Shy

[size=1][indent] “[b]It was very kind of you, to bring me something to eat,[/b]” Dr. Phantaxian said as he reached into his desk, secretly withdrawing a small syringe, “[b]Would you like to share it with me? Are you hungry?[/b]” The doctor extended his hand towards the child, and Bright Eyes began to growl. “[b]Bright Eyes, what’s wrong?[/b]” Colin asked. The dog continued to growl, focused on Mikhail. “[b]I didn’t mean to startle your… [I]animal[/I]. Perhaps you should have it play with the other children while we eat.[/b]” “[b]Bright Eyes would never leave me. I’m sorry that she‘s being mean.[/b]” Mikhail smiled, “[b]Don’t be, Colin. [I]Anger[/I] is a powerful emotion. It is said that it comes from fear, but it is also a sign of strength. After all, a man can be driven to do certain things in a fit of passion that they might not otherwise, wouldn‘t you agree?[/b]” The boy shook his head, “[b]I… I don’t know…[/b]” “[b]Consider yourself lucky that you don’t have any parents, Colin. They can be cruel at times, wicked at others. All adults can… perhaps that‘s why I have found myself so fond of you.[/b]” There was a knock at the door, and Nurse Sola began to speak from the other side. “[b]It’s time, doctor.[/b]” Dr. Phantaxian nodded, “[b]Very well. I apologize Colin for not telling you sooner, but we have a very important meeting that we simply cannot afford to miss.[/b]” The Nurse opened the door a crack, just enough to reveal large stains of blood across her white uniform, “[b]I’ve put the other children to bed.[/b]” “[b]Thank you. Was there much struggle?[/b]” “[b]Not at all, doctor,[/b]” she replied emotionless as she entered, “[b]I tucked each of them in, as you requested. Should I dispose of the research as well before we leave?[/b]” “[b]Of course not, Sola. My work is my art. Perhaps someday they will be able to appreciate it.[/b]” “[b]We can escape through the corridors whenever you‘re ready.[/b]” Mikhail ran his fingers alongside the nurse‘s face. She stared into his eyes longingly as he spoke, “[b]You’ve been so invaluable, Sola. Prepare the boy’s things and let’s go.[/b]” “[b]You’re bringing the child?[/b]” Colin‘s eyes widened, “[b]Are we going somewhere?[/b]” “[b]We’re going to be traveling very soon, to meet with some of my associates. They have tools that we do not, and can better help to locate your family.[/b]” “[b]This is foolish![/b]” Nurse Sola snapped, “[b]Our contact only guaranteed us passage for two. He’ll raise suspicion![/b]” “[b]Wait for me in the hallway, Colin. The nurse and I need to speak privately.[/b]” There was an awkward pause as the doctor narrowed his eyes. He grabbed Colin’s shoulder, and forcefully pushed him and Bright Eyes through the doorway, closing it behind him. “[b]Doctor, please. I apologize, I didn’t mean to question--[/b]” Suddenly Colin heard a loud crash from the other side of the door, and some kind of a struggle. Bright Eyes began to bark wildly, and ran towards the building’s entrance through a poorly lit hallway. “[b]Bright Eyes![/b]” Colin shouted as he ran behind her, trying to keep up. The two ran past the rows of beds, each filled with what appeared to be a sleeping child. Colin tried to call for help, but none of them were waking up. It was then that he heard a terrible scream echo from the hallway. The boy desperately attempted to open the door, but it was locked. He struggled with it for a moment, hoping to somehow break free until he felt a familiar grip on his shoulder, and a pin prink along his neck. “[b]Ouch! What are you doing?[/b]” “[b]It’s just some medicine, Colin. We won’t be using that door,[/b]” Dr. Phantaxian said, “[b]Come with me. We’ll exit through the back.[/b]” “[b]What about Nurse Sola? Why isn‘t anyone waking up?[/b]” “[b]I’ve decided that I’m going to leave her to care for the other children. They were having trouble sleeping….[/b]” It was at that moment that Colin felt the room spin around him. He turned towards Bright Eyes, and suddenly collapsed onto the ground. Mikhail wiped a bead of sweat from his brow, and picked the child up from the floor, “[b]Come with me.[/b]” The trio had spent little over an hour traveling through the streets of Gallana when they finally reached their destination. It was a dank, dark bar, filled with Versillans and Humans alike. Everyone turned their attention to the door as Mihkail, carrying Colin in his arms as Bright Eyes reluctantly followed behind. “[b]No children allowed,[/b]” one of the patrons said in between gulps of his enormous drink. “[b]It will only be brief,[/b]” Dr. Phantaxian replied with a nod, staring out at the crowd, “[b]I’m looking for a woman…[/b]” It was at that moment a slender Versilan woman approach the group. She held a sly grin on her face as she eyed the trio. “[b]My name is Valencia. Are you here for business or pleasure?[/b]” “[b]Transport.[/b]” “[b]Even better,[/b]” she replied as she led them towards the corner of the bar. “[b]My name is Mik--[/b]” “[b]I don't need your name, I only need to know if you can pay.[/b]” “[b]I assure you that won’t be a problem.[/b]” The doctor set the boy down and reached into his medical bag to withdraw a small sack containing precious stones and jewels. The small grin on Valencia’s face grew into a full smile as she stared at them. “[b]I will pay you half now,[/b]” he said, “[b]And half when we leave the sector. Twice that if we can leave tonight.[/b]” “[b]And what of the child?[/b]” “[b]He and the dog stay with me. I have taken up a… personal interest in them both. They won't be leaving my side for quite a while.[/b]”[/size][/indent]

