps the crowds at check, a bored expression to her face as she watches the matches.

[Jimbo]

OOC: Nice post Tora, I see you used my suggestion :P

BIC: Jerii watched Quinn&#39;s match through the window of the waiting room. He noticed that both squires had to restart due to a draw in the first round.

"Wow, very nice," Mune noted "It&#39;s rare to see a draw in a jousting match."

Jerii continued to watch the match, as Quinn defeated her opponent. The match wasn&#39;t an easy win, and Quinn&#39;s horse Arashi took the toll of the match. Jerii was ready to head out the door when Masa and Mune interupted his action.

"There&#39;s no need for that," Masa replied.

"But Quinn could get hurt," Jerii snapped back.

"Do you really think Quinn&#39;s horse would harm her?" Mune said "She can handle it."

Jerii slowly made his way back to the bench where he was sitting previosly, understanding the advice he was given. He watched as Quinn entered the waiting room.

"Nice match Quinn," Jerii smiled standing up to give Quinn a thumbs up.

"Oh my, she doesn&#39;t look too happy," Masa whispered.

"And she doesn&#39;t feel too happy either," Mune added.

"I saw what happened, Arashi is alright now right?" Jerii asked, concerned for the well being of his friend and her steed.

Kenji watched through the corner of his eye, the events happening in the waiting room. He crossed his arms and turned away from Jerii and Quinn. His cold expression showed that he didn&#39;t want anything to do with anyone in the room.

"That Jerii kid, I&#39;m getting a strange reading from him," Kenji thought "And his sword, I can feel the presence of those spirits, Masa and Mune correct."

"Your intuition is correct Kenji," A voice hissed, only to be heard by Kenji&#39;s mind alone.

"Why don&#39;t you spy on them?" Kenji thought "You can tap into their spiritual link, we can make sure that this is The Masamune."

"Too risky," The voice said "If I tap into their link, they will tap into ours blowing our cover, we&#39;ll make ourselves known soon."

"Fine," Kenji answered "But remember we do things my way."

"It&#39;s always YOUR way..." The voice snapped.

"Just reminding you," Kenji said.

He gave a smirk keeping one hand on the hilt of his sword.

Jerii watched as the second round came to a close. Now the semi-finals were next, and it was down to only four competitors. The jousting tournament only had Jerii, Quinn, Kenji, and a squire known as Drak Burnes. Obvoiusly Jerii was concerned for Quinn and the well being of her horse, and he didn&#39;t know anything about his other two opponents. Jerii knew that Kenji would make short work of whoever he faced next, and Quinn had a spirit that couldn&#39;t be broken. Jerii glanced towards Quinn, and then out the window where the entire kingdom sat eager for the next round of jousting. He then looked at the Queen and her royal guards, Jerii knew that that was where he wanted to be in the future, but in order to get anywhere near that spot, he&#39;d have to go through this tournament with everything he&#39;s got.

"Even if I lose at the semis, or the finals, there&#39;s still the exhibition matches," Jerii thought "And that&#39;s where my calling is."

"Right, but don&#39;t have that mind set of losing," Mune replied "Even though the exhibitions can be your second chance, you&#39;ve made it pretty far in the jousting, and you shouldn&#39;t waste this chance to win it."

"Don&#39;t let Kenji intimidate you," Masa advised "And remember, the Queen believes in both you and Quinn so that should give you the upper hand."

"Thanks," Jerii said "Alright, let&#39;s hope we get a good opponent in the next round."

[Princess Mononoke]

Shadarii sat quietly a couple seats down from the queen. She had just seen the queen send rose petals flying through the air to heal the just injured horse. She glanced over at the queen, very proud looking. The queen is very powerful, she thought. Perhaps we dont need a tournament for warriors, she could do all the dirty buisness herself&#33; ... but she is the queen and I am sure she should rest sometime...
Shadarii&#39;s eyes and mind then went back to the jousting match at hand...

[Cloud Strife]

Quickly Cloud and Tifa rush towards the mountains to get past it and back to the tournament. As Cloud and Tifa rush into the mountain layer, they encounter two harpies blocking the way.

"hahaha...humans..you&#39;re so pathetic....you think you can beat us? try it"

Cloud pulled out his blade and rushed and attacked the harpies quickly disposing of them.

"Well that was easy don&#39;t you think Tifa? I thought it was going to be harder than i expected..."

Tifa: "well..yeah. you&#39;ve improved Cloud."

They rushed out of the mountains and back into the kingdom where Cloud will face his challenge.

Announcer: Well I see Cloud is back. Welcome back. Are you ready to face your opponent? He looks like a warrior from a distant planet...he says he&#39;s been waiting for you for a long time. His name is...Zack.

"&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;?&#33;??&#33;?&#33;?? WHAT?&#33;" Tifa and Cloud said in shock

Zack walked out the backroom and into the arena. Zack now has green eyes like Cloud and has a scar on his cheek. Zack pulls out his sword and readies himself.

"Zack? You&#39;re alive...?&#33;"

Zack: Yeah alive..but alive enough to take an order from my new master&#33; And that order is...to kill you&#33;

Cloud readies himself as well.

"Sephiroth?&#33;"

Cloud waits in anticipation for the duel.

[Lord Kanti]

Krys watched the current match, his eyes darting back and forth as each of the warriors fought each other. Like usual, his face was hidden from others by the hooded cloak he always wore. He too was a fighter, but unlike most the others, he wasn&#39;t here to fight, he was here to study. It had been a very long time since he had had a break from being a mercenary and all he could think of doing was to learn a few new things.

[Cloud Strife]

Zack: Hehehe...yes me Cloud. You answered correctly. I brought this one back from the dead to take care of my deeds...my evilness..he was more dependable then a failure clone like you.

"What do you plan on doing that is so evil?&#33;"

Zack: I plan on summoning meteor on this planet...like I did to midgar&#33; This planet will be nothing but a heap of garbage...and you won&#39;t stop me this time&#33; Unless you want to kill this body..then I&#39;ll just go onto another one&#33; Ready yourself Cloud..cuz he will kill you...HAHAHAA.

"Oh no you don&#39;t&#33;"

Cloud and Zack rush at each other with their blades in hand.

[Ayumi]

OOC: Cloud&#39;s Adventure has been moved into it&#39;s own thread :) Everyone involved can find it on the RPG Board... Now on with the Joust&#33;

[Jimbo]

Jerii watched as the ceremonies concluded, introducing the semi-final rounds. He then waited eagerly by the window, awaiting for the first match to be called.

"Calm down," Masa said "We know you want Kenji to be your next opponent."

"It&#39;s good to know you have a fighting spirit," Mune replied "But remember, in life there will always be someone better than you."

"That&#39;s what makes it exciting," Jerii thought.

The announcer stood at the middle of the field, ready to proclaim the next round.

"For our semi-final match, in the Royal Joust will be...." The announcer said with anticipation "Jerii Romen and Kenji Vicious."

Jerii pushed himself away from the window, psyching himself up for his next match. This would be a true test of skill for him. After seeing what Kenji was capable of Jerii was even more eager to go against him.

Kenji watched Jerii, he knew that Jerii was excited about the match-up. He got up from against the wall, his hand still placed on the hilt of his sword. Kenji looked at Quinn giving a short smile, then turning towards the door. Before leaving Kenji looked at Jerii, his eyes beaming at the Masamune, and then towards his eyes.

"Let&#39;s go," Kenji said.

He then made his way towards the jousting arena, his horse already on his side.

"Hurry up before they think you chickened out&#33;" Mune screamed.

Jerii rushed out the door, whistling for Knight Rider to come towards the field. He hopped on Knight Rider, grabbing his jousting stick. Jerii placed his helmet on his head and adjusted his armor making sure everything was perfect. Kenji refused to wear his helmet, he smiled taking his jousting stick in his hand, adjusting it so that it aimed straight for Jerii&#39;s heart. The referee looked both ways to make sure the combantants were ready. Jerii nodded his head, as did Kenji, confirming that they were ready. The referee raised his hand in the air, hankerchief in hand. He then dropped it, and instantly the two raced towards each other. It seemed that Jerii was able to keep up with Kenji&#39;s speed, and the two would have a fair shot at each other. Before their jousting sticks met one another, Kenji dropped his lance and jumped off his horse. He leaped forward, with his right arm extended towards the side. Jerii was going too fast to stop, before Kenji clothslined Jerii on his neck. Jerii fell backwards hitting his head with a hard thud on the ground. Kenji landed on his feet a smirk on his face. The referee immediately disqualified Kenji for leaving his steed, and not using his jousting stick to knock down Jerii.

"This isn&#39;t the proper arena for two warriors such as ourselves to fight," Kenji muttered.

Jerii was still in pain, clasping his hands on his head.

"Rest up, you&#39;ll need it when we face each other in the exhibition tournament," Kenji smiled.

He then walked back towards the waiting room. As he entered he looked at Quinn his eyes meeting hers.

"You might want to help your friend," Kenji said.

He then made his way to his dark corner and awaited the conclusion of the jousting tournament. The outcome didn&#39;t matter to him, Kenji knew that true warriors fought against each other one on one, without the help of a horse. He preferred a fight than a joust any day.

Jerii was able to get to his feet, keeping his left hand to rub the back of his head. The announcer declared Jerii the winner, although the crowd wasn&#39;t very pleased with the match.

"You took quite a hit there," Masa said "Now why did he do that..."

"He probably wants to encounter Jerii in the exhibitions, rather than jousting," Mune suggested "It makes things more dramatic."

"I suppose," Masa thought "But you should rest up Jerii, you&#39;re quite handicapped in your next match."

Jerii nodded his head as he stumbled into the waiting room. He looked at Quinn still at little shaken. He then made his way to the bench where they were sitting. He leaned his head against the wall gently, closing his eyes and conserving his energy.

"Good luck Quinn," Jerii huffed.

He then began to breath slowly and catch his breath. Jerii was preparing himself for the finals, but was still recovering from that blow from Kenji. Jerii didn&#39;t mind, he would use this built up aggression in the exhibitions and would show Kenji that he made a big mistake DQ&#39;ing himself.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had been watching Kenji as soon as he came in, her green eyes narrowed at his words and looked up, when Jerii entered, half on her feet and searched him carefully sighing and grabed his hand, gently tugging him up,&#39;Go out. I need a word with that idiot.

Even as she told him so in telepath she said outloud,"Go to the healers. Get fixed up Jerii. If I&#39;m fighting you I want you at full strength."

She propelled the other boy to the door and glared at the other squire Drak, until he quickly scuttled out and gently shoved Jerii out after him,&#39;GO&#33;&#39;

It was a mental order to Jerii and as soon as he left she pulled the door shut most of the way behind herself and turned to glare at Kenji, green eyes narrowed and started forward. She continued moving until she was nearly directly infront of him and glared straight into his face,"Cheap trick."

She reahced out suddenly to clasp around his neck and pin him backwards slightly against the wall, squeezing even as she shoved a mental touch, much like a mental slap before she followed through with a real slap,"NEVER try it again while I&#39;m around Vicious."

She pinned him there for only a moment or two longer before releasing and stepping back, turning on her heel, moving to a seat without another word to start to sit. Even as she did the announcement came up,"Next Match. Quinn Seirei vs. Drak Burnes."

She glanced up but didn&#39;t make a move to rise for a moment.

[Ayumi]

*Klea watched in horror as Jerii was knocked from his horse in an illegal move. Great grey eyes darkening with power her slender fingers twitch and she projects an astral form of herself down to the Healing tent.
The Head healer and her assistants all bow to the image of the Queen who gives a dignified nod before moving to the Cot which contains Jerii. The Head Healer had just passed a spell of Minor Healing sleep on him and thus he lay unconscious on the makeshift bed as harm is melted away from his body. He will awaken when the healing is complete.
Moving foward, Klea sits on the cot with him whispering a quiet spell to accelerate the process and brushes a gentle hand over the Young Squire&#39;s hair instantly closing any cuts and soothing away his pain and concussion. Peering over at the sword the Young Monarch smiles enigmatically sencing the spirits within and softly huffs a little breath bolstering the courage of Masa and Mune before tucking the blankets around Jerii.
Finally, she rises and vanishes just as Jerii begins to open his eyes, her eyelashes fluttering slightly as she re-enters her body. Smoke swirls in those eyes of hers as she gazes, searching the crowd for Kenji and she reaches out again a small cloud forming filled with wrath ready to strike when Jean Louis touches her delicate wrist whispering to her that Jerii and Quinn wouldn&#39;t want that much interference and that she should let them prove themselves to their trainers.
Klea folds her lips together for a moment and then nods pressing a kiss to Jean Louis&#39; Fingers.*

"Let you always be at least one set of the eyes from which a Queen needs to see."

Settling back she falls silent and sets watch on Quinn&#39;s next match.

[Jimbo]

Jerii could faintly hear Quinn&#39;s commands before he was rushed towards the healing cot. He tried his best to fight the pain running through his body, but finally he gave in, falling unconscious. Jerii dreamt of an angel helping him up from his feet, giving him words of encouragement. Soon Jerii awakened, feeling his body rejuvenated. He stood up, wondering if the angel in his dream was real.

"Thank you," Jerii said bowing to the healers in the tent.

They returned the bow, happy to see another successfull recovery.

"Don&#39;t thank us lad, you should be sending your thanks to the Queen," The healer smiled.

"Wow, she didn&#39;t have to go through the trouble," Jerii said growing embaressed.

He made his way out the healing cot and began to head back towards the waiting room, wondering if Quinn and Kenji were still in there.

"That Kenji fella sure did a number on you," Masa joked.

"Oh, and it&#39;s true, the Queen did stop by to make sure you were ok, and even pitched in the healing process," Mune explained.

"The Queen has all the great qualities that we loved about her, huh brother," Masa sighed.

"Now&#39;s not the time to talk about her," Mune snapped.

"Hey calm down Mune, why are you so jumpy all of a sudden," Jerii replied.

"It&#39;s nothing, We&#39;re glad to see that you&#39;re alright," Mune stuttered.

Jerii sighed, still confused about the conversation his spirits were having.


Kenji&#39;s back was forced against the wall. He could feel Quinn&#39;s grip tightening, and her patience growing thin. He merely smiled, knowing that she wouldn&#39;t hurt him, not here at least. Kenji refraimed from breaking free, or laying a finger on Quinn, he knew that would just lead to even more complications. His face jerked to the side feeling the mental blows coming from Quinn&#39;s telepathy. Kenji grunted, after Quinn physically slapped him, he could feel the pain running through his head and his cheek. He quickly supressed it and turned to face Quinn, still a smile on his face.

"Don&#39;t do anything you would regret," Kenji said.

He could feel Quinn&#39;s grip loosening, so Kenji took the oppourtunity to slide back down and break free. He merely moved to the side, giving space between himself and Quinn. Kenji could feel the intensity within her eyes, which enticed him.

"You have a lot of spunk," Kenji muttered "Learn to control it."

His hand was placed gently on the hilt of his sword once more. He made no sudden moves, and continued to glare down at Quinn.

"I don&#39;t know how you keep your cool," The voice whispered.

"Silence, she has telepathy, she could tap into this," Kenji retorted.

"True, but my energy signal is weak at the moment, too vague for a telepath of her caliber to pick up," The voice informed.

"Alright, but keep your signal weak for the remainder of the tournament, you can raise it back when we&#39;re in the exhibitions," Kenji commanded.

"Yes Master," The voice replied.

Kenji turned his back on Quinn, getting ready to prepare for the exhibition tournament.

"If we meet like this again," Kenji sneered "don&#39;t be surprised if you end up against the wall, taking the threats."

Kenji made his way out the door. Jerii was in front of the door, he turned the knob and out walked Kenji. Their eyes met for a brief second before Kenji turned his head forward.

"I&#39;ll see you in the exhibitions," Kenji said "let&#39;s hope that you win enough matches to face me, I can sense you thirst for revenge."

Jerii began to grit his teeth, trying to hold back his anger. He knew he&#39;d get his shot at Kenji, but not now. Jerii made his way inside the waiting room, to find Quinn still inside.

"He didn&#39;t threaten you, or hurt you did he?" Jerii asked frantically.

He then noticed Quinn&#39;s match being called for a second time.

"Forget it, we&#39;ll answer this later, get to your match before they think you forfeited&#33;" Jerii exclaimed.

Jerii rushed Quinn out the door, concerned for his friend&#39;s match. He then stood outside, deciding to catch the match from the outside rather than the inside of the waiting room.

[

[Lord Kanti]

Krys stood up and walked away from the arena. He had been watching the match between Kenji and Jerii and could barely keep from grinning.

That move may of have been illegal, but it was effective. He thought to himself as he leaned up against a wall.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn headed to gather Arashi and pull on her armor once more, muttering under her breath and even as she saddled up and rode out to the ring, she sent a message to Jerii,&#39;He didn&#39;t hurt me. He doesn&#39;t scare me. But I do sense a faint link in him with some one or something. He seems to control it. But its pretty weak. I&#39;ll keep an eye on it. Now.....Onto the fight. Then its you and I.&#39;

She flipped down the visor, shaking out her arms before accepting the the lance from a man and was surprised to find it was her master. He smirked,"I&#39;m hanging around to make sure nothing happens to you two again. Take care this time. We can&#39;t take the chance of needing another healing. Arashi knows how to dodge a strike to the head, let him have some reign if it looks like he could get hurt. Even if he rears if hes struck, don&#39;t tighten the rein and scare him more. You can stay on without resorting to hurting him."

