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Post by Venus on Mar 12, 2009 11:44:48 GMT -5
(Sorry I didn’t get this posted last night, I remembered at the last minute that today was actually results day for my modular exams, so I ended up going to sleep really early. I worry too much, as some of you lot will probably realize by now. xDD So, yeah. I’ve stopped panicking, put writing on hold, and sat down to get these done. And now, I’m going for a run. ^.~) “These caves stink.” She earned a few sidelong glances for her grumbled comment, but Chiyo paid them no attention as she pushed her way through the bustling crowd. Lanterns swung, flickered and creaked above their heads, pinned into the rock by spell and metal peg. The wide underground cavern was bursting with people. Today, the merchants from Outside had arrived with their wares. They were laid out on bright carpets, complete with scrawled messy signs and curling prices in the old hand. Curious shoppers, humanoid and not, crowded around the more popular stands – spellbooks, amulets, potion ingredients. Bartering and the crashing sound of the waterfall provided a background hum, and the constant exchange of hungry and happy customers went on and on in the conjoining passages. New visitors walked into the space wide-eyed, while others left with arms piled high and grins to match. ‘Why do I even bother?’An eager woman shoved Chiyo bodily into the wall on her way to a deal. She glared after the disappearing figure, brushing herself off, and carrying on towards her goal. The Brew Bar, that well-known drinks establishment, had taken advantage of a natural crevice. Every cave-wise member of the Rebellion knew that if you wanted a stiff drink, a cup of moss tea or just a meeting with one of the regulars, the waterfall cavern was the place to go. Finally stepping around the last of the shoppers, she looked up at the tumbling force in question; it rumbled from above, twisting from the end of the underground river (which was, oddly enough, found higher up in the cave system) and falling all the way down – down and down and down, right to the very bottom of the caves, where it formed a lake. No-one needed to say how dangerous a swim could be; not since Grigor disappeared, at least. ‘Poor lad.’Chiyo glanced over her shoulder at the shoppers – magicians and fighters, all – taking in the smooth, spherical shape of the space. This cavern was only a bubble in the rock; the largest the Rebel faction could find in the underground system, but it was definitely enough for the Outsiders to be impressed. It didn’t stop them trading with the Rebellion, at least, and that was good enough for the high-ups. Sliding sideways through the thin entrance of the Brew Bar, Chiyo shifted the weapon holdster reflexively and looked around the cramped space. A few regulars, lounging across carved tables and stone slabs. Some new faces, from Outside. Sidling over to the vendor, she sat, ordered a cup of weak algae tea, and relaxed. ‘Might as well, while I have time. It can’t be long ‘til the patrols are sent out, and I want ta be ready.’Her hand moved around the grip the long fabric case, slung across her back. ‘Raiden’s goin’ ta get it, for sure.’Meanwhile, higher up in the cave system… “What do you mean, the Faction leaders won’t see me?!” The guard regarded the loudmouth coolly, sliding a thumb along the length of his cutlass. “Exactly that. Go. Away.” The man simmered and sputtered, but his beady eyes were locked on the rusted blade. He eventually judged his life more important than his cause, and left – rather quickly. In the chamber, Jun sat back, breathing a sigh of relief. “Thank you, Gern. Dealing with Josef’s complaints about the Outsiders is the last thing I need right now.” The guard looked over his shoulder and nodded, stoic and silent. Jun rolled her armour-clad shoulders, looking up at the vaulted ceiling of their makeshift council chamber. Being one of the only Faction leaders on duty was trying – nothing could truly be done without the voice of the majority being present all the time. One of the downside of appointing a Voice. ‘But it can’t be helped that the most powerful are too eager to fight Raiden’s goons, than bother to have a consistent leadership.’Jun sighed, running a hand through her loose hair. Even though she held considerable personal clout over the fighters, it wouldn’t be right to make important decisions without consultation. Then, they would just be as bad as Raiden. Her weathered face morphed into a scowl. ‘But I haven’t enough time for this. The patrols have to be sent out. ’“Gern.” The guard turned again. “Summon the magicians. The Black Patrol. Raiden needs his reminder that there are those who still oppose him.” “Yes’m.” He clanked his way along the thin stone corridor and disappeared down the makeshift stairs. Jun sat back, and waited for the troops to arrive. (And, there you go! Interpret as you will - there is a vague plot, so I'll try and guide us in that direction. *nodnod* Hopefully I've left enough openings for characters introductions there, but as always, ask any questions you have. And when we've got the Rebellion sorted, I'll introduce the Rule point of view. Oh, and members of this mysterious 'Black Patrol' would be much appreciated.)