[quote name='Sandy']*removes the strikethroughs* That's really unfair to say, since when I posted, I actually thought it [I]was[/I] the morning of the 7th day - I even said so in this thread. Then James pointed out that it was the next night, and that's when I got confused. But as I already said, the timeline I posted should clear everything up, and I hope everyone agrees with it to save us from further unnecessary complications. Do you guys honestly think I'm sorting out the days just for fun? XP Although they are a minor issue, it's still important that all the characters are on the same day, or we'll have some [I]serious[/I] issues in the future. But we should really wrap up this conversation and move onto the chimaera races. Maybe we can move on with the story eventually, as well. ;D PS. Doesn't anyone really want to try to solve the riddle on the landmark?[/QUOTE][size=1]Well then I take issue with James' post, because it creates a phantom '7th Day' where none of the characters seemed to do anything but Gadget, Vincent and Gustave. Everyone seems to be on the same timeline but Vincent and Gadget. so I'd simply reword the Gustave posts so that you pick him up from the Aerodome in the morning of Day 7. As for the Landmark, I know a couple of players are working on it. But it's going to be very difficult to solve without the next piece of the puzzle. Expect that up in a future post. But if anyone can solve it now, that's very impressive. I'm sure at least one of you has an idea of what the poem might be referring to. -Shy[/size]