Quinn nodded,"I know I know. I wont die. I have to plan a little revenge later as it is."

The man smirked but shook his head and patted Arashis side,"Go on before people start yelling. Your wanted in the ring."

Quinn turned Arashi and headed to her spot, settling into position to find Drak in the same, fancy, bright armor as her last opponent and shook her head. She shook out her arms once more and leaned close to Arashis ear,"Don&#39;t get hit this time buddy. I&#39;ll make sure to give you reign if it looks like they&#39;ll strike so that you don&#39;t get hurt. You can dodge, you know how to."

The large horse tossed his head gently, flipping his mane and Quinn nodded, sitting up and signaled she was ready to see Drak was almost tapping his foot in the stirrup, waiting for her to be ready. She rolled her eyes in his direction just before the horn blew and both horses moved, Arashi, under his own will and understanding, and Draks by a sharp kick.

Both jousters strike and Quinn was able to hook her lance under the shield the same time that Drak had been able to. Even as she poped him from the saddle, she raised her shield arm to let the lance slide out from under as he lifted and backed up Arashi to be sure nothing fell on him and grinned behind the visor when Drak hit the ground in a loud clatter of metal. As was well known, she troted Arashi over to him but he waved her aside as some of his friends helped him up. He leveled a glare on her but she hardly seemed to notice, heading back to the edge where she had seen Jerii stop and pulled her helmet off, sighing and stretching her fingers of her lance hand as she reached him,"Jamed my finger,s Had to use force to lift him. Hes heavy."

She inspected the boy was she speaking to,"Probably wont need as much force to knock you off."

She grinned slightly and somehow slid of Arashi with no trouble.

[Jimbo]

Jerii smiled giving a chuckle towards Quinn&#39;s comment. He began to whistle, causing Knight Rider to come trotting to his side. Jerii didn&#39;t get on his horse yet, both Quinn and Jerii had time to rest before the final match took place. Jerii stretched out a bit knowing that it would take alot of focus and concentration to even scratch Quinn.

"So the two friends are forced to do battle for the honor of the Queen," Masa hummed "Kind of ironic isn&#39;t it?"

"You&#39;ll be using all of the things Quinn taught you in order to defeat her," Mune added.

"Don&#39;t start talking about me beating Quinn yet, she is still an awesome jouster," Jerii replied "We&#39;ll just have to see what goes down."

Jerii finished his stretching and walked up to Quinn. It was almost time to get ready for their match, so he only had a few moments to spare.

"Quinn," Jerii said "Whatever the outcome of this match, we have to remember that we promised we&#39;d do our best to be knighted."

Jerii then looked towards the Queen&#39;s booth, hoping that one day that would be him standing by her side as one of the Royal Guards.

"We&#39;ll both achieve our dreams...together," Jerii smiled.

The trumpets began to play, and the announcer got up from his seat. He cleared his throat getting ready to announce the final match in the jousting tournament.

"Now the moment you&#39;ve all be waiting for...." The announcer trailed off," It&#39;s the Final Match in the Royal Jousting Tournament&#33;"

The crowd cheered in excitement. Differernt portions of the crowds began to select their favorites in the match, chanting their names out loud.

"These two have fought hard to make it here, so now I present the finalists for our final joust&#33;" The announcer exclaimed "Jerii Romen and Quinn Seirei&#33;"

Jerii took a deep breath and smiled at Quinn.

"Let&#39;s give them something to remember," Jerii replied.

He hopped on Knight Rider and trotted off towards the jousting grounds.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had stretched a few times while Jerii had spoken and clambered onto Arashi, patting the horses neck,"Sorry Ara. Seems we don&#39;t get a longer rest. People really want to see the end of the match. All we can hope is we don&#39;t hurt Jerii, ne?"

She giggled quietly, accepting the a fallen lance from her master once more, having to drop it to climb on and pulled her helmet on before taking it. She grinned at her master and he smirked back,"You worked hard to get here. Get to it. See what the outcome is. Even if he throws you, can&#39;t hurt you too much. Just get up and go again another time, another match."

Quinn rolled her eyes,"We&#39;ll see. Gotta wait till the end of this one first."

Her master chuckled and slapped Arashis rump, sending him to a trot,"Go on. Wouldn&#39;t want to leave Jerii waiting."

Quinn settled easily into the trot on Arashi, only slowing him to a walk and a stop when they reached their place across from Jerii.

The crowd fell silent and tense as the friends faced off.

OOC: I&#39;m gonna be going for two days tomorrow. Dun know if I&#39;ll get back on before I leave at noon tomorrow since I&#39;ll probably sleep in a little before then. So I leave permission to Jimbo to post Jerii and Quinns fight. If he comes on AIM when I&#39;m around before he posts, I&#39;ll talk with him about it. If not, its mostly up to him.

[Jimbo]

OOC: I hope everyone had a delightfull Thanksgiving&#33; I sure did w00T&#33; Alright sorry for the delay in posting....I just got Final Fantasy X-2. Being the Final Fantasy Fanboy that I am I&#39;m hooked on it at the moment. I gathered up enough dicipline to pry my hand off the controller and hit the forums&#33; Hopefully I&#39;m not the only dude who is playing Final Fantasy X-2. Funny story, my mom accompanied me to buy it and she was like "Why are you getting this game? It has girls on the cover, are you sure you have the right game?" of course I responded "That&#39;s the reason&#33;" of course she knew I was kidding. I just told her I enjoyed the original, and this is just the sequel, I didn&#39;t want to get into the whole storyline, knowing that my mom isn&#39;t a gamer. Personal opinion of the game: If you liked the first one, you&#39;ll like this one. I just have to say being back at places I&#39;ve been too kinda get rid of the whole "Wow I&#39;ve never seen this before" Kinda feeling, but of course being a sequel, there a reason for it. The Garmet System is fun, and the battles are fast paced, no more waiting of turns now, everything is done through the active battle system (Kind of like Final Fantasy 7 and Chrono Trigger), you have to charge up spells and items, and you can interupt enemy attacks which is great&#33; I really can only recommend this game to those who have played FFX before. If you just jump into this game, you&#39;ll wonder what the heck is going on, and the whole nostalgia feeling that I got, you won&#39;t experience. Oh and the characters actually have facial expressions&#33; I love it&#33; OK, I can go on and on, but then this would belong in the Video Game forum and not the Role Play...sorry :D

On to the post&#33;

BIC: Jerii watched Quinn pull up across from him. His body grew tense, he could feel the crowd fall silent. Jerii put on his helmet, and then got his lance and shield. He took a big gulp, trying to trust his instincts and go with the flow.

"I have to stay calm and focused..." Jerii whispered to himself.

"You&#39;ll do fine kid," Mune replied.

"Give it your all&#33;" Masa cheered.

Jerii smiled as he held tightly to Knight Rider&#39;s reins. He could feel the tension rising, knowing that the whole tournament would be decided with the fall of a rider. The outcome is simple, but after the defeated squire stands up....will their pride be broken. Jerii could count on Quinn to be supportive of him no matter what, and he hoped that she knew that he would do the same for her. The trumpets played and then the referee came forward. He once again looked at both Jerii and Quinn, to make sure that they were ready.

"This is it, alright no holding back..." Jerii grumbled.

He leaned forward, watching the referee raise his arm high in the air. He then dropped the hankerchief from his hand and Knight Rider bursted forward. Jerii watched as Quinn and Arashi were coming closer and closer. He tried to adjust his lance, to make sure that it would hook under Quinn&#39;s arm. The two finally collided with great impact. Jerii felt Quinn&#39;s lance underneath his arm. He jerked it off, and could feel that he missed with his attack. Jerii and Quinn met on opposite sides, seeing that they were both on their horses. The referee picked up his cloth and stepped forward once more.

"Two more rounds," The referee declared.

Jerii raised his eyebrow, wondering what that was about.

"Don&#39;t you know..." Mune sighed.

"You have 3 rounds to knock your opponent off in a jousting match," Masa explained.

"Oh," Jerii responded.

"Heh, maybe you should read the rules before going in the tournament, and by the way, if a winner isn&#39;t declared after three rounds you both lose," Mune added.

"That&#39;s a draw right?" Jerii asked.

"In a way, but in everyone elses eyes, you both lose," Masa said "So try your best to win&#33;"

Jerii nodded his head, and watched as the referee gave both him and Quinn some seconds to rest before the start of the next round.

"Alright let&#39;s have at it again," Jerii huffed easing up his shoulders "Hopefully someone will go down."

[Tora_No_Unmei]

OOC: I&#39;m guessing Jimbo wants me to take the second one............

Wellll......I&#39;ll work on it....get something good. I&#39;m staying out half a day tomorrow. I&#39;m home the first half of the school day to go to the doctor and have a needle stabed in my arm. *grumbles* people tell me its nothing. Its my SECOND shot in two days.....I had a shot yesterday when I went to the dentist to have some fillings taken out and put back in and now I need to have my third for hepatitus B.. I know it sounds childish for a 15 year old but I get really shaky and scared of needles.

*sighs* Theres no fun in needles....people tell me to talk about something and get it off my mind but I feel the damned doctor rubbing my arm with the stuff and I KNOW hes going to stab the needle in soon so I start having trouble talking.......Mums gonna make fun of me.........

*wanders to post still muttering*


BIC: Round Two

Quinn shook out her arms, taking a careful breath,"Alright Arashi. Lets keep it up. Remember to dodge if the jousting stick looks like it&#39;ll strike or if anything could happen that could harm us."

The stallion nodded, lowering his head, stamping his foot, dark eyes level on Knight Rider, knickering softly and tossed his head. Quinn smirked behind the visor,riding to position once more, watching Jerii and Knight Rider do the same.

The referee steped forward once more, looking to the signal of a hand raised from either side, dropped the cloth and backed off as the two horses tore into a gallop. Quinn steadied her weight, settling the lance, watching Jerii fix his own into position.

The two clashed and Quinn waited for the feeling of weightlessness if she went flying and also watching for Jerii but instead felt her jousting stick was off instead and crashed directly in the center of the shield, snapping and shattering, Arashi wheeled, kicking to dodge the woo pieces and danced back, Jeriis Knight Rider more placide about the wood and backing off easily. It took Quinn a moment to calm Arashi enough to drop down. shifting her weight and lifted the visor to check that Knight Rider and Jerii were unharmed and found that they were fine, the pieces of her jousting stick laying in the dust between the two horses.

She smiled shortly and flashed a thumbs up, turning her attention to Arashi for a moment, tugging his head to the side slightly,"You okay buddy?"

Her reply was a short nod of his head, mane flapping even as her telepath reached out to Jerii, Masa and Mune,&#39;You three okay? No damage to Knight Rider or yourself Jerii?&#39;

Even as she asked, it was chosen for one more run to find a winner and she gently turned Arashi, troting him back to where her master waited, accepting the water skin from him and taking a small sip while he chuckled,"Seems you have your work cut out for you huh?"

Quinn nodded. Jerii had also returned to his side to be treated to a water skin of cool water to take a short breather before Quinn was gathering another jousting stick and turned to find what would happen next.

[Ayumi]

OOC:
Ok how about we split the tournament in two where the day ends after the jousting portion is done and we move to the first royal feast where more characters can interact and then have the second fighting portion done afterwards in a separate thread? That way we can move things along nicely:)
IC:
*Watching as her two designated favorites pit their skills against each other, Klea chews her lower lip thoughtfully.... after the winner was decided there would be a final Jousting match between that squire and Kenji. She could only hope that one of her favorites would win.
There after would come the Royal banquet and at last some precious time alone before the Fighting portion of the tournament the next day and there after the champions would leave on their mission.
Accepting a glass of cool lavender water from Jean Louis she watches and is silent as the last round between Jerii and Quinn occurs."

[Jimbo]

OOC: I don&#39;t mind that, but actually, if you don&#39;t want to have the second portion and drop it all together I really wouldn&#39;t mind Ayumi. I think everyone else has been waiting on both Tora and I, to finish up the jousting. So we can drop the second portion, and just proceed with the story so that everyone else can get in&#33; Oh and btw, Kenji was DQ&#39;ed from the Tourny. Alright on to the post&#33;

BIC: Jerii readied himself, he was a little shaken by the impact of the second round. He watched as Quinn adjusted herself, making sure that all her armor was straight and there were no flaws in her equipment. He still was shocked that the force of their blow was able to crush a jousting stick.

"We&#39;re just fine Quinn, it&#39;s now or never," Masa replied.

"Don&#39;t be afraid to hold back&#33;" Mune shouted "Give it all you got&#33;"

"Let&#39;s do this Quinn," Jerii thought.

He then nodded his head and slanted himself forward. The crowd waited silently for the last round to begin. This was the deciding round, and whoever won this would most likely win a spot in the Queen&#39;s favor. Both squires had worked hard to make it this far, and weren&#39;t ready to give up, nor lose. Jerii took a deep breath as the referee made his way to the center of the jousting field. He looked at both competitors and then raised his cloth in the air. In a matter of moments, the referee dropped the cloth, and both jousters rushed at each other. Jerii put all his focus into Quinn&#39;s chest. He saw that Quinn had him scouted, as she covered the area Jerii was aiming for. It was too late for him to change his attack, so Jerii kicked Knight Rider on his side, ordering him to go faster. He hoped that the impact of his jousting stick would knock Quinn off. Quinn had already foun her mark, Jerii had left his upper shoulder exposed. The two finally collided, and the crowd began to stand up to examine the winner and the loser. Jerii flew back grabbing his right shoulder, Quinn nailed a direct hit. He got to his feet, and noticed that she was on the floor as well.

"What happened&#33;?&#33;" Jerii cried.

"You were going too fast, everything must have just happened in a blur&#33;" Masas said.

"Looks like your plan worked, you applied enough force to knock Quinn off, but she connected with a direct hit," Mune explained.

Jerii helped Quinn up, and sighed. He knew that the tournament they both worked so hard for, ended in a tie. Jerii was hoping for a winner, even if he turned out to be the one losing. He smiled and dusted his armor.

"Hey Quinn," Jerii smiled "There is no one else I&#39;d rather tie with than you."

The crowd began to cheer and clap, pleased with the outcome of the battle. Jerii was surprised, he thought that the crowd would be dissappointed with a draw. He then faced the Queen and bowed. He knew that the Queen too expected a winner, but Jerii knew that both Quinn and him, won the tournament...together.

[Ayumi]

*a faint smile curves Klea&#39;s lips as she watches the outcome of the tournament. She rises to her feet applauding as do her courtiers and slowly all the rest follow suit.
Accepting Jean Louis&#39; proffered hand she is escorted towards the Royal banquet.

************************************************** ******************

*The Banquet hall, with it&#39;s vaulted ceilings filled with paintings created by Artistic Masters, is decorated tonight in lush flowers as fragrant and exquisite as they are rare and precious. The Perfume from the floral arrangement compliments the aroma of the awaiting delicacies and course after delicious course is prepared. At the head of the head table, the Young Queen sits with her chancellors and the two victorious squires as well as Jean Louis who is seated at her side.

Jean Louis touches the Queen&#39;s sleeve lightly and asks so all can hear," How like you the tournament Your Majesty?"

"Liketh it very well my young Jean Louis. The outcome even more so favoring as I had.... But come, let&#39;s hear the voices of our champions.. Speak and be heard&#33;"

*All eyes turn to the Young squires awaiting their words.*

[SGI]

Kain smiled slyly at the outcome of the joust. Raising an eyebrow he applauds, having not really paid much attention to the joust, it was only appropriate to applaud when deemed necessary.

In the banquet hall, Kain was happily digging into a lovely piece of chicken, it was a lovely chicken which had a nice shimmering texture. As his teeth ripped into the fine white meat he watched as Queen Klea announced for a speech. Kain promptly raised his eyes, interested in what was to be said.

[Belisarius]

OOC: I&#39;m right bloody lost at this point, so I&#39;m just going to step out of the RP. I&#39;ve another one to play in anyways, and less characters to keep track of = less crappy posts in both RPs. Sorry folks.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn blushed slightly. She&#39;d changed before coming here and was dressed in a more formal outfit but fit for a squire rather then a girl. It was a tunic of a deep navy blue and tan colored breeches that fell a little loosey to her ankles, held up by a nice belt at her waist. Her reddish brown hair was combed to look cleaner then it had been, green eyes searching the people there, looking back and forth between the two she was seated between, Jerii and a gentleman she wasn&#39;t sure she knew of as of yet.

As though she had been pushed by an invisible hand, she rose to her feet, holding her head high and taking a deep breath to calm herself. A faint wave of some fear washed from her though her telepathic connection when Jerii and the spirits with him and her green eyes barely flickered in his direction,&#39;Take over when I&#39;m done ne? Please.....don&#39;t leave me hanging.&#39;

She reached out to rest a hand on his sholder for a moment for a quick, uncertain gesture before finally forcing herself to look around at the people around her, the flush fading slightly,"Well.......First off I would like to thank Your Majesty for cheering us on and even having this tournament to give us a chance to show our skills and help our training."

She bowed deeply toward Queen Klea, holding the formal gesture for a moment or two before continuing, trying to chose her words carefully,"I know Squire Romen and I are glad that we both did well against each other. We even helped eachother before the match to help each other in weak points. I helped Squire Romen to clean up his jousting skills and gave him the chance to know how to beat me but we still tied. We both have worked hard to gain this chance. I hope the queen did enjoy our skills."