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Post by ryuu on Mar 12, 2009 14:16:30 GMT -5
(Neither of my charries would work as a member of the Black Patrol so I hope you dont mind me having a new one)
Riali, a member of the Black patrol was easy to recognise by the flowing black cloak and black armour she wore. they it looked heavy and uncomfortable it was made by a smith whose magic was to do with metle and could make the lightest and strongest armour of any one who existed at that time. She had heard there was a chance she would be called and since the place to find people was always the waterfall cavern, thats were she was at the moment. Riali was an odd looking creature, half human, half demon. Dont ask her how that came about though else she will bite your head off. Litrally. Her general shape was human, though she was very tall and strong. Her face was mostly human though patches were covered in red scales (and so was the rest of her). Her eyes were slanted and red and her pupils were just slits. Her teeth wre sharp and pointed. Great ragged, dark red wings like a bats grew out of her back and she had a thick black tail eneding in a wicked spike. Her ands ended in wicked claws, as did her toes.
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Post by Fury on Mar 12, 2009 17:19:00 GMT -5
(I was going to bring in my thief as a member of it, but instead settled for this guy: relative of the thief)
It had been a long time since Sephis had seen his brother and longer still since he had joined the Rebel's cause. He flashed himself a grin in the mirror has he pulled his long hair back into its usual warrior-style pony tail. The silver locks would have made him look old if not for his face: that of a twenty five year old. He pulled on his customary black tunic with its golden symbols sewn into the fabric and his silver crescent moon charm necklace. He pulled a few extra strands from the pony tail and let them hang in front of his oddly shaped ears in its own little spiral. The description of 'oddly shaped' was quite bluntly true. He was neither human nor elf, nor dragon, nor any other well known creature of lore but rather a part of one of the near forgotten ones. The ears were almost fins, sprawling out with little membranes in between were a deep ebony while the fin itself was a shade of silver just darker than his hair. He changed his pants and put on his boots quickly, all a suitable shade of black though as was optional he included much silver and even a little gold to claim individuality from the other members of the Black Patrol. "Summoned again... This only happens when one of the uppity-ups run into trouble. Wonder how bad it is this time?" he mumbled to himself as he left his room to answer the call. Sephis knew the others were on their way as well.
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Post by Serrion on Mar 13, 2009 9:57:54 GMT -5
Just a few moments after the man with the rusted dagger had been refused access to see the faction leaders, another approached the very same spot. He was a thin man ressed in robes of dark purple with silvery markings along his hood and down his chest. The hood covered his face from view, almost seeming unnaturally shadowy underneath where the only feature you could see were two piercing white eyes. Pupiless eyes like that of a blind man, though they glowed unnaturally. Despite his eyes he seemed to move with greater purpose than any in the area, every footstep certain that it would fall on solid ground, that he would not bump into walls or other people. His fingers were long and thin like the rest of his six foot four frame, he wore dark red gloves that covered them from sight just as the rest of his skin was hidden. He stepped before Gern, white eyes focussing cooly on the guard. "I request an audience with those who rule this establishment." He spoke with quiet raspy words, sounding like one who hadn't spoken for a very long time and almost slurring several words.
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Post by Fury on Mar 13, 2009 18:36:42 GMT -5
Sephis saw this man as he came around the corner, obviously having the same destination but with a summons. He pushed by both him and Gern without a word. The black clothing said it all. Black Patrol member passing. Respect it. Nobody usually dared to get in their way. However he felt bad for shoving past and spun around with a sigh. "I apologize, Sir, as I have been summoned and one does not ignore a summoning message. Forgive my impudence." He said with a half-bow to the man in the robes.
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Post by Venus on Mar 14, 2009 14:08:08 GMT -5
(Gern's gone to gather the troops, but the other guard is still there - hope that clarifies/compensates. xD) Andreas, the other guard, half-scowled, half-saluted as the man barged past. Some of these Black Patrol sorts just saw themselves as superior to every living thing, and it sewed resentment amongst the less influential magic-users. It was nice to know that some did possess some humility, even if it wasn't directed at guards. Turning back to the thin man, he straightened. "I'm afraid that the leaders are busy at the moment, but if you wait a few minutes or so, you may be able to speak with the current Voice of the council." &&& [/center] Back in the Brew Bar, Chiyo heard murmurings. News travelled fast, and it sounded like the Black Patrol were being summoned. Standing, she dusted off her tunic and moved towards the exit. The Faction leaders were out, and as far as she was aware, only Jun remained. She was sensible, so, maybe... Decided, the holster was adjusted, and Chiyo made her way back into the bazaar, towards the council chambers. This was one meeting she wasn't going to miss.