[quote name='Gavin'][size=1]Just for clarities sake Josh, how well known is it that Daedalus is ill ? I know from your post at the party he had a coughing fit, which would probably trigger rumours, but nobody outside of those closest to him know the extent of it correct ?[/size][/QUOTE][size=1]I don't think his condition is widely known, even within the family. Nobody really knows what is wrong with Daedalus (save for Harriet, Macey, and possibly Alecia) but everyone knows that it's much more serious than he's letting on. If you've ever had a sick relative try to hide their condition from you then you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. Unfortunately it took the failed bombing in Rosengard for everyone to realize that something was up. [strike]As for the timeline. The post with Gustave is what threw off the timeline. If you merely reword the post so that it takes place in the morning then everything would be much more clear. We are on late morning/early afternoon Day 7 from what I understand. James' and Sandy's posts are the only ones who contradict this. Really he should be nitpicking himself.[/strike] Actually, I don't care about the timeline at this point. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Fonty is trying very hard to escape the hospital, and now he has a partner-in-crime in Charles. Darren or Sunfall can follow this up however they'd like, although I would like him to leave the hospital eventually; he has to meet up with Artemis Air Transports at some point and discuss the future of Magitech. I imagine that Daedalus would strongly oppose any attempt to sell the company, but given his health I don't know how he would be able to fight it. Perhaps this could create a rift between the Almagests? Given the recent troubles in New Czenoble and Rosengard there are probably more than a few Almagests who are ready to sell. The controlling interest in Magitech is probably split between Leonhart's legitimate heirs, Bavaria, Daedalus and Catherine. Each and every one of them are going to have to voice their opinions about the offer if and when it comes to pass. -Shy[/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/charlesavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/beatrist-chronicle.jpg[/img][/center] [indent][size=1]Charles was directed up several flights of stairs towards Fauntleroy’s hospital room, directly across the hall from that of his uncle’s. In the hallway he exchanged brief glances with family members whose names he couldn’t quite recall, and quietly entered as Fauntleroy conversed with Beatriste. She sat by his bedside, enjoying a cup of coffee as she read through the morning’s Chronicle. Fauntleroy's arm was in a sling and his hair a terrible mess. “[b]Artemis Air Transports submitted an offer this morning,[/b]” he said, “[b]And according to the Justice at Magitech it’s a very significant one. They‘d like you to meet with them once you‘re able, and discuss the fine print.[/b]” “[b]I don’t understand how that’s any of my business, Bea. I hadn’t even accepted Uncle Daedalus’ offer yet.[/b]” Beatriste set aside her drink and pointed at the front page of The Chronicle. “INJURED ALMAGEST HEIR ACCEPTS NEW ROLE AT MAGITECH,” the headline read. Fauntleroy nearly choked upon seeing it. “[b]However did I miss that?! It would seem The Chronicle knows the entire story, even before I do.[/b]” “[b]Someone must have overheard Daedalus at the party,[/b]” Beatriste said, “[b]Corporate spies are everywhere these days...[/b]” “[b]It’s not the spying I worry about. It’s the bullets.[/b]” Fauntleroy turned towards the doorway, noticing Charles, “[b]Oh Charles, I’ve been expecting you![/b]” “[b]Oh. Yes. So I’ve heard. Are you doing alright?[/b]” “[b]All things considered I’m doing very well. I’m even ready to leave the hospital, assuming they ever let me out of here.[/b]” Beatriste smiled at Charles, “[b]Hello Charles. I gave the kids to the nanny so that I could visit my brother. I hope that’s alright.[/b]” “[b]Please, Beatriste, I’ve always trusted your judgment with Bertram and Pearl. You seem to know them even better than I do.[/b]” “[b]Hush now. I’ll give you two some time to discuss things in private,[/b]” Beatriste said with a sly grin as she rose to her feet, “[b]But for the record, Charles, I think you should accept Fonty’s proposal. It would be wonderful to have you around High Czenoble and the children again.[/b]” “[b]What are you talking about?[/b]” The woman merely smiled as she exited the room, the trail of her modest green dress following closely behind her. Charles sat down by Fauntleroy’s side, noticeably confused. “[b]Have you read the paper today yet Charles?[/b]” Fauntleroy asked, “[b]It would seem that I’ve been promoted to a leadership position within my father’s company.[/b]” “[b]I had no idea! Congratulations, Faunt--[/b]” “[b]No congratulations, please. I’m terrified,[/b]” he replied dryly, “[b]I know absolutely nothing about business, or alchemy, or any of this nonsense. But Daedalus is not well, and there’s no telling how much time he might have left.[/b]” “[b]I see.[/b]” “[b]Worse yet, it would seem Magitech is under attack from other companies. It may ultimately be up to me to decide the future of the family business, and I need someone I can trust by my side. This is why I‘d like to ask you to work with me in Magitech, Charles. You have always been a good friend; I couldn‘t think of anyone else more capable.[/b]” Charles slowly nodded, thinking about the offer carefully. He had always loved his job as a conductor, but it was obvious that he might not be able to do that for some time. [I]At the very least[/I], he thought, [I]It would give me a chance to spend more time with the children.[/I] “[b]Very well, Fauntleroy,[/b]” Charles said as he extended his hand, “[b]I accept your offer. I can only hope you’ll be fair and professional towards me.[/b]” “[b]That's very unlikely,[/b]” he replied with a laugh, “[b]But I’ll try to be just the same.[/b]” “[b]So when do I start?[/b]” “[b]Right now![/b]” "[b]What?[/b]" "[b]Stop asking questions and find me a pair of crutches before Alecia returns. You need to help me plan my escape.[/b]" It was at that moment Charles realized that this would not be a normal job.[/size][/indent]