She flashed a small grin toward Queen Klea, pausing to gulp and think quickly,"Well......ehh.I don&#39;t know what I can really say in all this. I guess I&#39;m still a little surprised by it all that I&#39;m even here. Squire Romen and I are only 18 years of age each and haven&#39;t normally been in the presence of Her Majesty for long since we have been off training since we became squires. I followed this dream solely to follow what my brother wished to be. He wanted to taken this role, a squire and work hard and become a knight that Her Majesty and the Kingdom would be proud of. Instead, I&#39;m here in his place, Terin lost his life before he had the chance to even reach the start of Knighthood Training."

She frowned slightly and uncertainly ran shaking fingers through reddish brown hair, sighing quietly and bowed again toward the Queen, then around the room, then once more to the Queen, before sinking gently into her seat and looking to Jerii, reaching out to tap his sholder gently.

[Jimbo]

Jerii didn&#39;t have any formal wear, so he had to go to the banquet with only his common clothes. He still had Masamune strapped onto his back, then before seating, he placed it on his side in order to feel more comfortably seated. He listened as the Queen made some comments about today&#39;s events, and then watched as Quinn delivered a good speech. He remembered her request, to finish off the speech, so Jerii waited for Quinn to be seated before he himself rose up. He then bowed before the Queen, and then towards the rest of the attendants.

"Fix your collar, you look rugged," Masa said.

Jerii began to fix his collar, making sure it looked presentable.

"Make sure to talk clearly," Mune suggested.

Jerii then cleared his throat, and began to open his mouth.

"Wait&#33;" Masa and Mune exclaimed.

"Let me handle this ok&#33;" Jerii snapped "I think I can manage a couple of sentences."

"Oh all right," Masa and Mune sighed.

Jerii once again cleared his throat and then began to speak.

"I think Quinn had the gist of what I was going to say," Jerii smiled "But I would like to once again, thank your Majesty for arranging this joust. I know that you all wanted a winner, but we tried our best, and hopefully that was enough."

Jerii then took a deep breath before speaking again, he wasn&#39;t use to addressing such a large audience.

"This is one of the first times I&#39;ve ever been in the palace," Jerii chuckled "Aside from running errands for Master Gar. It is an honor to this privelage, and I promise that I will do my best to someday be knighted by her Majesty. It is every squire&#39;s dream to be accepted into knighthood, and it is a dream that I wish to turn into reality. Thank you all for your support, let&#39;s enjoy this banquet before the food gets cold."

Jerii smiled and once again bowed towards the Queen and then the audience. He then began to help himself to the dozens of platters on the table.

"How was that?" Jerii replied focusing on Quinn&#39;s mind.

[Keshadei]

She had stepped away from the tournament shortly before it had ended. Walking again through the gardens, she makes her way slowly and gingerly tback towards the castle where she knows a celebration will be held for the winners. After a few moments, she finds herself inside the main castle again among a large group of well dress people who had attended that days festivities. Lifting her chin, she moves through the crowd with a confidence not usually seen in a woman walking alone in court. In the banquet hall, she leans against the wall with her arms crossed over her chest and watches those sitting at the tables with their food. Sighing slightly as she sifts her weight in boredom, she is almost relieved when the young Queen begins to speak. Thinking to herself that she will have to get with the young woman soon, she listens only partially to the winners as they speak their peace. She smirks in amusement at the young lad who was last to speak, noticing his slight nervousness about amoung the court. Crossing her legs at the ankles, she rests her back against the wall as she waits for the dinner to finish so she might converse abit with the beings in the room withoug disturbing their food. She noticed that people she spoke to generally didn&#39;t like conversing with her and starting at her elongaded teeth while they ate and she did not. She never really cared about it but she still attempted, at least in court, to respect it. Yawning slightly, she waits for the next person to speak.

[Yamcha]

Zelos sits atop the castle wall crouched down so that he is nothing but a mere shadow amoungst the blissful darkness. His black cloak softly waves with the moving wind, as he kneels there with his hand preched on the hilt of his sword. He then with out thought, falls from his spot atop the wall and lands on the ground below.
He looks up at the slender windows emitting light, which flicker constantly from the candles. He continues to walk in the shadows as he makes his way closer and closer to the front entance. He stops a few pases before entering into the lit area. He looks around at the front entrance which is gaurded by two men coated in thin armor. Both men support themselves with their spears, as to not completly fall asleep.
"Hmm...not exactly the most fortified place I&#39;ve seen." Zelos mutters to himself underneath his breath
He thinks to himself as he looks around more &#39;I wonder who actully lives here?...Wonder if theres anything to eat..&#39;

[Ayumi]

*The Elegant white stone castle is settled on the highest point in Medias res with a gracious ease that welcomes the eyes of onlooking travellers. It&#39;s beauty is not Lost on Young Zelos and he can hear the sounds of laughter and music as well as the delectable aromas of the tournament feast waft out from the main hall.
A small Orange and creme cat trots up to Zelos and purring rubs against his leg. It is a rare breed of feline with oddly intelligent eyes. The cat is very well taken care of and wears a priceless collar of blue diamonds and on it&#39;s platinum collar tag is the symbol of the Royal house. Purring tha cat trots away from Zelos a little and looks behind him as though to say, "You coming?"*

************************************************** ******************

*A gracious smile curves Queen Klea&#39;s mouth and she applauds appreciatively with the court a beat behind her. As the Meal commences she notices a Young Lady sitting some tables away from her, darkly beautiful with curls a darker shade than her own and a mouth that occationally flashed a bit of fang.
Used to Vampires within her realm the young Monarch nods slightly to the Lady Vampire before averting her attention to nudging Jean Louis into chatting with the Squires.
The Feast is a merry and fullsome one with no expence spared. The Ivory walls gleam and shimmer with jewels and are thick with flowers lush and fragrant, each table from that of the Queen&#39;s to the children&#39;s groans under the weight of the selection of dishes.
There are roasted fat Gopplebirds stuffed with tearnuts and wild bog berries, Roast beasts surrounded on platinum platters with delicious round roots, Armor claw longtails broiled in marinated creme churn, Armor claw no-tails steamed and dressed with minty-curls, Cluck-fluff meat baked in delightful pasty rounds, Snouted cloven trotter smoked and fresh from the ovens glazed in beesweets and armorfruit, Spicy hopper stew, fresh loaves and twists made from the finest field glitter, platters and platters of greenes and other florafoods... not to mention the desserts....
Under such conditions not a one except perhaps that of those trainned in such things would notice the difference in the glint of a knife not of silver.



OOC: The foods mentioned have real life equivalents...:

Gopplebirds - Turkeys

Tearnuts - Chestnuts

Wild Bog berries - Cranberries

Roast Beasts - Roast Beef

Round roots - Potatoes

Armor claw longtails - Lobsters

Marinated Creme churn - Marinated butter

Armor claw no-tails - Crabs

Minty curls - Parsley

Cluck fluff - Chicken

Pasty rounds - Puff pastry shell

Snout cloven trotter - Pig, pork, in this case a ham.

Beesweets - Honey/honeyglaze

Armorfruit - pinapples

Hopper stew - Rabbit stew

Field glitter - grain that is used to make flour

Florafoods - Fruits and veggies

Whew&#33; What a meal&#33;&#33; but wait.... note that faeries suffer more damage from non silver metals..... ;) Happy playing

[Yamcha]

Zelos looks at the cat as it walks into the front entrance of the castle. He gently smiles as he takes a deep breath. While pressing his palm onto the hilt of his sword; he walks by the sleeping gaurds through the main aperature. Upon entering he stops to hear the sound of peoples voices echoing down the hollow corridors. Elegant tapestries decorate the cold stone walls of the castle. He notices that the cat continually circles his legs, lightly brushing against him and then going further and further into the intertwining hallways. Candles flicker smoothly creating a warm cozy feeling as he walks deeper into the heart of the castle. As he continues to walk, the voices of the people grow louder until finally he reaches when he comes around the finall corner he can see people dining at tables. He stops, as to not be seen and waits there.

[Ayumi]

*The small Orange and Creme cat looks up at Zelos curiously and begins to meow loudly to attract attention. A small Fey maid looks to the doorway. Her keen dark vision usual to her species of faerie spots the young man and she curtsies defferencially."

"Welcome honored guest, have you come for the feast? The Queen is in a splendid mood and as such the feast is a grand and merry one. Shall I find you your seat?"

*tilting her head curiously she smiles and motions towards the feast and the Queen resplendent in a sumptious gown of glorious blue violet velvet stitched with real silver and gemstones, face filled with youth and good humour as she teases her favorite page. Looking at Zelos, the maid awaits his answer.*

[Yamcha]

Zelos glances at the orange creme cat, and then looks back at the maid staring blankly; and then shakes his head after a moment.
"I&#39;m sorry my manners lack propensity" he says gently
As he then immediatly bows, taking his hand off the hilt of his sword and takes the right hand of the maid and softly kisses it. After letting go of the maids hand he glances at the orange cat who is rubbing agianst his left leg and softly purring.
"Sorry for me asking; but what such occasion calls for this grand feast?" He says looking into the great hall.

[Ayumi]

*The Maid smiles at Zelos&#39; gallantry*

"Why Sir have you not heard? Our most excellent mistress has recently been crowned and as such gave a tournament amongst knight and knights in training with grand prizes. The Squires were given a chance to show off their skills and the winners amonst them are to go on a quest to save the wood elves of Firenfeld.

It was Her Gracious Majesty&#39;s request that the victory feast be open to all who wish to attend, from the richest aristocrat to the poorest street urchin. All who seek it are given alms in coin as well as foodstuffs to carry home. It is a grand Day here good sir and I hope you will find it pleasent to feast in the Queen&#39;s honor and partake of games, music and merriment as well as a meal.... I would imagine if you are a dignitary of some kind or even a messenger you can quite easily approach the Queen&#39;s table... She is always happy to recieve a new guest."

*Curtsying again she lifts a pitcher to carry back to the kitchens and smiling over her shoulder at him disappears with a flutter of sparkles.*

[SGI]

Kain raises an eyebrow. Seeing a glint of metal, he hides the upturned smirk that would soon appear on his lips. Only an assassin could find such ease in finding an Assassin. Rather casually, much to the exasperation of those used to the rigid codes of formality, Kain merrily wanders up to Klea, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“Wonderful party you have here, I expected nothing less from the Queen�

Suddenly Kain leans forward towards the Queen, his voice more restrained, barely audible to her above the audio barrage that is expected at such a feast.
“There’s an Assassin amongst your honoured guests, judging by the steal I’m guessing he may more than likely use a dagger, or possibly throwing knives. It’s extremely doubtful he may possess any large weapons. Thought I’d let you know�

Turning around with great haste, Kain’s eyes meet the potential assassin’s. His lips turning into a sharp smirk. His way of letting the assassin that he knows what he is up to and that he should know that his life is now in peril.

[Yamcha]

Zelos looks down at the orange creme cat, who is incircling his legs rubbing up agianst him. He runs his fingers through his hair and sighs, as the feline purrs in suspense. He then bends down a bit and lightly pets the top of the cats head with his index and middle finger.

"Don&#39;t look at me, your the one that brought me in here..." he says while smiling
"I suppose theres no harm in my pondering exactly what is happening"

He then without other thought, stands up and walks into the great hall. The second he sets foot into the room silence over takes the peoples voices. He slowly walks up to the head table where the queen is seated, as he walks the only sound made are that of his boots agianst the hard cold stone floors. He makes his way up to the Queen and bows.

"My grace, it is a pleasure to see a friendly host. Let me introduce myself, I am Zelos from the house of Ezon"

[Ayumi]

*The little orange and creme cat purrs contentedly and trots after Zelos as he makes his way to the Queen in a oddly hushed Great Hall.*


"My grace, it is a pleasure to see a friendly host. Let me introduce myself, I am Zelos from the house of Ezon"

*The Young Queen smiles gently, her angel&#39;s face showing none of her concern that an assassin sits at her tables awaiting his chance as indicated by her Spy Master Kain.
Lifting her Goblet of pure Platinum set with perfect rubies as large as a man&#39;s thumbnail, she extends it to him as is the customary hospitality welcome to a stranger-traveller.*

"Hail Young Master Zelos of Ezon, The Queen of Medias Res Welcomes thee. May your stay prove pleasureable and with many delights and only after you have partaken in some joy of food, drink and song might you speak as to what has brought you to us."

*Offering him the Goblet her smile widens and that smile touches her great grey eyes, proving that she did indeed enjoy guests and offering hospitality. Her home is a warm one filled with content and the Orange and Creme cat hops into the Queen&#39;s lap as though he owned it. She pets the cat with one hand continuing to hold out the goblet awaiting him to take the customary sip before taking a seat at a table.*

[Yamcha]

Zelos takes the offered goblet from the queen, and before drinking it looks into the chalice. He swrils the goblet twice watching the blood red liquid inside twril. The liquid funnels and then stops after only a dew seconds. He then brings rim of goblet to his lips, and takes a small sip. As soon as he sawllows, the mass of conversation commenses. He then after drinking, places the chalice infront of the queen.

"My grace, I can not help descry your home is profoundly exquisite" He says while looking at all the food
His eyes traverse to the cat on the queens lap "I can see that your exellency takes great titillation in the finest of extravagances. Is the feline forwith yours?"He says, and without looking he grabs a goblet right from a maid who had happen to be passing by carrying a tray of them.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn watched the whole thing going on in silence and after Zelos had taken the goblet and had taken a sip before going back to his seat, she lifting her own glass to take a sip, not caring for food at the moment, but mostly took a little just to have something in her stomach. Everything going on was a little crazy and she was a little wraped up in things.

She had ofcourse spotted the man Kain slip up to the queen and speak a few words with her before returning to the wall behind her. Quinn twisted only slightly in her seat to peer at him for a moment then turned the shift into turning toward Jean Louis, head tilted slightly,"I&#39;m not so sure I&#39;m used to this sort of celebration.........are you a.................."

She paused, searching for a word,"A.....servent to the Queen? Or are you a page? You have looks I feel that I should know...."

She frowned only slightly, tilting her head even as her telepath stretched, wavering and weak but pushing toward Kain for a few words only since she couldn&#39;t hold it for much more then that,&#39;Is the queen in some danger that we should know about Good Sir?&#39;

[SGI]

Kain could hear the voice in his head asking about the current situation. �The Queen shall be fine, this is what I live to do…�

Kain slowly approached the individual. Judging by the height, he was most likely human. He was about to touch his shoulder to try and lead him outside before delivering the coup de grace. Unfortunately, he had to take a leap back as the dagger swung towards him. Taking a step back, the slash was quickly avoided.

“Unprovoked assault with intent to kill. Attempted murder of a member under issue of the queen, suspected assassination attempt of the queen. Your life is already over…� As the man stabbed forward, Kain grabbed the hand wielding the knife, bending the mans wrist out of joint. The lifeless hand falling open at the sound of a loud crack. As the knife fell, Kain let go of the hand, grabbing the knife.

“It’s over…� Kain thrust the knife forward as the knife ripped apart his neck, piercing through the windpipe. The mans attempt to breath turning into something of a mutated whistle. Falling to the ground, the man quickly passed into unconsciousness, in a minute or so, his life would be over, or it was so already.

Turning around, Kain walked back over to he was standing, ignorant of the fact the banquet came to a near standstill as the small skirmish occurred.

[Yamcha]

Zelos se averts his attention to the two men . As soon as the brawl was over, he sets down his goblet on the table and stepes lightly over to the lifeless body. He bent down and got onto one knee while taking out a small dagger. He slits the bloody shirt down the center and opens it, revealing the mans chest.

"Looks like this isn&#39;t the first time hes been cought" He says while pointing at the A mark branded into the mans right chest plate.

He thinks to himself &#39;His head could&#39;ve been worth a fourtune if I had gotten to him first...&#39; He then gets up slowly spinning the blade in his hand and offering the handle to Kain.

"I mean no harm to your queen." He says humbly as he then walks back over towards the queen

He then picks up his glass and continues to drink from it. As he tips his head all the way back drinking all the wine a maid walks by with a tray of florafood; and without looking he grabs an apple as she passes. He then sets his glass down and takes a bite into the lucious red apple.

[Yamcha]

Zelos se averts his attention to the two men . As soon as the brawl was over, he sets down his goblet on the table and stepes lightly over to the lifeless body. He bent down and got onto one knee while taking out a small dagger. He slits the bloody shirt down the center and opens it, revealing the mans chest.

"Looks like this isn&#39;t the first time hes been cought" He says while pointing at the A mark branded into the mans right chest plate.

He thinks to himself &#39;His head could&#39;ve been worth a fourtune if I had gotten to him first...&#39; He then gets up slowly spinning the blade in his hand and offering the handle to Kain.

"I mean no harm to your queen." He says humbly as he then walks back over towards the queen

He then picks up his glass and continues to drink from it. As he tips his head all the way back drinking all the wine a maid walks by with a tray of florafood; and without looking he grabs an apple as she passes. He then sets his glass down and takes a bite into the lucious red apple.

[Jimbo]

OOC: Sorry my computer was busted at the moment and I&#39;ve been sick for a while. I hope I didn&#39;t leave the impression of "ditched" in your minds T_T.

BIC: Jerii watched as the conversation between the Queen and Zelos began. He scratched his head trying to figure out what was going on. He wasn&#39;t so use to so many people talking at once. Even though Jerii was trying to keep his ears on their conversation, others were talking around him.