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Post by ryuu on Mar 14, 2009 14:15:36 GMT -5
Riali heard the rumers too and levered herslef slowly out of the chair she had been sitting in. She yawned and stratched, flexing her wings out as she did so and only naruly missing someones head as she did so. The rumers sounded resenuble and she had been expected a call some time soon so she decided to head off.
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Post by Fury on Mar 14, 2009 17:15:09 GMT -5
(sorry about that xD)
Sephis, who had returned to apologized smiled at Andreas then re-entered the room with another quick half-bow of respect. Then he stood by the wall of the inside of the chamber as he awaited the entry of the other members of the Black Patrol. ----- Also in the Brew Bar, a boy who's face was hidden by his hair smirked. He kept his head down as he sipped a drink and listened to the gossip spreading throughout. He put down some money to pay for his drink and then slipped out as easily as he came in. You'd think these people would invest in greater security... Wouldn't you agree, Kindra? he thought.
The response came only seconds later, directly inside of his thoughts. Yes... Seems your great older brother's group here aren't so wonderful after all. But if they- the Black Patrol, was it?- think this their summons is so important shouldn't we go check it out?
You can. I'll be to conspicuous. he replied to Kindra, getting a laugh from him.
Me? I'm a wolf. You do know that, right?
Wolf shifter. Just change to something smaller. I know you can do it... Even if you have limited forms.
Kindra seemed uneasy at the wish of the theif, but he complied with a sigh. Fine.
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Post by Serrion on Mar 19, 2009 13:49:22 GMT -5
The man in the robes took another step towards Andreas, white eyes focussed on him firmly. "I'm afraid a few minutes simply will not work. I have a very busy schedule to keep up and I will not stand to be delayed." He took his hand and motioned to himself. "I am Nervusuel, a member of the elder council of Ka'Valistanak. No, I am not surprised you've never heard of us. I am the ambassador who was sent here to parlay with your superiors, and no, there was no forewarning of my arrival. Secrecy was a necessity considering your current standings in these lands, secrecy that I was coming to meet with you." He took a long finger and pointed it towards his unseen face, his voice sounded very annoyed. It was the tone a very important person such as a noble took when they were being held up by those they judged under themselves. "You can tell me to wait again, nothing will stop you. But should I not be granted an audience with your superiors in the time I see fit, than I will take my business elsewhere. I am sure that Raiden would not delay an important audience with the ambassador of the elder council of Ka'Valistanak for such a time as 'the Rebellion' has. I am sure Raiden understands the importance of such an Alliance." He crossed his arms over his chest, the sleeves of his robes covering his hands again. "I am sure that if whatever they are busy with right now is so important, it would matter little if I only watched silently out of the way until they were finished, yes? Perhaps the annoyance of sitting out here waiting for my audience would lesson if I could at least listen with my own ears what is so important to them at the moment." During the last part his voice seemed to calm, he had not blinked once during that whole rant.
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Post by Venus on Mar 20, 2009 14:30:39 GMT -5
Jun glanced up and nodded shortly to Sephis as he entered, before returning to the scroll sitting inconspicuously on the sprawling wooden desk set in front of her. Whatever the simple swirls of ink contained, it was enough to make her frown. As the door to the chamber swung shut, she caught the end of the conversation between Andreas and the visitor, blown in on the draft. 'An ambassador? Visiting? Now? God, I'm going to kill the other leaders when they get back! Fancy not being here to greet an envoy?'Deciding to save the guard the trouble of answering, she raised her voice, armour clinking as she stood. "Send him in, Andreas, it's fine. The Patrol can wait while we deal with business. Unless the business is long and complicated, in which case I will hurry the Patrol along." Andreas cast a look over his shoulder, but pulled his hefty axespear from the doorway and stepped aside. The journals sitting on the desk were shut and shoved beneath a pile of papers. A quill was produced, and a fresh roll of parchment unfurled. She had to complete the records of the Patrol Summoning anyway, so why not record the meeting with this ambassador? The Rebellion Faction needed all the help it could get against Raiden. &&& The stairs were very steep. Quiet, as expected this high up in the cave system. But steep. Her thighs were beginning to burn when she reached the top, but Chiyo managed to slip by the outer guards and wards without being noticed. The shift of her weapon gave her away on the approach to the inner chamber, so she straightened and walked normally. There was the familiar shape of the personal guard, and what looked like a visitor...? Shrugging inwardly, she kept walking. Whatever the Faction leaders were up to, they would be told soon enough. Either that, or they would inevitably extract the information by force. There was too much at risk for anything to be left to chance, and the Black Patrol were a force to be reckoned with. They had to be, if they were to fight and win against the Twisted Knife and their assassins. 'What a lifestyle, eh?'(Sorry if that's a load of rubbish/random babbling that makes no sense. Just point stuff out if it's horrendously incoherent. xD And now, I'm going to catch up on some much-needed sleep. xDDD)