[quote name='Lunox'][font="trebuchet ms"]Yes! Victory...for Giuliani. XD Now for multiplayer...[/font][/QUOTE][size=1]If anyone ever wants to play a round of Campaign just let me know over AIM or PM. I'm completely addicted to this thing. -Shy[/size]

[quote name='Neuvoxraiha'][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]Coulda sworn me and James had this little talk the other night but no matter. I shall charge along bravely in the name of sheer mindless bloody bravado![/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE][size=1]I assumed it was today, and have said as much in my recent posts. But maybe they are a multi-day affair, and Gustave is arriving in time for a race on a later day. Perhaps we all need to be more clear on these things. There's no way Sakura can know about conversations you're having with James over AIM. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]I apololgize that I misread your post. It didn't seem like you had any intent of creating an RPG. I thought you were merely being faceitous to point out your dislike of them. Anyway... I've always wanted to do an "RPG cliche" RPG, where each character was a different stereotype. Vampires, Elemental Mages, Tokyo Assassins, etc. The real problem with doing something like that is that comedy RPGs have never done very well on the site. There have been a few exceptions, mind you, but the greatest RPG success stories have always been projects that take themselves way too seriously. So as Mom said, I'd like to hear more about your idea. Perhaps if the story was right something like this could turn out to be pretty popular. -Shy[/size]

[quote name='Neuvoxraiha'][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]Crystia and I were under the impression that the cup wasn't for another couple of days Sakura dear. I mean Gustave hasn't even landed in Czenoble yet. How can he observe the racing of his Chimaeras without being present?[/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE][size=1]No, the Cup is today. I figure it's an all-day affair, with several different races throughout the day and night. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]If you don't like the RPGs being written on OB [i]make your own[/i]. Duh. This site is part of a larger anime fan community, so inevitably you are going to see a lot of anime/video game-based RPGs here. Some are done better than others, and generally the better ones achieve a greater level of success. Being established within the community helps to draw extra attention to your project, but it's not totally neccessary. Goodness knows I've created dozens of RPGs, and the majority of them have been tremendous failures. Just post something up and see if it sticks. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]New day, new Landmark. Have some fun with it! -Shy[/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/ladybavariaavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/morphiaavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/helen-chronicle.jpg[/img][/center] [size=1]Morphia Markham sat anxiously in the waiting room of Eshe Rehema, The Royal Czenovian Hospital of High Czenoble. It had been a long, tiring day for everyone, yet none moreso than her own sister. Bavaria had wrapped herself in her shawl and fallen asleep in sitting up, leaning gently on Morphia’s shoulder. Many of the Almagests had long since left for the night, hoping to catch some rest, yet it was the Deacons who remained. Still, her thoughts continued to drift as she sat there, thinking of Henry’s betrayal and her own strange encounter with the Prince Augustus. For a young many rumored to be ‘disabled’ he certainly seemed quite normal to her. Suddenly Nellie burst into the hospital, still wearing her officer’s uniform. Several young guards immediately saluted the woman as she passed by, rushing to the front desk. “[b]My name is Helen Almagest![/b]” she shouted as she slammed her fist on the counter, “[b]Do you have any word of my father’s condition?[/b]” “[b]Almagest, Almagest…[/b]“ The elderly nurse slowly shook her head as she thumbed through a stack of folders, “[b]Who did you say you were here for, miss? We seem to have several tonight.[/b]“ Morphia rose to her feet, “[b]Nellie. Daedalus is still unconscious from the blast. There hasn’t been any change in his condition for hours.[/b]” “[b]That can’t be true! My father was an expert in demolitions, there is no way he would have injured himself so much…[/b]” Helen turned towards Morphia, clearly enraged, “[b]And on the day of his brother’s funeral, no less! Has all of Czenovia gone mad?[/b]” “[b]It’s much worse than that, Helen…[/b]” Morphia replied, “[b]It would seem that all of Czenovia has finally come to their senses.[/b]”[/size] [center][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/charlesavatar.jpg[/IMG][/center] [right][font=Garamond][size=4][b]The Underground[/b][/size][/font][/right] [size=1]It was the next morning when Charles entered the High Czenoble train station with a look of concern across his face. Only a few days earlier New Czenoble was in flames, and after that one of the train stations had come under attack. Now with the latest word coming out of Rosengard it seemed as if nowhere was safe for him and his children. As he stared at the large assortment of armed officers inspecting every passenger, train and package it seemed as if the Dynast government felt the same way too. “[b]Papers, sir![/b]” A heavyset guard said, brandishing a rifle in his arms, “[b]We cannot allow anyone to move any further without proof of identification.[/b]” Charles reached into his coat and withdrew a small paper carrying the seal of the Royal Transport Authority. The guard stared at it for a moment before responding. “[b]It says here that you’re an Almagest...[/b]” Charles raised an eyebrow in suspicion, “[b]That‘s right. My wife was an Almagest…[/b]” “[b]Then I’m afraid I can’t allow you to operate your train today,[/b]” the man said, “[b]Given your lineage you may be considered a high priority target. Your presence would endanger the lives of everyone on board.[/b]” “[b]You can’t be serious. I‘ve been operating this train for--![/b]” “[b]I’m going to have to ask you to leave, sir! You’ll be contacted by your supervisor when and [I]if[/I] you are able to work again. Given the crowds we're expecting for the races today, it‘s much too risky to have you out while Donner and Blair Stark are on the loose.[/b]” “[b][i]Donner and who?[/i][/b]” The guard pointed Charles towards one of the support columns, virtually wallpapered with various posters and writings. [center][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/posterchronicle3.jpg[/IMG] [font=garamond][size=4][b]Landmark 07[/b][/size][/font][/center] “[b]I thought you were an Almagest![/b]” The guard laughed, “[b]Donner and Blair are the most wanted criminals in Czenovia, and it looks like they’re after you![/b]”[/size]