"What do you make of all of this," Jerii thought.

"Well, it seems Zelos is trying to win the Queen&#39;s trust," Masa said.

"He&#39;s doing a pretty good job, using big-fancy words like that," Mune noted.

"Hmmm, you think he has some sorta hidden agenda, I mean someone just coming outta the blue like this," Jerii pondered.

"Hard to tell, we can&#39;t tap into his mind at all, and we can feel no evil intentions, so he must be telling the truth," Mune replied.

"Nevertheless, a soldier of Media Res should be on his guard at all times," Masa declared.

"Alright, let&#39;s just get back to the eating," Jerii smiled.

He then began to scarf down some more food. The selection seemed endless to Jerii. He then noticed someone close to the Queen whisper something in her ear. Jerii raised his eyebrow then quickly began to stare back at his food.

"What do you guys think he said?" Jerii asked.

"You&#39;re mighty curious today," Masa said.

"Well you know me, I always want to learn new things," Jerii said sarcastically.

"Well knowing something like this won&#39;t save your life someday, but if you are so eager to know..." Mune trailed.

"I think he said something about sassy skin," Mune answered.

"And dancing with knives, maybe the Queen hired some entertainment?" Masa suggested.

"Uhhhh, that doesn&#39;t sound right," Jerii said.

He then turned his head to see Quinn talking to one of the Queen&#39;s servants. Jerii then noticed the assasination attempt take place. He immediately began to rise with his hand on the hilt of Masamune. But the Queen&#39;s guard immediately dispatched the assassin with ease. Jerii sat back down and took a sigh of relief.

"Phew, wow never been that close to an attempted murder before," Jerii said under his breath.

"Assassin&#33;" Masa and Mune said in unison.

"Heh, Sassy skin?" Jerii said.

"Hey, we&#39;re old ok&#33;" Masa and Mune snapped.

"Although I hoped there were some entertainment," Masa sighed.

"Well I thought the Queen&#39;s bodyguard should of asked some questions before taking the man out, maybe we could of found out who wanted the Queen murdered," Mune sighed.

"Fighters nowadays, kill first ask questions to a corpse later, just makes it harder to find the real menace," Masa noted.

"Heh, I woulda done the same thing, but good point, I&#39;ll make sure to do that," Jerii thought.

"Well now you know, so don &#39;t go and waste this piece of advice." Masa said.

"But feel free to kill throwaway henchman, they don&#39;t know a whole lot," Mune responded.

"Throwaway what-men?" Jerii asked puzzled.

"You know, lackeys? Guys with a only one thing on their mind, and that&#39;s to serve their master? You don&#39;t know what henchman are&#33; What are we rotting our youth with nowadays&#33;" Mune cried.

"Heh, I think I know what you&#39;re talking about, don&#39;t worry, I&#39;ll make sure to know the difference," Jerii chuckled.

He gave himself a short laugh, but kept it to himself. Jerii then stretched his legs from underneath the table and began to eat once more. He made sure to be a little more ready, in case something else were to occur.

[Ayumi]

*Jean Louis smiled at Quinn, the smile revealing a dimple and bringing a sparkle to his brilliant grey green eyes. Setting down a goblet from one graceful hand well known for it&#39;s ability to make many instruments sing like a chorus of Angels, he nods readily.*

"I am indeed her Majesty&#39;s servant as are we all my lady. Her Highness was good enough to keep watch over me in childhood and now has me as her servant as well as companion."

*Klea shook her head with a soft laugh, her halo of rich sunny red curls dancing around her porceline cheeks.*

"Jean Louis is far too modest. Indeed we were childhood companions, but he is not just a companion but my greatest friend and most loyal protector and caretaker.... Honestly I wouldn&#39;t know what to do without him&#33;"

*Patting his shoulder with affection she nearly speaks again before hearing the outburst of action between her Spy master and the would be assassin. Jean Louis stands using his body as a shield for Klea awaiting the outcome.

Seeing the Assassin picked off, Jean Louis arranges the guards to take away the body.He bows gracefully to Kain in thanks followed by all the rest of the court and Klea saluts him with goblet raised.

Once the Banquet recommences, the Queen smiles at the two squires with a twinkle of humor in her eyes*

"So... Does being of the Queen&#39;s Entourage still strike you as appealing in light of such events?"

[Yamcha]

Zelos looks left and right and notices the room has gone semi silent. He drops his apple on the table abd then walks to the side of the room where he picks up a large chair and carries it over effortlessly to the table in which the queen was sitting. He then drops the chair, making a loud bang that echos through the hall; so that when seated he will be facing the queen directly.

"You fledgling" He says pointing to a maid that appears to be day dreaming " I shall require some sort of plate, and utensils. I belive I may stay. That is if I am not advancing too far beyond your majesties hospitallity." He says while looking directly into the queens eyes

[Ayumi]

*Seeing his bold action Queen Klea raises an eyebrow slightly in an haughty aristocratic expression familiar to the Queens who had ruled before her.
Jean Louis, handsome, kind eyed and gallant rises and taking the Maid&#39;s hand speaks respectfully yet with dismay.*

"Her Majesty&#39;s hospitality is great and though she might enjoy your company sir, you must understand court protocol. It is the Duty of the Pages to bring the seat for the new guest so that the signifigance of the seating arrangement is not undermined.
The Table her Majesty sits at is for mostly the members of the royal family,Her Grace&#39;s entourage, the Queen&#39;s favored Nobles, the High Council and the victors of the tournament. She can if she wishes invite you to be seated with her, which as a newfound guest you might come to expect.
Honored sir, might you also understand that it is the way of The Queen&#39;s to speak respectfully to all her servants and to address them as is polite and
proper. &#39;Flegling&#39; is just not appropriet not terribly kind."

*The Queen smiles at her Jean Louis before speaking.*

"My Dear Jean Louis is correct and I believe, since you are unaccustomed to the ways of courtlife, we shall over look any offence which might have accidentilly have been given if it is alright with Young Ana.
Come my pages bring the Bold gentleman the proper chair and utensils, let him not displace the tourney winners nor my Jean Louis or Sir Kain... And pippers strike a merry song for today we rejoice&#33;."

*Jean Louis Presses a kiss to the Maid&#39;s hand deferencially and sits again to the Queen&#39;s right offering a friendly smile to Zelos.*

[Yamcha]

Zelos smirks in glee as the queen forthwith amended his haste. He then stands up at the table and slightly bows. He then runs his fingers through his hair and slightly exhales; his chest slowly expanding.

"Forgive me your grace; your as unpermissive as you are affable." He says as he bows agian. "However my speech is none other than thruth" Zelos from his normal voice suddenly speaks drasticly quiet and continues "and that is to credit the invader; that may not be the last of your troubles"

He then takes the queens right hands and kisses it lightly. He lets go of her hand letting it drop back down to her side.

"If it is to bold for me to say, but is it to my percipience that I am to learn of your customes?" Zelos says and then continues "If so show me my place your grace."

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn had been about to respond to the Queen when the whole Zelos wanting a seat beside her came up, then their conversation started. She glanced toward Jerii, eyebrow raised and was able to gather a quick strength t pass one message to Kain,&#39;Spy Master. Do not forget there are squires and other guards in this room also. If you come of need to have me help. Just get my attention. I&#39;d do what I could for the Queen.&#39;

She already had a link with Jerii so speaking telepathically to him was easier and lighter on her control,&#39;You three are still loud. Whether I listen in or not. And Masa? Mune? They only let the village children rot their brains about assassins. Pages up to Knighthood learn much about that sort of thing. Or atleast my section did. About I also learned YEARS ago, as a page about the rankings of assassins, henchmen and all that stuff. Unlike Jerii here I guess.&#39;

She pressed something like a mental punch on his sholder and flashed a grin at him before looking toward the Queen, then Jean Louis. She couldn&#39;t hold back the small laugh, tilting her head,"I think I will like the Queen&#39;s Entourage even better now. Now I know hes on our side of things."
She nodded slightly in Kains direction before turning her gaze back toward Jean Louis and Queen Klea,"And I know I would want to be near to help the Queen as much as Jean Louis may need our help for."

She could only shrug slightly after her words.

[Jimbo]

Jerii was about to speak, but was interupted when Zelos was being seated. He decided to keep quiet for a bit, trying to be as polite as he could.

"There he goes again with those big words," Jerii thought.

"It&#39;s called a vocabulary, maybe you should look them up someday, inbetween your sparring and jousting," Masa noted.

"Heh, I see a battle of wits," Jerii thought "Too bad you came unarmed."

"OUCH&#33; He got you good brother," Mune laughed.

Masa grumbled but then gave a chuckle. Jerii then heard Quinn&#39;s response, and forgot that the four of them had a stronger link. Jerii felt Quinn&#39;s mental blow, but smiled and snickered a bit. He couldn&#39;t punch her back, seeing as the only psychic powers he had was talking to his sword and thinking too much. Jerii waited for Quinn to finish before he gave his answer. He faced the Queen and smiled.

"Ummm, it&#39;s all so sudden still," Jerii replied "I mean this morning I was getting ready for the tournament, and now I&#39;m here...in THE Palace&#33;"

He then put his hand behind his head scratching it and smiling.

"Heh, it&#39;s still so surreal, but I&#39;m honored to be here," Jerii said.

He then bowed slowly and adjusted his seat before he slumped back and sat down. Jerii watched as the Queen&#39;s band played a light tune, very upbeat and happy. Jerii laid back and continued to listen to the soothing melody of the pipers, but still keeping himself aware of his surroundings, secretly hoping for something exciting to happen.

[Ayumi]

"Ummm, it&#39;s all so sudden still," Jerii replied "I mean this morning I was getting ready for the tournament, and now I&#39;m here...in THE Palace&#33;"

He then put his hand behind his head scratching it and smiling.

"Heh, it&#39;s still so surreal, but I&#39;m honored to be here," Jerii said.

*Klea smiles sweetly at Jerii, likeing the young Squire&#39;s refreshing honesty and plain language. Her voice conveys that affection.*

"I shall hope then my young friend, that you will become accustom to the pomp and circumstance of the palace and it&#39;s inhabitants. I find myself desiring some fresh faces to join my entourage... perhaps you and Squire Quinn might be interested?
I expect Jean Louis often is bored of company so senior to him and so belabored with the heaviness of law making and the like, that some companions his age would be a happy and welcome change for him... Would it not, Mon Chardonneret?"

*Jean Louis pinkens at being called &#39;Mon Chardonneret&#39; a childhood endearment Klea always bestowed on him meaning &#39; My Goldfinch&#39; for his sunny golden locks. But then he presses a kiss to her hand and professes his appreciation for her attentiveness to his welfare and happiness.

Queen Klea pats Jean Louis&#39; hand before turning and offering a faint smile to Zelos.....Her great grey eyes shine of a frightening intelligence and a power that is not to be trifled with.*

"Do not underestimate my strength dear guest, I am far from being weak and powerless nor am I blind to the burden I carry as Queen in being a target for such attacks.
To my favor I also have a most excellent spy master as well as the Royal guard and my brave Jean Louis. All who would give their lives for my sake. Nay I am not unprotected nor am I unaware."

*She takes a dainty sip from her goblet held by a slender hand ornamented with the most elegant and fine rings dressed by flawless gem stones.*

Young Zelos, I believe you could learn the ways of my court but you will need a guide I think... Perhaps my Jean Louis would be kind enough to offer you his aid, there is no one better versed in ettiquite and no one I trust more. He shall indeed show you your place.

*And with that she looks to Quinn and Jerii again awaiting patiently and hopefully for their answers.*

[Yamcha]

Zelos nods his head in acknowledgement. He then looks to his side and spots Jean. He then bows slightly towards the queen, then turns around picking up the chair that he had brought over and places it back to its orginal place. After returning the chair with ease, he walks over toward Jean and stands behind him leaning up agianst the wall; making sure not to lean upon any tapestries. His black cloat flows around him as he stands there with his arms folded over one another.

He thinks to himself &#39;I wonder if my haste may cause me more trouble then deem nesscary. These people certianly are hospitable, wonder if that is a clever guise in which is covering something deeper.&#39; He pauses to hear his stomach grumble slightly. He softly sighs &#39;I&#39;m still hungry...&#39;

He then places the palm of his left hand on the hilt of his sword. The blade, protected by the sheath swings upwards slightly making contact with the wall causing a slight ping to ring. Continuing to press agianst the hilt, he is able to poise his left hand upon the hilt.

[SGI]

Chuckling slyly at Jean Louis and Quinn’s small speeches he shakes his head. “It’s Ironic how possible that could have been me. But alas that small fact is only humorous with a rather mashochistic sense of humour.�

Taking his half eaten leg of chicken he rips his teeth into it, ripping off a nice piece of meat from it. His eyes darting around, noticing the women and children seemed a little worried by his… ungracious approach in taking care of such an event.

[Ricia Dolan]

Sweat rolled down Ricia&#39;s brow, and a hand lifted the visor of the helm to wipe it away. Ricia looked up at the sun. It was hot, perhaps too hot. But the ride would not be any more tolerable if a break was taken, nor would it be any shorter. A sigh escaped lightly parted lips as the heal of Ricia&#39;s boot gently dug into the black stallions side.

Escorted by another rider, a male with long raven hair, and an overly masculane build, Ricia looked to him.

"Falon, where is this place ye speak of?"

Falons gaze looked to the building tops in the far far distance, "Abou&#39; an hours worth tha&#39; way sir. The town may be all bu&#39; abandoned. Heard they&#39;re having a jousting competition"

Ricia nodded and started the horse to a trot "Better we get there sooner, the horses are weary and need drink."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Upon entering the town Ricia looks around at all the houses, lifting the visor on his helm once again, Tired blue eyes piercing coldly through the village searching for any friendly face, or any Inn around. Ricia encircle his hand with the reign and steered his mount about the town.

"To the castle I guess, to seek out any life here. Perhaps I&#39;ll partake in a joust or so if they are not too far into the competition"

Falon nodded "Indeed it would be good to see you joust again. But mayhaps your getting too old my friend.", his smiled cracked up to the jokingingly lit eyes.

Ricia shot him a regal glance, "Age has nothing to do with skill on a mount. Keep your eyes sharp."

[Tora_No_Unmei]

Quinn couldn&#39;t keep the smile from her lips even as she rose, pushing the chair back slightly and steped to have room and not hit into anything and bowed deeped,"I would be honored to join the Queen&#39;s Entourage and keep Jean Louis company when he needs to see someone his age."

She lifted her head slightly to peer at Jean Louis and Queen Klea from under her bangs, holding her position for a moment longer before finally standing fully once more, smiling gently toward them, then looking toward Jerii from where she stood about a step beside his chair, then back to them. She distinctly noticed she had gathered a bit of attention when she rose and bowed and spoke, people hearing her words and a flush rose to her cheeks, tinting them a light pink before she carefully slid down on her seat once more, head lowered. She didn&#39;t exactly love the attention as of yet and hid from it a bit.

&#39;You&#39;ll join also...wont you? And no more word battles you three. Or I&#39;ll start using some fancy words. The family I came from used to be noble but a far lower ranking noble so I know the ettiquite toward nobles like the Queen and I know rich words for your ears. Country words or Proper words.&#39;

[Yamcha]

Zelos drasticly trys to keep his eyes open. In desperate measures smacks him self agianst the cheek forcefully. But to no avail; he soon shut his eyes and falls asleep standing up. In deep sleep he snores lightly, his chest moving up and down very slowly as he breaths sparingly. His chin lay solidly agianst his collar bone, as his left hand stay upon the hilt of his sword and his right hand clutching his left elbow.

[Jimbo]

Jerii listened to what the Queen offered, and was shocked and honored at the same time. No words could express the feeling he had at that moment, he never thought he&#39;d get a chance like this until he was knighted. Many things flew across his mind as he tried to gather up enough brain power to put into words what he wanted to convey.

"Pull yourself together man&#33;" Mune exclaimed "The Queen expects an answer outta you, don&#39;t just drool into space."

"Mune is right, this is no time to space out and think of glories that have not yet been won," Masa declared.

"What do you think I should say?&#33;?" Jerii cried desperately.

"YES&#33;" The two spirits exclaimed.

Jerii watched as Quinn gave her answer, and listened carefully to the words she chose. He then heard her comment mentally, and then gave a slight chuckle before heeding her warning.

"Please, no more, if we hear anymore words we can&#39;t understand, I&#39;m afraid I&#39;m going to have to slay myself," Masa begged.

"Uhhhh, you&#39;re already dead," Jerii laughed.

"Techically, we&#39;re vengeful spirits," Mune said.

"Well not really, we just don&#39;t want to go on to the next level of death parsay, yet," Masa explained.

"We&#39;ll discuss what kinda spirits you are after I answer the Queen, she probably thinks I&#39;m some sorta freak for spacing out for this long," Jerii shouted.

Masa and Mune held back any further remarks, which finally gave Jerii the time to make his response.

"Sorry, all this excitement is just to good to be true," Jerii stuttered "But it is, and I&#39;m really honored."

Jerii then looked at Jean Louis and gave him a thumbs up.

"It&#39;d be cool to have another buddy around, times are hard these days, and being able to bond close to each other is really important nowadays," Jerii replied "And Quinn and I can show Jean a thing or two about swordsmanship."

"And maybe he can teach you a thing or two in etiquette," Masa whispered.