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Post by Serrion on Mar 20, 2009 15:06:26 GMT -5
The robed man folded his arms behind his back, stepping through the doorway without a further glance at the guard. He entered the room and took a glance around, blind eyes taking a deep look into those of whoever would meet them. His unwavering glare eventually met that of Jun. He brought both arms out wide, as if about to go in an embrace, and then did a strange sort of bow to her. "I am glad to see there are those in these caves that recognize the difference of one bringing important matters over those of the trivial. Jun is it? Seeing as none of the other leaders of the resistance are present I will have to make my introduction to you." He did not give any sign that he was going to explain how he already knew her name, or that he knew that none of the others gathered in the room were leaders. "I go by Nervusuel, a member of the elder council of Ka'Valistanak, and the Ambassador sent to meet with both you and that of the Council to decide just where we stand in this war. I assure you that my planned meeting with Lord Raiden is simply the way of my people, we hear both sides out before we make a choice. We have no intention of taking a side because of trivial matters of who is winning, but to find out just what both sides goals and ambitions can lead to." He glanced away from her to those of the patrol. "I would speak of more of Ka'Valistanak to you right now, but I am afraid it would have to be hush hush. Only for the ears, and eyes, of your leaders, not for these... Soldiers, no matter how high esteem they are above the others following you. Some things on this world can be quite disturbing, unsettling, horrifying, or whatever word of your language you choose to use."
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Post by Fury on Mar 20, 2009 18:35:49 GMT -5
Indignity of the highest! Sephis had to do his best to resist a snarl. Soldier! A simple word but oh now much of a difference it meant to him. He was normally not so arrogant as to point things out but soldiers were indeed a much lower status than himself as a member of the Black Patrol. He kept his mouth shut however for want of not looking bad in front of Jun.
Meanwhile, in came a small bird who landed on Sephis' shoulder. It was his friend... or so he thought. While it gave off no magical energy, the black feathered creature was really his brother's shape-shifting friend.
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Post by Venus on Mar 21, 2009 5:21:47 GMT -5
Jun listened, fingers steepled, through Nervusuel's introduction. She digested the information for a beat before speaking. "I am the current Voice of the council, and in that office, I welcome you on the behalf of the Rebellion leaders. Each are away from our base on missions against Raiden, or in ambassadorial functions such as yours. Otherwise, they would be here to greet you alongside me. Their collective return is scheduled for later in today, from what the seers and messenger birds have relayed to us. Would you prefer to speak with me immediately, knowing that I am only the Voice of the council and not its full strength, or wait until the other council members return and view our entire number? I mean no impudence or insult to your envoy by asking this, but I've known ambassadors in the past who refuse to speak to a lone council member, not to mention a female council member." The last was spoken with a wry grin, and Jun stood, awaiting his response. &&& Chiyo approached the doors in full view of Andreas, who shifted his axespear automatically into defensive. "Ah, looks like I'm early ta meet. Step aside, please. I'm here for the Patrol." The guard didn't move, but she saw his sceptical look as his gaze flitted over her short stature. Chiyo could almost hear his scoff. Her eyes narrowed and she allowed the magic to shift them as it would in a fight. "Would you like a demonstration?" The soft hiss was eons away from her jovial tone. He moved. Chiyo walked into the council chamber. A quick nod to Jun and a momentary assessment of their visitor - ambassador, was it? She wasn't sure what she had heard - and she padded quietly over to the wall, halting by Sephis.
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Post by Fury on Mar 21, 2009 8:16:31 GMT -5
Sephis, still stroking the bird, smiled warmly at Chiyo. Of all of the Patrol there were few he actually admired. While they all worked together as a team most were less skilled in specific areas than he would prefer them to be. However Chiyo's wasn't all she appeared to be. While the rest of them wore armor and dark clothing she and her cheerful voice made it hard to believe she was so deadly...but with the flip of a switch came drastic change. She could beat anyone who stood in her way and Sephis knew it so he didn't dare make a challenge against her.
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Post by ryuu on Mar 21, 2009 15:00:32 GMT -5
Riali made it there in time to see Chiyo disapear into the metting room. So the rumurs had been true, she just hoped she wasnt really late or something like that. She stepped into the room and was surprised to see somone there she dident recognise. The stranger deffinatly did not look like a newly recruited member of the Patrol, who was he then? And what was he doing at their meeting?
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