"Ha, nice one, just give me a sec and I&#39;ll think up a comeback," Jerii snapped.

Masa chuckled a bit, with a faint laughter coming from Mune.

"Once again, thank you Queen Klea..thank you," Jerii smiled.

He took his seat and wiped the sweat from his forehead. He gave a sigh of relief and smiled at everyone in the room. He noticed the man named Zelos dozing off against the wall, but he didn&#39;t want to point him out, "best to let sleeping dogs lie" he thought to himself.

[Ayumi]

"Sorry, all this excitement is just to good to be true," Jerii stuttered "But it is, and I&#39;m really honored."

Jerii then looked at Jean Louis and gave him a thumbs up.

"It&#39;d be cool to have another buddy around, times are hard these days, and being able to bond close to each other is really important nowadays," Jerii replied "And Quinn and I can show Jean a thing or two about swordsmanship."

"Once again, thank you Queen Klea..thank you," Jerii smiled.

*Klea hides her amusement at the young man&#39;s nervousness thinking she had made a wise choice with these two for her darling Jean Louis, her little goldfinch who would grow into a golden hawk someday.

Jean Louis smiles at his new companions and nods at Jerii&#39;s offer*

"A generous offer... I think it would be wise then if your sword masters meet mine own, then we may train together towards greatness."

*His smile is as sweet as it is sincere and the kindness in his green-grey eyes is bright. The chatter in the room is interrupted by a messanger from a foreign empire, who bows low to Klea and offers trhe scroll humbly.

There is great tension in the faces of the Queen&#39;s chief council as they behold the outheld message from that particular Empire. A Wizard steps forth and tests it for jinxes and traps and any sort of tricks until all are sure it is innocuous.

Finally The Queen takes it and reads, her expression calm and cool, and folding it smiles serenely.*

"There has been sent good wishes from afar... Pontus my good man, take this young messanger and give him meal fare and lodgings for the night. And now I must take my rest... Let the celebrations continue until all are satisfied... But for me sweet sleep awaits."

*And with that the young monarch rises from her seat and leads the procession towards the Royal bed chamber, all her chamber maids following in her wake... Though there was no sign of tension as to what the letter contained, something had shaken her deeply.*

[Knight_of_Shadows]

Quinn, always trying to be careful with things rose slightly to bow as the Queen leftbut her eyes were haunted and grim even as she settled back down in her seat.

&#39;Maybe I can teach you two a thing or two about keeping your mouths shut huh?&#39;
Her words were a little sharper then she ment them to be but the worry was high in her mind and she couldn&#39;t stuff it or cool it yet. Not until she really thought it through. She&#39;d learned from her brother when she was younger about watching motions and features for the slightest change that others might miss. She had a bad feeling that something must have also been added to the letter and finally, after cooling her temper slightly, turned to look at Jean Louis,"Is Her Magesty alright?"

She had lowered her tone and level of her voice carefully, pitching it for Jean Lousis ears and Jeriis if Jerii tried to listen in. She was hiding most of her worry but it was still reflected in her eyes as she gently brushed a stray strand of hair back behind her ear, hopping his answer would give her truth and not leave her to find out on her own or worry.

[SGI]

Kain narrowed his eyes at the Queens reaction, to the letter. Walking silently downstairs towards the main castle gates. Darting his eyes towards the guards who were prepared to block his exit, he narrows his eyes.

“What good is a bodyguard and personal envoy without his weapons? Let me pass..�

Staring down the two poor guards they meekly remove themselves from Kain’s path before he silently exited the castle.

Having reached his former lodging he turned his lips up sharply, the entire place ransacked, beds flipped over, and windows smashed. Shaking his head in silence he kneels down two where his bed was, removing a portion of the floorboard. Reaching in he slowly pulled out his rapier and longbow. Strapping the rapier around his waist and placing the longbow beside him he hoisted a heavy black mantle from the floorboard, flinging it around his body. Smirking as he straps the longbow and quiver on him he walks away from the former residence chuckling coldly.

[CaamGrant]

Caamalot yawned big as he urged his steed Taboo closer to the palace. He adjusted his tunic uncomfortably and wondered momentarily who invented these horrid garments, his own preference being a t-shirt and jeans. He looked down longingly at his stetson hanging from his saddle bag and sighed, his head suddenly feeling naked. He ran his fingers through his dark hair and looked at Taboo, who&#39;s steps were faltering as if he were about to fall over. Shaking his head he gave a gruff moan

"Enough Taboo, you surely will not die, I promise a nice Pint of ale when we get there..." his eyes narrowed a little as the horses steps became a bit more sturdy but still enough to jostle Caam&#39;s Nerves. "Okay okay, taboo, I&#39;ll get you a Quart"

Taboo gave a disapproving snort

"2 quarts then my pal??"

Another shake of Taboo&#39;s head

"Fine Fine&#33;&#33; I&#39;ll get you a bloody gallon."

Taboo got a gleam in his eye and trudged forward quite a bit quicker than he was before, obviously happy with this deal. Caam wiped the sweat off his brow before urging Taboo to be quicker... His steed wasn&#39;t the only one that needed a stiff drink. Hopefully her Majesty wouldn&#39;t be very worried about his lack of punctuality. ~~~

[Ricia Dolan]

::: Falon pointed to Caam Grant"Over there, is a gentleman"

Ricia nodded, "Very good Falon, Let us go meet him"

Falon nodded but at seeing the horses falty step stopped his own mount "I fear his steed has fallen ill"

Ricia squinted blue eyes and tried to block the sun with his hand, trying to get a better look. "By God, that is no ill steed, tis Caam Grant and Taboo." Ricia said, astonishment ill hid in his voice.

Falon looked to Ricia and Ricia back to him.

"HYAH&#33;&#33;&#33;" Ricia yelled startling his horse and charging off towards Caam "Come,Falon." He yelled behind him "He is friend."

[Ayumi]

She had a bad feeling that something must have also been added to the letter and finally, after cooling her temper slightly, turned to look at Jean Louis,"Is Her Majesty alright?"

*Sighing Jean Louis watches the retreating back of his Queen before turning his gaze to Quinn.*

"Aye... Even should anything worry Her Majesty, it is sure that her Majesty shall always triumph."

************************************************** ******************

*Dismissing her ladies-in-waiting for the evening, Klea flutters through the halls built by the sweat and toil of her ancestors her eyes alight with purpose... clutched in her right palm is a small rolled up curl of paper.

She knows the halls well for they had accustomed themselves to the tapping of her feet since those sounds were so slight as to seem like the touch of snow flakes to the far echoing swift patter of present day and so now they hear them as they move in seeking.

Finally her steps slow and holding her lantern before her she walks into the forbidden library from the Atrium of time and into the presence of a familiar shape seated at a desk, over flowing with books, and bowed is he over a furtive volume drinking in knowlege, a favorite tonic.*

"Ramarren...."

[Yamcha]

Zelos stands there sleeping in the great hall; and all the sudden slides to the side a bit, awakening him.

"Huh?&#33;? What the..." He says groaning

He then looks around him for a few seconds taking note that the queen, jean luis, and her other urchin are gone. He grabs a hold the hilt of his sword with his right hand, and as soon as he does two gaurds immediately march over to him; each grabbing a hold of one of his arms. He then swings both of his arms in a circular motion causing the gaurds to let go of him. He pulls out his sword letting it fly into the air, as it comes down he catches it in his right hand. He then slashes across at the one gaurd cutting his staff in two.

"Lets get one thing striaght; don&#39;t touch me and I won&#39;t kill you." He says in tempered voice and then continues in a lighter more peaceful voice "So let us check to see if you can comprehend. Are you going to touch me?"

The gaurd in awe, shakes his head &#39;no&#39; sweat rolling down his face in fear. The gaurd looks at the two peices of staff in his hands and then shakes his head &#39;no&#39; agian.

"Good I&#39;m glad we&#39;ve come to an understanding, now if you&#39;ll be so kind as to imform me as to where your queen has gone." He says while patting the one gaurd on the shoulder.

The gaurd replies quickly and says "She has gone to her chambers Sir"

"Any particular reason for this....uhhhhh" He says pondering his name

"William, I&#39;m William" He says taking the incitive to answer him before even him asking the question.

"Ah; William fine name, Any particular reason for her leaving William?" He says while looking at the rest of the guests just staring at him.

"I belive she has gone to retire for the night Sir." William replies

"No need for &#39;Sir&#39;, just call me Zelos Will" He says and then continues "You don&#39;t mind me calling you Will do you?"

"No, you can call me whatever you please Sir uh...I mean Zelos." Will says stutering a bit.

"Ahh.. I see, well then do you as to where I shall be staying?"

[CaamGrant]

Caam winced as he noticed the lack of the suns light and slowed Taboo down a bit. His ear perked as he heard pounding hooves. He patted Taboo on the neck as he looked over at the quickly approaching body.

"Looks like we have heavily armored company Taboo, perhaps it&#39;s one of the Queens men..." his voice trailed off as he recognized the horse, and the initials on the riders helm, "Or mayhaps it is Ricia Dolan..." He blinked at Ricia and gave a cocky grin, understanding Ric&#39;s position in society, but also knowing, that here, he could get away with it.

"Why hello Ricia, You&#39;d think common since would have you not listen to your King... Tracking me down may have been easy. Taking me back, will not be such a simple task. Though, you look quite ill of spirit, come drink with me" He gave Ricia a wink of knowing and dug his heel into Taboos side, bringing him to a steady trot, with Ricia and Falon to follow.

He got off the horse at the castle gates.

" I am presuming... you were wanting to come too." his eyes narrowed a bit at Ricia, before he lifted a brow. "Whether yay or nay, here you are."

[Ricia Dolan]

Falon looked dumfounded at Ricia "I thought you said he was frien....." he was cut short as he realized that Ricia had already taken off after Caam.

Ricia stopped his horse and jumped down quickly wrapping his fist around the collar of Caams tunic and slamming him against the castle gates. He lifts the visor of his helm, his cold blue eyes narrowed.
"Best ye think twice before approaching me in that manner. I will behead ye myself&#33;" Ricia lets go once he thinks the point has come across, and dusts off the front of Caam&#39;s tunic, "Now, ye haughty arse, I wasnae coming here for ye. So get off yer highhorse and accept that the King has thus given up on the persuit. Thanks to a certain friend that has connections" Gives Caam the cocky wink back and quickly turns on his heel. "Oh, get on yer drunkard horse with haste and find ye an Inn, ye have a Queen tae see and it has gotten too late to enter with good manners." He hops on his horse and puts down his visor. "and I...", sighs a moment, "have No idea why i&#39;m here yet."

[CaamGrant]

"okay okay geesh" rolls his eyes a little and watches at Ricia gets on his horse... stays there until Ricia disappears into town. "Jack arse..."

looks at the guards who have been quite dumbfounded the entire time. Their faces show that since they have never seen him, they will probably be hesitant to let him in. He digs into his pocket a few moments before pulling out a wrinkled, stained, piece of parchment and showing it to the men. "Ive been invited...."

Smiles as the gates are opened and he enters....

takes Taboo to the stables and grins at him, mimmicking Ricia "Get on yer drunkard horse, it&#39;s getting too late tae enter with good manners.... Ricia can kiss my big toe..."

Puts Taboo into a stall and walks back to the castle, his walk a bit swift as he makes his way to the front door, his parchment at hand in case anyone is to ask. He searches around the castle, grabbing a guard that was busy picking his nose and grins charmingly shoving the parchment in his face.

"Wheres the Queen?" he barked though his face was calm and mannerly looking

"In her quarters sir"

Caam touseled his hair and nodded "Thank you good sir" he winked and jogged up the stairs, trying to remember exactly how the castle was laid out. He made his way to her room and knocked briskly on the door.

"M&#39;Lady, it is Caam Grant&#33;"

[Pretty Boy of Evil]

<Ramarren>

The leatherbound volume strikes the marble column and slides the the floor.

"Worthless&#33;"

The inveterate wanderer breathes deeply, cooling his rising temper. A gloved hand opens the next book on the stack, and weary eyes begin to skim.

He barely looks up when the young fey queen addresses him.

"What?"

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Pretty Boy of Evil@Jan 10 2004, 05:08 PM
<Ramarren>

The leatherbound volume strikes the marble column and slides the the floor.

"Worthless&#33;"

The inveterate wanderer breathes deeply, cooling his rising temper. A gloved hand opens the next book on the stack, and weary eyes begin to skim.

He barely looks up when the young fey queen addresses him.

"What?"
*Instead of irritation at the curtness of his answer and disregard for her position, Klea smiles fondly and her great grey eyes drink in the sight of him with a special sort of joy. Breathing in she holds out the message to him.*

"Ramarren, this came from Sassanian Empire... What make you of it?

*Worry and anxiety which she would never show anyone else is bright in her eyes as she waits for him to survey the letter&#39;s contents and speak his judgement.*

[Pretty Boy of Evil]

<Ramarren>

A thick wad of phlegm noisily coughed up by the aged warrior sails over a stone desk and strikes the floor. At least Ramarren didn&#39;t spit in the queen&#39;s direction.

Gloved hands open the document and tired eyes scan it quickly.

"It&#39;s crap. All of it. As for this Prince Limperdick you are supposed to marry, he sounds about as delightful as a nice bath in snot. If you&#39;re feeling your brass knobs, outright refuse. Otherwise, just put the little bastard off. These Sassanians sound like goddamned boors, anyway. They can bugger off."

[Ayumi]

Puts Taboo into a stall and walks back to the castle, his walk a bit swift as he makes his way to the front door, his parchment at hand in case anyone is to ask. He searches around the castle, grabbing a guard that was busy picking his nose and grins charmingly shoving the parchment in his face.

"Wheres the Queen?" he barked though his face was calm and mannerly looking

"In her quarters sir"

Caam touseled his hair and nodded "Thank you good sir" he winked and jogged up the stairs, trying to remember exactly how the castle was laid out. He made his way to her room and knocked briskly on the door.

"M&#39;Lady, it is Caam Grant&#33;"

*The Door slowly opens to reveal a maiden in service to the Queen, dressed in robe over night gown*

"Her Ladyship was asleep my lord, til thy knocking did awake her... but if you will await I will see if she wishes to rouse from laying a-bed to greet thee."

*Not waiting an answer she slips back behind the door, closing it trying to find her mistress.*

************************************************** ******************


<Ramarren>
"It&#39;s crap. All of it. As for this Prince Limperdick you are supposed to marry, he sounds about as delightful as a nice bath in snot. If you&#39;re feeling your brass knobs, outright refuse. Otherwise, just put the little bastard off. These Sassanians sound like goddamned boors, anyway. They can bugger off."

*Klea smiles at his familiar way of speaking before moving closer, stepping around his expectoration with no dismay, and takes his roughened hand within her own so soft, smooth and dainty.*

"I fear for my Kingdom, friend. There are whispers that the Sassanians are working on a way to fuel there ships without the magic from the portal streams. Should they find a way to do that... Nothing will keep them from flying at Medias res, armed for war and conquest and if these attempts are of any signifigance, Murder of the royal family... including myself.

I can face Death... Even be ready for it... But my people, what would become of them? Dear Ramarren, it seems I must build an Army and I need you at my side to do it... Will you stand with me?"

*She leans close to him as she speaks and her forehead nearly touching his&#39;, she peers into his eyes, her own as solem and intense as a stormy sky.*

[Pretty Boy of Evil]

<Ramarren>

As the queen moves uncomfortably close Ramarren quickly sidesteps, putting the stone table between them.

*Strange woman.*

"Bah&#33; Do I look like a soldier, Klea? A knight who gives a damn about such things as &#39;people&#39;? If you have such a big problem with these upstarts and their ships, then find the builders of these ships and slay them in their beds. Have their families brought to Medias Res put to the question. And while you&#39;re at it, do for their prince whom they have so charmingly requested you marry. The hell with a grand army and a great war. Show them that the real power of Medias Res is its resolve, its will to respond to such vile insolence not on the battlefield but in their homes and safe places."

[CaamGrant]

His hand lifted to say something to the maiden before the door slammed in his face. A shocked sort of look on his face as he stared blankly at the wooden door. His brow quirked lightly and his eyes narrowed a bit. She was acting odd. Getting an unsettling feeling he leaned against the door frame, his curiousity running amuck, he shakes it off and leans his head against the frame. Ready to get their meeting over with so he can go to the kitchen and drink some brandy.

He hated waiting, but, she was the Queen, it was her castle... she could make him wait as long as she wanted.

[Ayumi]

(OOC) : Hey On Silent Wings, I know you added a post and I saved it so it is still in existence but I think we should talk about the major plot changes you wish to make. There is a story line already present and if you wish to place some imput as the GM I would love to hear it so I can work things around it.... Stories have a hard time working if the GM Doesn&#39;t know about a new segment in it... So Let&#39;s have a chat&#33; :)

[Jimbo]

OOC: Sorry school started again and I have very little time.....aside from that Gundbound is just taking up so much of my time...it&#39;s like crack only cheaper.

BIC: Jerii gave a small yawn and listened in to what Quinn had mentioned. He then heard her comment and gave a chuckle to himself, then both Masa and Mune laughed. He stretched his arms and then began to stroke his chin.

"I&#39;m sure the Queen&#39;s got alot on her mind, after all she hasn&#39;t even ruled Media Res for a year, let alone a month," Jerii said "But I know she&#39;ll be alright, she just has that presence about her that makes you feel okay about things."

Jerii smiled and then stood up to stretch his legs.

"We should get going, it is getting late and you need to wake up early for your training," Masa replied.

"Yeah, talking to you while you&#39;re grumpy is one thing, but to be psychically linked while you&#39;re grumpy is another." Mune joked.

Jerii nodded his head and strapped Masamune to his back.

"Hey Quinn, Jean, I&#39;m gonna turn in for the night," Jerii replied "It&#39;s getting late, and I want to get a fresh start on the new day."

He then headed out the door, but then popped back into the banquet hall.

"Hey, if you guys want, we can meet in the town square tommorrow, and just hang out," Jerii smiled "We&#39;ll meet after breakfast, okay?"

Jerii gave his friends a thumbs up and left. He began to whistle a tune as he walked back into the barracks, until her heard footsteps in the distance. He knew he should be getting to his room but the curiousity began to build up to a point where he just had to follow the sound. The footsteps stopped, but Jerii remembered the direction of the sounds. He past some bushes and came across a pond, he thought this was probably a pond used for swimming by the royal family, so Jerii was careful not to mess up any of his surroundings. He saw a figure by the pond, and Jerii tried hard to make it out, the blackness of the evening made it hard for him to make out who it was.

"What are you doing here?" A familar voice called, it was the figure.

Jerii sighed with relief, but was on his guard, the voice was Kenji&#39;s....

[Ayumi]

<Ramarren>

As the queen moves uncomfortably close Ramarren quickly sidesteps, putting the stone table between them.

*Strange woman.*

"Bah&#33; Do I look like a soldier, Klea? A knight who gives a damn about such things as &#39;people&#39;? If you have such a big problem with these upstarts and their ships, then find the builders of these ships and slay them in their beds. Have their families brought to Medias Res put to the question. And while you&#39;re at it, do for their prince whom they have so charmingly requested you marry. The hell with a grand army and a great war. Show them that the real power of Medias Res is its resolve, its will to respond to such vile insolence not on the battlefield but in their homes and safe places."

*Dropping her hands gracefully she looks at her long time friend with saddened eyes.*

"My Dear Ramarren... Is that truely what must be done to rule as Queen? I can scarcely fathom it. Yet...Medias Res has been at peace for thousands of years, I would do anything to preserve that peace, even if I must compromise the sanctity of life and even that of diplomatic relations.
I will put them off as best I can, play their suit against that of other Kingdoms&#39;.. Should they press the issue, and mark me I pray that they do not, and if it is they who threaten our lives and liberty then perhaps what you council might have to be done."

*Sighing she hesitates before asking*

"Do you think it is within your ability and or your grace to aid me in searching out who is behind these attempts on my life? I have been lucky thus far, but should they meet with sucess in the short future, the portals to all other realities shall collapse... Their ships can sail to the ends of the galaxies but cannot enter the places my portals can."

*watching him with a measured gaze she is silent and only when the pattering of feet race towards the library and frantically tap upon the door does she glance away.
At the Door is her own Lady in Waiting, who quickly relays the news of Her Father&#39;s Cousin&#39;s arrival and his patient waiting in her Audience chamber for her return.
Klea Dismisses the Maid back towards her bed chamber and waits but a moment longer for Ramarren&#39;s responce.*

[Ayumi]

OOC: On Silent Wings,

Why won&#39;t you private message me? I think if you are planning a full scale war against Medias res you should know about weapons tech and all that... Gunpowder is absolutely useless and it is very hard to try to poison the food and water supply because you don&#39;t know how things are set up.

[Jimbo]

Jerii got in a defensive position, still unaware of what Kenji was planning. Kenji gave a snicker and gave a hand gesture, meaning to be at ease.

"Don&#39;t worry, I don&#39;t feel like fighting right now," Kenji said "You still haven&#39;t answered my question..."

Jerii ease himself up a bit, even though Kenji attacked him earlier, he decided to trust him letting his guard down.

"I thought I heard something in the distance, so I decided to check it out," Jerii said.

"Are you really going to trust this guy?" Masa said.

"He did whoop your butt in the jousting competition," Mune noted "Even though he was DQed."

"I&#39;m sure there&#39;s an explanation for that," Jerii replied "Try to lay low, I have a feeling he can tap into our link....I don&#39;t know why though."

"We were thinking the same thing....strange," Masa and Mune replied.

Kenji folded his arms staring at the pond, and the way the moon&#39;s light reflected upon the water&#39;s surface. He then turned to Jerii ready to speak again.

"So how was the banquet....is the palace as grand as I heard it to be?" Kenji asked.

"It&#39;s great, I can&#39;t believe I was able to actually get in," Jerii said in an exciting tone.

"I see...." Kenji trailed off.

"Well, I&#39;m sure she would have invited you two, if you didn&#39;t go and disqualify yourself," Jerii replied "While we&#39;re on the topic why did you do that?"

"I thought I made myself clear...." Kenji said "We are two warriors, destined to fight man to man, not on some horse with sticks."

"What are you talking about&#33;" Jerii exclaimed "I am no warrior, I am a squire to the kingdom of Media Res&#33;"

"There you go again, waving around your loyalties&#33;" Kenji barked back "Have you accepted the power that has been given to you yet?&#33;?"

"What power?" Jerii questioned "You have to be kidding me."

"I see you have not embraced the full power of that sword your carrying..." Kenji sighed.

"Wait...how....do you know about my sword&#33;" Jerii exclaimed.

"You three bicker too much, it&#39;s easy for me to sense," Kenji smiled.

"But..you&#39;re not psychic....Quinn&#39;s the only one I know that&#39;s telepathic..." Jerii said.

"I&#39;m not telepathic, but like you I have....my secrets," Kenji said.

Kenji then began to unsheath this sword, Jerii never noticed the black tint on it. The moon seemed to bring out the true color of his sword. He held it out, but not in an attack position. Kenji grasp the hilt tightly and pointed towards Jerii.

"What...what are you up to&#33;" Jerii growled.

"It&#39;s been a long time..." A voice echoed inside Jerii&#39;s head.

"It can&#39;t be&#33;" Masa and Mune exclaimed.

"What....who is that?&#33;?" Jerii said.

"I&#39;m Oni, Masa and Mune&#39;s closest friend, and comrade," Oni replied.

[Becky Grant]

Moving along a swift moving cue, Becky hums softly to herself and rests a slender but strong hand on her slowly growing belly. Though her stamina is waning as the early stages of pregnancy advance, her movements are still maked with the easy grace of profound strength and today slides with great enthusiasm.

Tucking her shawl closer around her shoulders as though to conceal her precious extension she makes her way through the portal into the Main arrival gate in Medias Res. As soon as her papers were seen, her luggage was immediately taken to a Palace Guest room where her husband&#39;s belongings were already placed. Becky had only sat before there was a polite tap on the elegant doors of her exquisite joint chambers and a young boy entering with tea and light refreshments.

Would you know where Lord Grant would be that his wife hath arrived unwelcomed by him?

Becky held back a smile as she used the stern tone and the boy stammered and stumbled over his words before she laughed and admitted to teasing him. And so she sat alone with her tea after sending the page off to look for Caam with a light pat on the behind, when she thought of an outrageous prank to play on him.

Her eyes twinkling with Mirth she fetches a bucket and a stick

[Ayumi]

*After a quick teleport back to her rooms after her conferrence with Ramarren, she is quickly clothed in more ceremonious attire and Caam is allowed into the Private Audience chamber of Her Majesty Queen Klea of Medias Res.

And in her splendor she greets him, dressed in a rich wine velvet heavy with jewels and embroidery, Benevolent and Graciously.*

"At Last .... Welcome Uncle"

[CaamGrant]

*gives her a narrowed eyed look for a split second before walking in, his eyes darting around the room quickly before looking at her. His presence dark, his posture rigid as if the wait had worn on his patience, but his eyes twinkle in kindness for Klea* What have you sought me for M&#39;Lady?

*he leans against the wall, feeling a lot out of place as he looks down at her, his face showing hints of fatigue as he runs his hand through his dark hair and listens to what she has to say*

[Pretty Boy of Evil]

<Ramarren>

He considers her words, unimpressed by the implied threat. He turns back to regard the array of portals, his gaze an admixture of longing and hatred. When he returns to face the queen and question her further, she stands before him no longer.

Snarling he hurls the great old book from his writing desk, and finding his anger unabated, he upends the desk itself. Broken glass and little pools of ink dot the cold stone floor.

This is no choice, woman. You will not handle me like one of your idiot-brained courtiers.

In a rage-soaked instant Ramarren thrusts himself through the first open portal.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

OOC: I HAVE to say this. JERII&#33;&#33;&#33; GET YOUR RUMP OVER TO TM AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. And S*T also.....My rpg had to stop for a while since you weren&#39;t around. GRR. I had to shift people around just to get it moving. Now its two people left on the list to go, you and one other before we can really get moving.

BIC: Quinn distinctly heard Jerii&#39;s link chat with Masa and Mune and felt a chill down her spine at another voice. She couldn&#39;t fully hear the voice but it was enough to hear something that scared her. She rose a little abruptly and smiled down toward Jean Louis to show on the outside that things were alright,"Well...I think Jerii had the right idea Jean Louis. Hopefully we can meet tomorrow? Then we can train. We can verse Jerii and kick his butt at sword fighting or jousting. Its all fun though. Good night."

She bowed lightly and stepped back, around her chair and slipped unnoticed out of the doors and down the grounds, heading toward where the senses led her to Jeriis location. She was nearly there when she noticed she&#39;d forgotten to even get a sword or weapon of any kind and groaned quietly,"I&#39;m walking in empty handed.......why must I be an idiot?"

Shaking her head, she knew she wouldn&#39;t have time to gather her sword so she&#39;d just go there and hope she could help Jerii if something was wrong. The closer she got, the worst the feeling she got. It felt like when she had tapped Kenji&#39;s mind,&#39;Kenji&#33;&#39;

Ofcourse. Kenji was the one there. She broke into a sprint, reaching the edge of the trees around the pond in no time, enough to spot both boys standing there, green eyes narrowing,calling to Jerii telepathically,&#39;What does he want? He doesn&#39;t plan to do anything dumb does he?&#39;

Then to Kenji, her mental words chilled and more stiff,&#39;You better not plan anything. You haven&#39;t delt with me before. Either drop the sword, or face me.&#39;

Her mental words to Kenji were closed from Jerii, Masa and Mune and pointed only to Kenji and his sword, whom she couldn&#39;t miss,&#39;As for you sword spirit. If your such good friends with Masa and Mune, then why do I get the feeling that they don&#39;t like you?&#39;

[SGI]

Kain sat tranquilly on one of the balconies of the castle. He felt more peaceful ironically, having his trusty rapier sheathed by his side. Perhaps this was due to being in a situation that was familiar to him. Although he heard nothing since the last assassination attempt, he could feel it, the hushed conversations of the servants, the awkward clank of the guard’s armour, the cold whisper of the wind. Something was changing in this realm; something dreadful was going to occur.

Medias Res was changing, in body, mind and spirit.

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by CaamGrant@Jan 19 2004, 09:48 AM
*gives her a narrowed eyed look for a split second before walking in, his eyes darting around the room quickly before looking at her. His presence dark, his posture rigid as if the wait had worn on his patience, but his eyes twinkle in kindness for Klea* What have you sought me for M&#39;Lady?

*he leans against the wall, feeling a lot out of place as he looks down at her, his face showing hints of fatigue as he runs his hand through his dark hair and listens to what she has to say*
*Smiling graciously Klea keeps her eyes Level and calm under his gaze with a faint twinkle of old familiarity... The Chambers of the Queen are Glorious and elegant with no expence spared as to comfort or style. Holding her hand out she becons him to bow over her hand as is customary.*

"I have called you dear cousin because Medias Res has need for someone who knows the ways of war well.. someone like you."

[CaamGrant]

*bows over her hand with an odd grace for someone of his height, his eyes meeting back up with hers as he comes back up from the bow. A brow quirking as he hears the word "War". Blinks a moment and then wonders, if he&#39;s been called about war, what exactly Ricia is doing here. His eyes distance for a moment before he looks back at Klea.*

You have called the right man, I am at your service your highness.. for whatever you need me. Just tell me what you ask of me.. and you will not be turned down as long as it will not endanger my wife or our unborn child... All other is naught to me. What will you have me do?

[Jimbo]

OOC: Sorry Tora&#33; My internet gets messed up sometimes, Tux couldn&#39;t load for me, I try again today...bah why does my internet do this&#33; I&#39;ll also check in on S*T, I&#39;m sure that will load up.

BIC: Jerii listened to Quinn, he was surprised of her sudden appearance. He felt a little uneasy, seeing that Quinn was here, he would have to worry about anything that might happen to him and her. Jerii was on his guard, but then remembered Kenji didn&#39;t want to fight. But this spirit in Kenji&#39;s sword brought more questions to mind.

"I thought you guys were the only ones who were locked into a weapon," Jerii replied.

"We have heard rumors of some who have faced the same fate as us," Masa said "And it was our choice to be locked into this weapon."

Kenji glared his eyes, searching for Quinn throughout the brush. He shrugged his soldiers at her remark.

"I&#39;m not going to try anything funny," Kenji replied "I just want to get better acquianted with Jerii."

It was hard for Jerii to believe anything he said, but then again he has a talking sword, and now Kenji as well is an owner one. He still couldn&#39;t comprehend why the sword claimed to be friends of Masa and Mune.

"Young squire you know nothing of our past together," Oni snapped "Our history goes way back..."

"Yes it does...." Mune sighed.

"Quinn I think it&#39;s better for you to stay out of this, things could get complicated," Masa suggested.

"How does Oni know you two?" Jerii questioned "Why do I sense tension between you three, especially from Mune&#33;"

"It&#39;s a long story Jerii...." Mune said.

"You betrayed our friendship plain and simple&#33;" Oni shouted.

"You were the one who betrayed me&#33;" Mune replied in anger.

"Heh, I&#39;ve never sensed such anger from you Oni," Kenji chuckled "Wonder what Mune did to get you angry like this?"

"For once I agree with Kenji," Jerii said "We&#39;ve got all night, and you&#39;ll tell us what happened to you three right now&#33;"

"As you wish..." Masa replied.

[Tora_No_Unmei]

&#39;Masa I don&#39;t mind about complications. I&#39;m hanging around to make sure Kenji doesn&#39;t try anything, his word or not.&#39;

She finally steped out, arms folded stiffly, still dressed in the more formal wear but acting as though she were in normal squire clothes by the way she moved, as though about to deal out a punishment,&#39;As for you Oni. I don&#39;t care about your &#39;history&#39; with Masa and Mune. They don&#39;t like you, I don&#39;t like you. Get it through your head.

She turned her head to Kenji as though she were speaking towards him but went on mentally,&#39;And you don&#39;t need to speak outloud. I can easily carry a conversation between both of you and hear every word said. You play dirty so I&#39;m hanging around.

She glared hard in his direction, stepping until she stood a few paces closer in Jeriis direction but still watching Kenji closely,&#39;Masa-chan. Mune-chan. Let me just say before you two start your story about Oni and yourselves. Oni sounds like a moron. I don&#39;t like him much either way. But I&#39;ll always be around to help Jerii and both of you. Unlike Kenji. I thought he had honor at the fight. But I&#39;m learning hes cold blooded, much like many people I&#39;ve met.&#39;

She finally turned her gaze away, gazing past Kenji, toward the water, thoughtfully,&#39;Well? I have all the time in the world to hear this story. Lets get to it.&#39;

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by CaamGrant@Jan 20 2004, 10:04 PM
*bows over her hand with an odd grace for someone of his height, his eyes meeting back up with hers as he comes back up from the bow. A brow quirking as he hears the word "War". Blinks a moment and then wonders, if he&#39;s been called about war, what exactly Ricia is doing here. His eyes distance for a moment before he looks back at Klea.*

You have called the right man, I am at your service your highness.. for whatever you need me. Just tell me what you ask of me.. and you will not be turned down as long as it will not endanger my wife or our unborn child... All other is naught to me. What will you have me do?
*Her great grey eyes, which had been filled with sadness at not knowing if she could count on her dear Ramarren, brighten with delight and mischief*

"Ah... so it is true, the Great Caam Grant DID wed and is living in connubial bliss&#33; That I should live to see the day&#33;"

*Lets out a peal of laughter and laugh for a few minutes before it dies down to a gentle chuckle*

"Many a Maiden in Medias res will be very sorry to hear the confirmation of this Cousin. But I ofcourse am most pleased and extend my heartiest congratulations upon thee and my sincerest condolences on the Lady&#33;"

*Sends a maid to bring wine and some snacks*

"This Business will not endanger Your Lady Wife nor your blessed child, I need you to help me Organize Medias Res to ready for a possible war with the Sassanian empire.... I cannot speak too much on it at present, but there are dangerous happening afoot and though I would hope that a diplomatic solution can be met... I fear that things will come to ahead in a matter of arms.

You will be admitted to my High council for these tasks... Most of my council are good sorts but also very soft in the ways of war having never really entertained the prospect that it could ever come to Medias Res. I will ofcourse give you some authority over them. Use it well&#33;"

*Klea reaches out to relieve a servant of a glass of wine ... a Calenian wine from the store houses of reknowned sulphicus, efficatius in banishing care and inducing merriment... a Rare and incredibly expensive luxury.
She savors the taste, her clever eyes watching Caam&#39;s reaction*


************************************************** ******************

*Jean Louis Smiled in agreement to Quinn&#39;s suggestion before quietly moving into the courtyard to take a turn about the peaceful night before retiring, the silence and peace is disturbed as he overhears Kenji and Jerii... and soon Quinn...

Knowing it&#39;s not really polite to eavsdrop yet unable to help himself in case his new friends need him, he listens in.*

[squall_leonhart]

A young man man enters the palace and walk up to a guard
*I request a audience with the queen she sent me a message sayin that she requied my assistance*
the guard walks off
the young man thinks to him self
*he must be going to tell the queen im here i wonder what she needs me for she already has enough body guards maybee its on thing to do with this war stuff iv been hearing about*

[CaamGrant]

*caam once more narrowed his gaze, though a hint of amusement shown through as she picked at him for being married* Aye, Mlady Becky is quite the catch... though don&#39;t tell her I said that, she may think I actually like her *winks*

I will not abuse any priveledges you give me, and I appreciate it. I will get right to work, I want to meet my men and mayhaps get them into some training before the actual time of fighting comes. Though they may be great warriors here, fighting to fight, and fighting to battle are two different things, and if it is as you say, they don&#39;t understand they&#39;re training for battled. That has to be remedied. They need to understand the threat is very real. But, I do not know if that is my position or yours to confront. I will let you decide.

*grabs the other glass and winks some* Oh yes, and if you meet a man by the name of Ricia Dolan, do not allow him in the castle... he&#39;s trouble *hold back the mirth of his comment, knowing full well it will be hendering Ricia. Enjoys the taste of the wine but doesn&#39;t savor it as much as the Queen, instead chugs it down* Your country has some fine liquor. Speaking of which, before I leave and bid you goodnight, do you know where I can get a gallon of ale?

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by CaamGrant@Jan 23 2004, 12:29 PM
*caam once more narrowed his gaze, though a hint of amusement shown through as she picked at him for being married* Aye, Mlady Becky is quite the catch... though don&#39;t tell her I said that, she may think I actually like her *winks*

I will not abuse any priveledges you give me, and I appreciate it. I will get right to work, I want to meet my men and mayhaps get them into some training before the actual time of fighting comes. Though they may be great warriors here, fighting to fight, and fighting to battle are two different things, and if it is as you say, they don&#39;t understand they&#39;re training for battled. That has to be remedied. They need to understand the threat is very real. But, I do not know if that is my position or yours to confront. I will let you decide.

*grabs the other glass and winks some* Oh yes, and if you meet a man by the name of Ricia Dolan, do not allow him in the castle... he&#39;s trouble *hold back the mirth of his comment, knowing full well it will be hendering Ricia. Enjoys the taste of the wine but doesn&#39;t savor it as much as the Queen, instead chugs it down* Your country has some fine liquor. Speaking of which, before I leave and bid you goodnight, do you know where I can get a gallon of ale?
*Laughs delighted at his enjoyment of the wine and his fine wit... a Good Jest being something she can hardly resist.*

"Ricia Dolan? Well I can&#39;t un-invite him as it were. You didn&#39;t think you were the only one I sent for Dear cousin?....Now there is a Mission I wish you to lead. There are some elves in the forest region of Firenfeld who need liberation from brigands... Somehow I think it is more than mere rabble-rousers, something sinister and dangerous.
I wish you and your men luck, this quest will give you a chance to become aquainted with one another as well as have you know my Jean Louis. Do keep him safe, he is more precious than I can possibly express. Watch out for his friends as well, Squires Jerii and Quinn. They may need your care as well and I am TRUSTING you with them all. You and your army shall depart in 3 days. Good luck and if there is need of me whisper my name upon this stone and I shall hear thee.

*Passes Caam an intricately woven necklace of a rare and precious metal scripted spells carved into it with a priceless gem dangling from it. The Gem glitters as though hiding an inner fire.*

[CaamGrant]

*nods slightly at Klea* I will take care of them all to the best of my ability. I look forward to meeting everyone when we break fast in the morn. We will get to work then.

*he gave a bow and left her room without saying much. His lazy smile playing on his lips as he passed many a servant woman, greeting each of them all with a soft cool "evenin&#39; ". His mind trying to figure out where to get the gallon of ale, he remembered it IS after all a castle, and thus, should have spirits. He made his way to the practically deserted kitchen and looked through the cupboards until he found the ale. Snatching up a few bottles, he fit them snuggly between him and the waist of his pants. A Soft "Ahem" was made and he quickly turned around to see a servant woman, weighing about 280, and with a height of about six foot. He gasped lightly and put his best innocent look on his face*

"Yes Ma&#39;am?"

"Where do you think your going with that ale?&#33;"

He grinned softly and looked down at the two bottles in his hands and the two stuck in his waistband. "Aye M&#39;Lady, but I&#39;m throwing a party..."

"For who&#33;?" she stood her ground with her hands on her rotund waist.

"Well Ma&#39;am, " he drawled "I just felt I should celebrate the beautiful servants in this house... you are all breathtaking, and I thought, you and a few of the other beautiful maidens would like to join me in a drink... or 5... but, if you insist, it can just me be me and you" His smile was lazy as he gave her his most sincere appreciative once over, trying not to get sick at the thought.

She snorted until he gave her the once over and then she smiled some, "Open one up scrawny man, lets see what you&#39;ve got..."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*Caam looked at the servant woman who&#39;d insisted they drink till the death of them... he looked down at her head laying, cold passed out, on the table and stood up slowly. Looking at the 6 empty ale bottles, he steadied himself with the table and grumbled thinking that this, had to have been the worst 2 hours of his life. His stomach churned at the memory, which he hoped would be gone tomorrow, of having to ward off her advances, much to his horror she was strong, and it hadn&#39;t been easy.
He stumbled to the kitchen once again and grabbed a few bottles more of ale for Taboo... On the way to his place he stopped a servant.
"Good thir... " he mummbled lightly
"Y..yes sir&#33;?"
" Could you do me a biiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiggg favur??"
"Yes sir?"
"Give all oaf dese ale to Tavoo, in the stables" he proceded to hand the kid many of the bottles of ale
The kid shook his head "Your drunk sir it will only hurt your horse" Caam grabbed ahold of the front of his shirt and pulled him close, suddenly somewhat more sober, but still irritated, "Do it or i&#39;ll run you through boy&#33;"
the boy quickly nodded and ran towards the stable... leaving Caam to mumble by himself as he walked home, letting the cool air sober him up.*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
* By the time he finally made it to his room, he&#39;d interrupted 1 old man, a pen of pigs, and two rather ardent lovers... his walk must have taken the whole length of the castle. He was sober now, as he reached for the doorknob of his place, his head aching as he grouched about how much Taboo owed him. He opened the door*

[Becky Grant]

*It was nearly morning when the door slowly eased open and Becky sat up in bed as Caam stepped through the doors and Sploosh&#33;&#33;&#33; a whole bucket of water lands on his head. With a triumphant laugh Becky declares

"What took you so long, I nearly missed seeing that you great Lummox&#33;&#33;&#33;

[CaamGrant]

*His eyes fly open wide and he gasps in shock as the cold water sobers him up the rest of the way. He looked up at the bucket, it&#39;s cold droplets gently *SPLAT* ing on his head. Closes his eyes softly, a bit exasperated and shakes his head a little before letting the humor of the moment warm his hard features into a smile.

He shoots a look to his wife and, through the irritation, cannot help but give her a radiant smile. Radiant, yes, also dangerous, his smile wreaked of revenge*

"Oh you&#39;ll get yours... " *He growled before lunging at her and tickling her to tears, not worrying about what neighboring guestrooms would think as they heard the squeeling of his beautiful wife. Or the other loud noises coming from their room...*

[Ayumi]

*The sun flirted with the horizon, the gold of first morning rising to mingle with the shade of rose and blue, brushing away the traces of evening&#39;s escapades. The lone figure of the young Queen sits in her private balcony watching the sun&#39;s yawning progress across the sleepy sky lost in thoughts deep and contemplative, in her hand clutched is the letter from the Sassanian empire.
Sighing she mummered softly to herself*

"What is to become of it all? Shall I for the sake of Kingdom and people wed as I have vowed I shall never wed? That lovelessness and marriage for a queen should go hand and hand? My mother and father had no such marriage of simply good political sence... They had that elusive butterfly called love.

It seems best and prudent that Medias res should have one Mistress and no master, especially not a foreign master&#33;... One voice to speak... one column to support... one hand to deal the blows... and one shield to ward off the blows of Foreign conquest&#33;
Shall I live without meaning and die without gloried rebellion against those who seek to crush us under a strangle hold of fear? Nay&#33; We shall prepare for war and let those scoundrels know the stuff Medias Res and their Queen is Made of&#33;"

*Taking in a deep breath she rises and strides back into her bedroom rousing the maids who scurry to fetch their mistress clothing and jewels for the day. As quickly as can be done she sends for her High council to gather and turns to look at one of her favored maids.*

Hebe... Go fetch Sir Kain... I have need of him

[SGI]

Hebe, bowing to the Queen backed into the hall, sighing mentally to herself she shook her head. “Finding Sir Kain is quite a difficult feat, he is always vanishing everywhere.�

“Vanishing where?�

Hebe gasped frozen and turned around, staring to see the Dark Elf staring at her. Almost frozen in her place she began stammering. “Que…een…Kl..Kl…Kl..� Kain sighed to himself shaking his head. “Queen Klea wishes to see me? Regarding some development in the political atmosphere?�

Kain placed a hand on her shoulder walking past. “You have no need to be worried for yourself, you are doing your job just fine.�

Closing his eyes he walked away, his face hardening as he walked, gradually reaching the two large doors of the Queens chambers, his hand knocks on the door.

“Your Majesty Queen Klea, you have summoned me regarding something of significance? Perhaps a conclusion to your decision regarding an impending…conflict?�

[Ricia Dolan]

*grumbles some, his blue eyes gazing fiercely at the castle as he rides through the front gates. His patience was wearing quickly with Caam, and he found himself irritable and snapping at even the undeserving Falon. He gave a long sigh as he dismounted his steed and let the stableboy take him to a trough. Feeling a little stiff from sleeping on that straw bed, his back not use to such hardness, he&#39;d not complained anyway, if he were to prove himself, he&#39;d just have to live with it.

Comfort meant nothing in this trip, and he sighed slightly as he went into the great hall, thinking he&#39;d been greatly done unjust by having to play babysitter to a grown man. He, who had led armies into battle, who&#39;s name caused a quaking of knees in other distant lands, had to watch after a man who had much the same reputation. Though, he thought musing, Caam did it with a sort of insanity. No doubt the man didn&#39;t have his whole bag of marbles. But Ricia had to respect him and his drunkard horse all the same.

He found the breakfast room and sat down, quite pleased with the hospitality of the servants, though the food was good, his mind wasn&#39;t on it. He was searching for Caam.*

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by Ricia Dolan@Feb 6 2004, 09:24 AM
*grumbles some, his blue eyes gazing fiercely at the castle as he rides through the front gates. His patience was wearing quickly with Caam, and he found himself irritable and snapping at even the undeserving Falon. He gave a long sigh as he dismounted his steed and let the stableboy take him to a trough. Feeling a little stiff from sleeping on that straw bed, his back not use to such hardness, he&#39;d not complained anyway, if he were to prove himself, he&#39;d just have to live with it.

Comfort meant nothing in this trip, and he sighed slightly as he went into the great hall, thinking he&#39;d been greatly done unjust by having to play babysitter to a grown man. He, who had led armies into battle, who&#39;s name caused a quaking of knees in other distant lands, had to watch after a man who had much the same reputation. Though, he thought musing, Caam did it with a sort of insanity. No doubt the man didn&#39;t have his whole bag of marbles. But Ricia had to respect him and his drunkard horse all the same.

He found the breakfast room and sat down, quite pleased with the hospitality of the servants, though the food was good, his mind wasn&#39;t on it. He was searching for Caam.*
*Jean Louis sat smiling at the breakfast table. He was an early riser and had been that way since he and the Queen were children, when she would drag him from bed to see a particularily beautiful sunrise. No other sunrise would be quite as beautiful she would exclaim and never able to refuse her smile he would stumble and fumble down the corridors to the East balcony.... The Balcony of the Queen.
Jean Louis imagined what made her different from her mother and all the past queens and even the other Faeries was her passion for living. He didn&#39;t suppose she would ever loose that no matter her age.
Smiling he looks up from his goblet of hot cocoa to see another man finding a seat at the tables. As was his way he gave a cheerful wave welcoming him to breakfast with him.*

************************************************** ******************


Hebe, bowing to the Queen backed into the hall, sighing mentally to herself she shook her head. “Finding Sir Kain is quite a difficult feat, he is always vanishing everywhere.�

“Vanishing where?�

Hebe gasped frozen and turned around, staring to see the Dark Elf staring at her. Almost frozen in her place she began stammering. “Que…een…Kl..Kl…Kl..� Kain sighed to himself shaking his head. “Queen Klea wishes to see me? Regarding some development in the political atmosphere?�

Kain placed a hand on her shoulder walking past. “You have no need to be worried for yourself, you are doing your job just fine.�

Closing his eyes he walked away, his face hardening as he walked, gradually reaching the two large doors of the Queens chambers, his hand knocks on the door.

“Your Majesty Queen Klea, you have summoned me regarding something of significance? Perhaps a conclusion to your decision regarding an impending…conflict?�

*Klea stood before Kain silently for a moment while her maids finished settling her jewelery around her limbs and neck. Her great grey eyes hold dispair the way the sea holds water and shimmers faintly of a knowlege of what she must do.*

"Indeed I have summoned you on an occation of grave importance... But come let us speak in some privacy."

*The Young Queen quietly leads Kain into her balcony where the sun reigns over the sky and the blue of the sky heralds joyous courage to overcome darker clouds. And there she smiles breathing deeply before she speaks.*

"War is inevitable my dear Kain. So it seems that we must prepare for an attack against the Sassanians. I am to make certain that Medias Res is ready to meet them head on.
I will need some... information.... And for this I turn to you. Is it within your power to complete this mission for me? To Gain access to the Sassanian court and retrieve the status of their Ship fuel research and the strength of their military? The fate of Medias res lies heavily on such knowledge.

*Gazing into his eyes she awaits his response to her proposal of such a dangerous and difficult mission.*

[SGI]

“I gained access to your court didn’t I?� Kain looked up into the sky for a moment before returning to looking straight into the Queen’s eyes.
“I’m sure since war is approaching, the Sassanian’s will be looking for as many allies as I can gain. And I’m sure an alliance with the Dark Elves would be of great value.�

Calmly pausing for a moment he nods to himself.
“What sort of information are you after precisely. I’m assuming military movements by default. But assassination is alway possible as a...bonus.�

[Ricia Dolan]

Looks at Jean Louis and gives a soft groan at the thought of someone being friendly to him at the moment, his own thoughts not jumping with enthusiasm as he things about conversing with anyone of foreign culture to him. They Innkeeper last night had been hesistant to even take him in. He&#39;d have to agree, he&#39;d be less than willing too, if one like himself refused to show his face.

Many looks of the other diners told him that others were thinking him a strange sight as well. His baggy attire left much to be desired and his own stocking upon his head, made it impossible to make out his features, even his hair color was kept secret by those he didn&#39;t know. His masks and stockings giving him just enough room to see, smell and eat.

He nodded to Jean in an odd gesture of thanks as he set down his plate. Guesses this would be as good a place to start as any on any questions he may have; though none formed outright in his mind.
"Good Morn."

[CaamGrant]

Yawns loudly as he shifts under the blankets, his arm tightening around the soft lady beside him. The kiss to the back of her head is wholehearted yet laced with exhaustion as he rolled over and sat up, pushing his dark hair out of his eyes as he squinted at the bright sunlight beaming through the window.

He half heartedly groaned as the sun brought a powerful pain shooting through his head, a loud reminder of what happened when he got overly zealous with his drinking "I hate mornings", he whined, momentarily sounding like a child before he threw his legs over the side of the bed and let his feet land on the cold floor, he shivered a moment "I REALLY hate mornings....". His hand reached behind him and gently smacked Beckys butt. "I&#39;ve got to go to break fast and meet my men....would you care to join?" the last part sounded a little more hopeful than he&#39;d like it to have come out but shrugged it off, standing to get clothed. His effort ceasing after he got his pants on to drop back onto the bed, waiting for his wife&#39;s answer.

[Jimbo]

OOC: *Dusts away all the cobwebs on the computer* I&#39;m back T.T Sorry to keep everyone waiting (Tora that means you T.T) I went on a trip to the Phillippines, and then when I got back home and I was ready to post, my computer was filled with viruses and spyware&#33; Yay for me&#33; I had to flush them out and had to catch up with school before I was given any free time to do anything. I&#39;m back and ready for business, I know it&#39;s been a while, but I&#39;ve got some ice cream with me and lots of ideas, sorry again, and I&#39;m glad to see all of you again&#33;

BIC: *Previous night*

Jerii leaned back still awaiting for the response from the three spirits. He could almost feel the tension between all three, and was eager to learn of the past he was hidden from ever since he got the Masamune.

"Where to begin....let&#39;s see it&#39;s been well over 200 years hasn&#39;t it," Masa sighed.

"Yeah it has, and the scar is still here," Mune huffed.

"Don&#39;t try to get us to feel sorry for you Mune, you know as well as I do that I have the same scar&#33;" Oni growled.

"Calm down, Masa maybe it&#39;s best if you tell the story," Jerii commanded.

"I agree, hold your tongue Oni," Kenji replied.

The two spirits fell silent, and awaited for Masa to continue.

"I&#39;m pretty sure it was during the rule of Queen Klea&#39;s mother, Queen Arete," Masa continued, "Yes...it was a very joyous reign."

"Mune and I were orphaned at a very young age, our parents weren&#39;t ready for the responsibility of a family so we were left on foot of the gate to Media Res. The gate guard found us and took us in as his own. His name was Sir Windell, a very kind and gentle man. When we got old enough to hold our own, he took us into the Knight Academy. He didn&#39;t want us to become knights, rather continue our eduacation and maybe become a rich merchant or alchemist. It was Mune and I&#39;s desire to follow in our caretaker&#39;s footsteps. We looked up to him as a father, and were very honored that he took us in when he could have left us for dead. As we trained in the academy we came across a young lad by the name of Oni Alucard. He too was orphaned and was being taken care of by one of the Queen&#39;s attendants. We felt a sort of connection to each other, and spent most of our time together. Mune and Oni were especially close, as I was more into my studies than into playing. Soon we were young men, vibrant with life, and we were ready to become true knights of Media Res. It was then that Mune and Oni had been sucked into a dreadful downward spiral...."

"Go on.." Jerii replied.

He could hear Masa taking short breaths, and halted his eagerness. He knew that the spirits loved to talk but for some reason, this was taking alot of Masa&#39;s energy just to tell a story. Jerii knew that this was a very big burden, and hoped there would be some sort of resolution he could find at the end of the story.

"Sorry, it&#39;s been so long..." Masa said, "Where was I...oh yes, it was a beautiful day. It seemed like nothing could have made our day any more perfect. It was on that day...Mune layed his eyes on Queen Arete. She was simply stunning, and it was surprising to see her walking amongst her subjects in the town square. Music was playing by a nearby bard, and Mune noticed that the Queen was enjoying the tune.

"Why don&#39;t you ask her to dance?" I said.

"You&#39;re joking right, you do know who we&#39;re looking at here," Mune joked.

"No I think you should go for it&#33;" Oni urged.

"But I know you&#39;ve got a thing for Queen Arete too&#33;" Mune stammered "Besides you see her almost everyday, she knows who you are, I mean having a royal attendant to the Queen gets you near her everyday&#33;"

"That&#39;s true, but we&#39;re best friends, I think you should have some fun," Oni smiled "Go on, I don&#39;t mind."

Oni and I pushed Mune into Queen Arete, and it was then that Mune began to blush. He began to stutter at first but finally got the courage to ask the Queen for a dance. She too was young and so full of life, and that irresistable smile could slay any man&#39;s heart. Mune and the Queen danced for hours, and as I noticed, Oni began to get a little irritated. I didn&#39;t want to make a big fuss about it, so I told Mune that it would be best if we should go, it was near dinner time. Mune parted ways with the Queen, and was so excited that he was blessed with her presence.

"She&#39;s more beautiful in person don&#39;t you think," Mune sighed.

"Yeah," Oni said with a low tone.

"Oh man, I....I didn&#39;t mean anything&#33;" Mune apologized.

"It&#39;s no biggie buddy," Oni smiled "Look, our friendship comes first, and we&#39;re not going to let something like this get between us yeah?"

"Yeah, and the best man should go for the Queen," Mune replied.

"Right, so when we become knights, and if we get assigned to different areas, make sure our friendship will come first," Oni said "And when we come back with gifts to the Queen, let&#39;s promise to have a duel."

"Not a duel to the death, but until one cannot defend himself any longer," Mune added "A duel for Queen Arete, this will ensure that the best man goes after the love of the Queen&#33;"

"Deal, this is a promise between men," Oni replied extending his arm.

"Deal," Mune said firmly shaking Oni&#39;s hand.

"Masa, you are the witness to this promise alright, so don&#39;t forget what we said?" Oni said.

"Gotcha," I answered "Every word is right here."

I knocked on my head to tell them I will remember this moment. And so it came to pass and we were knighted by the Queen herself for bravery and valor against an army from a ruthless land. I stayed behind and was the tactical advisor for the Armies of Media Res, I was never really a fighter anyways. Oni and Mune became high ranking Generals and ventured into unknown lands in the name of Media Res and Queen Arete. They told me before they left that they would return in two years, and come back on the very day they made their promise. If the Queen was not to be wed in two years they would have their duel....and so time passed and two years had gone by. It was the day before that pact was made, and I was anxious for thier arrival. I was surprised to recieve word of Masa&#39;s return, and soon afterwards Oni made his appearance as well. They brought back many gifts, and stories with them. They seemed more experienced and wiser than when they left, the time out in the world did them good.

"Why are you guys back so soon?" I asked.

"We just couldn&#39;t wait to get back, so I hear...the Queen is still not married?" Mune smiled.

"Is it true?" Oni asked eagerly.

"Yes the rumors are true," I replied with excitement.

"It&#39;s settled then," Oni said extending his hand.

"Tommorrow we duel, in our usual spot, by the lake," Masa confirmed "As soon as the sun rises we will fight for Queen Arete."

"Don&#39;t hold back," Oni said "When I beat you I want to make sure you put all your heart in the fight."

"I was suppose to say that&#33;" Masa laughed.

Masa shook Oni&#39;s hand and the deal was sealed in stone. I was to oversee the battle and make sure no foulplay nor interferance would tip the scales of the fight. But fate had another thing in store for us.....that very night changed our entire lives...the night before the fight....something happened....to both Mune and Oni....


OOC: Cliffhanger?&#33;?&#33;? Well maybe not but I&#39;ll post tommorrow with the results, I have much work to do&#33;

[BeckyGrant]

Originally posted by CaamGrant@Feb 13 2004, 01:20 PM
Yawns loudly as he shifts under the blankets, his arm tightening around the soft lady beside him. The kiss to the back of her head is wholehearted yet laced with exhaustion as he rolled over and sat up, pushing his dark hair out of his eyes as he squinted at the bright sunlight beaming through the window.

He half heartedly groaned as the sun brought a powerful pain shooting through his head, a loud reminder of what happened when he got overly zealous with his drinking "I hate mornings", he whined, momentarily sounding like a child before he threw his legs over the side of the bed and let his feet land on the cold floor, he shivered a moment "I REALLY hate mornings....". His hand reached behind him and gently smacked Beckys butt. "I&#39;ve got to go to break fast and meet my men....would you care to join?" the last part sounded a little more hopeful than he&#39;d like it to have come out but shrugged it off, standing to get clothed. His effort ceasing after he got his pants on to drop back onto the bed, waiting for his wife&#39;s answer.
*Grinning at Caam&#39;s whimsically puppy hopeful tone she rubs her eyes and stretches before peeking at him over her shoulder.*

"Hmm... Lay in bed comfortable and warm with break fast brought to me... Or get dressed and have to travel downstairs to sit amongst ravenous soldiers and endure their morning mayhem for the sake of your company?"

*Becky pauses long enough to watch his expression grow crest fallen, before crab-crawling out of bed to accomodate her rounding tummy and changing into her day wear.*

"I haven&#39;t been in your company for days you great Lummox... ofcourse I want to have breakfast with you&#33; Now get your lazy bum dressed, the "royal we" are hungry&#33;&#33;"

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Feb 10 2004, 01:10 PM
“I gained access to your court didn’t I?� Kain looked up into the sky for a moment before returning to looking straight into the Queen’s eyes.
“I’m sure since war is approaching, the Sassanian’s will be looking for as many allies as I can gain. And I’m sure an alliance with the Dark Elves would be of great value.�

Calmly pausing for a moment he nods to himself.
“What sort of information are you after precisely. I’m assuming military movements by default. But assassination is alway possible as a...bonus.�
*The young Queen studies her dark elf with a grateful smile. Reaching out, she gently takes his hand giving him a boost of power.*

"The information I desire is not of the military alone... I need to know in greater detail the ways and personal weaknesses of the King and his son. Ways of twisting their arms into gaining desired tactical results. Becareful with assasination my Moor, I should not like to loose you at all, though you know..."

*Her smile is touched with mischief as she winks at him*

"...I can always ressurect you...

[TodayIsMine]

Ayumi, you should get another RPG started some time soon. I&#39;ve got an image of an adventure kind of like the Inu-yasha one. People meet up by destiny and then go through an adventure together. Tell me weather you think that&#39;s good or not... :)

[TodayIsMine]

Ayumi, you should get another RPG started some time soon. I&#39;ve got an image of an adventure kind of like the Inu-yasha one. People meet up by destiny and then go through an adventure together. Tell me weather you think that&#39;s good or not... :)

[Ayumi]

There are several rpgs in the works Flame demon, but please don&#39;t post comments like this in the middle of an RPG thread. You have an oppinion, you send it to me via Private message. Also don&#39;t double post. Thanks - Ayumi

[SGI]

Kain’s eyes narrowed, as slowly, a smirk formed on his lips. Looking towards her he chuckled. “I most certainly like your style of thinking, your highness.� Placing his fingers through his own hair he let his digits slip through the mass. “I will ensure their survival if I must…�

[TodayIsMine]

Drgn had come to the gates of Medias Res, with no knowledge of this kingdom. He waited outside the gates for someone to direct him to the nearest pub or market. He waited for a few minutes in search of someone to help him. But after that time, he grew impatient. He scaled the gate himself and walked aroung the kingdom. He looked aroung to find the pub for himself. At last he had come to a local bar where he met a few villagers. He sat and ordered a drink for himself. Normally, Drgn didn&#39;t prefer to drink alcohol, but the his sadness of his loss, he thought it to be his only way of happiness. Then he saw an old man sitting at the bar. Drgn walked up to him to see his face; from behind he looked like a villager of Tenshi Kakariko. Just as he made his way to the man, a young, beautiful woman stopped him to talk. She asked him, "Hello, what is your name?" Drgn had never seen a woman so beutiful, he was stunned and speechless. "D...Drgn..." he answered.
He tried to walk past her to hold in his embarrassment, but she stopped him again. "Would you like me to show you something special?" she asked. Drgn hesitated, but carefully answered, "Yes, please." She brought him outside and gave him a tour of Medias Res. She brought him to a pond, a private, unknown pond. She began to slowly strip off her clothing, and was about to seduce Drgn. But just as she began her process of seduction, Drgn sensed a great evil presence in the air. The woman is evil, she will kill everyone in Medias Res if I don&#39;t kill her now&#33; Drgn thought. Her eyes turned red anmd her smile became a grin. Drgn swiftly pulled out his Tenshi and thrust it into her gut. Blood spilled from her stomach as she dropped to the ground.
Drgn seemed to have found a new home, or belonging, but knew that crime and evil was afoot here. In Drgn&#39;s mind, there was no security in this, his new home. He would have to make friends and allies quickly, and have them on his side for battle. He could smell a great evil approaching. Now he just has to tell the Queen...

[Ayumi]

Originally posted by SGI@Apr 4 2004, 09:16 PM
Kain’s eyes narrowed, as slowly, a smirk formed on his lips. Looking towards her he chuckled. “I most certainly like your style of thinking, your highness.� Placing his fingers through his own hair he let his digits slip through the mass. “I will ensure their survival if I must…�
*Klea nods slightly to her spy master and with dark concerns hidden she blesses him with protections as best she can weave and seals it with a kiss to his forehead.*

"Should you need me... I am a thought away... Make haste and caution my Moor. I await your reports

((OOC note:: Perhaps we can have Kain&#39;s adventure in the Sassanian court as a separate rpg. An adventure of Dark intrigue.... SGI let me know what you think through PMs :)))

And with that she makes her way down the shining halls of her palace followed by her Ladies in waiting all who as they pass wave cheerfully to Kain, most of them unknowing of the danger he will soon be immersed in.
Klea casts one final look behind her towards him, worry and concern sharp in her gaze... She would not let him die... He was one of her&#39;s now and she would always protect what was her&#39;s. Giving him a smile she continues to walk away towards other preparations of leading a slumbering country into the waking field of war.

[Vash The Stampede16]

*Gustav, an ambitious young archer for-hire waltz&#39; up to the gates of Medias Res and asks if they are in need of a mercenary*

[Ayumi]

*One of the Guardsmen looks down from his perch atop the gatehouse and nodding slightly gives the signal for Gustav to be let into the gates and led to where the mercenaries are being inspected for hire.*

You May Pass

*Leading The young archer in, they look over his gear and ask cagey questions dicerning his capabilities and his origins until at last they ask him what his asking wages are as they prepare a contract.*

What would you have for your services Friend? Speak and your terms will be considered.

[Vash The Stampede16]

::Gustav clears his throat::

"My terms are food, a bed to sleep on and a small fee. Except or decline, but please hurry."

[Ayumi]

*The man nods at Gustav&#39;s answer and a scribe takes it down and forms it into a contract. As the contract is handed over a slender figure marvelously robed in scarlet and gold silks can be seen with an entourage of chancelors moving along the catwalk of the Palace wall reviewing defences.
The contract is held out with a quill to be signed listing obligations of both parties and the pay involved.*

"Sign here if you will and welcome to the ranks of Medias Res&#39; legions."

[TodayIsMine]

Drgn came back to Medias Res, now a few months after his first visit. He was hoping for work or a place to stay, now that his family and friends had been killed. He waited at the gates to be noticed by a guard or gatekeeper. He wished to avenge his family&#39;s death in any way possible, so he decided he wanted to be a fighter for the army of Medias Res. This way, he would be defeating bandits and monsters of all sorts. Drgn waited patiently for somebody to find him standing out there, as he carried his dream of becoming a warrior of Medias Res.

[Ayumi]

*Finally a Guard calls down to Drgn with a wave of an armored hand*

Hail stranger state thy business please&#33; You are at the Gates guarding Palatina, the Capital city of Medias, Seat of Her Majesty Queen Klea and none shall pass without proper reason.

The Guard waits after his declaration for an answer from the stranger at the gates, his stern gaze watchful.

[TodayIsMine]

Drgn was happy to see the guard noticed him, and replied, Greetings, my name is Drgn, I wish to join the army of Medias Res. If you in need of fighters, simply for front line soldiers or warriors, I can aid you. I have a strong sense of smell, and I am currently in the process of training to increase my mana powers. I am half demon-half elf, and with my races bonded together, I hold talents and abilities that would surely be useful in battle&#33;
If you accept I will need food and shelter, anything else I can take care of on my own...I wish to fight for the kingdom, do you accept my offer, sir?

[Ayumi]

*The Guard studies him thoughtfully and giving the correct motion to the other guards the mighty gates of Medias Res open allowing Drgn to enter.*

All offers of service are first looked on by the leiutenant and if you are more than a mercenary foot solder, which you seem to be one of the generals will see where to place you.
Enter the third tent to your right to see about such things. Should you be found acceptable I welcome you to the ranks of the Elite force of Medias Res.

*with a cordial bow her motions him in through the gates towards the recruitment center and as Drgn walks through them he can have a glimpse of the Mighty Capital city Palantina with it&#39;s Palace of shining ivory towers and the city around which shimmers with wealth, good fortune and magic.*

[TodayIsMine]

I thank you for allowing my attendance in the recruiting. I promise o be loyal to this peaceful kingdom and I will do whatever is needed of me by the queen. Drgn thanked the guards and continued into the tent. Many potential warriors stood around awaiting their verdict. Drgn proceeded to the one in charge of the recruiting tent. He asked to apply as a fighter.

[Vash The Stampede16]

::Gustav looks over at Drgn and asks.:: "What are you here for? And what do you specialize in?"

[TodayIsMine]

Drgn took a quick glance at Gustav and replied, I&#39;m here to fight for Medias, I&#39;m applying as a fighter. I am able to do many things, so my expertise lies nowhere. I have an exceptional sense of smell, my hearing is better than a human&#39;s, and I can release waves of mana energy through my Tenshi (my sword).
I&#39;m curious to know something, Gustav...what are your abilities and what are your specialties.Drgn turned back to face the organizer of the applications and continued to apply for his position, and listened for Gustav&#39;s reply.

[Vash The Stampede16]

::Gustav looks back at Drgn and replies::
Well... my abilities lie in archery. My eyesight is the only keen sense i have. And my only special move is that i can shoot three arrows at once thus increasing my hit rate. i have also had an 80% hit rate throughout my life as a mercenary. I aslo have a secret close-range weapon.

[Darksword66]

Dark walk into the kingdom.
"Are you people still recruiting.Cause i think i&#39;ll try out for this thing"said dark as he sets his gun on his shoulder."It may prove to be inter taining"

[wing 7]

as he watched his grin grew on his face then he new watching was all he could do s creaming fools he ran away so far away and the ell he kept on falling what is this a dream a illusion or could i be dying waking uip from this weird vision he relised he hit his head the b little bump hert fe saw the people he was watching once again he grew tired so thus tired in body and tired of watching he left to never return again in the shadows he went off always to be known as the quit wing the wind man

[TodayIsMine]

"Hey, Gustav", Drgn said, "if we&#39;re recruited, how &#39;bout we stick together for a while...help each other out on the battle fields.."

[TodayIsMine]

Drgn was still waiting to be notified of whether he was chosen or not. He was very quiet and calm as he and Gustav were making small talk with each other, but he was anxious to know his status in the recruitment...