[size=1]In order to keep things confusing I've updated the Cast of Characters for The Almagest Legacy. There was one removal, and six additions, which puts us at a very light [strike]26[/strike] 28 main characters. Ugh! Jacob Mason (Daedalus' eldest son) still exists, so we don't need to edit any of the Landmarks or the family tree. Let us just say that he's out of town for work, with no intention of coming back. The 'new' characters who now have avatars are: [b]Gustave[/b], [b]Lector Moebius[/b], [b]Meredyne Artemis[/b], [b]Princess Augustine[/b] and [b]Donner and Blair Stark[/b]. Feel free to use them as much (or as little) as you'd like. Don't bother editing your old posts to include the new avatars unless you really want to. Gaul Rosier, Agron Deacon, and other members of the Dynast clan will probably receive avatars as the story continues, but I honestly just didn't feel like making them. If anyone has any characters they would like to give an avatar, just let me know and I'd be more than willing to include them. My next post will put us into the next day and give us another Landmark. So expect that up shortly! -Shy[/size]

[quote name='Malkav']I Saw that Shy was updating portraits and wanted to see if we could get Meredyne in one. I have two pictures, and both have an early 20th century feel to them. I wanted to go slightly anachronistic with the look (like I did with Jack) because I would assume pilots, being one of the few things really anachronistic in this game, would look avante garde when it came to fashion. I have two choices, both attached. The one with the three women, I was looking at the girl in the middle. On a side note, these were drawn by the same artist who drew Jack and Fauntleroy...I like her work. Both faces would make for beautiful portraits.[/QUOTE][size=1]The second is my favorite, although both of them are beautiful. We'll definitely give Meredyne a portrait, since I know Darren had wanted to use her as well. -Shy[/size]

[quote name='James'][font=franklin gothic medium]Oops, just posted at the same time as Rach. Hopefully nothing conflicts (with an early glance it all looks okay).[/font][/QUOTE][size=1]Isn't Catherine at the hospital watching over Fonty? -Shy[/size]

[quote name='Darren']It's not that I don't want to post, Shy. It's that I can't really think of anything to post about. And now that I've gone so long without it, and my character hasn't even been mentioned, I've got a lot of catching up to do. I still need to catch up on all the posts, plus come up with something that Charles was doing during all this time... Fortunately, I do have maybe 1 idea that I hope to follow up on, but I don't know how proceed without making it confusing. Just bear with me, and I promise I'll try to post it within the next day or so.[/QUOTE][size=1]I apologize, I may have sounded rude when I asked that. I only asked because you guys seem to post less often than the other players, and knowing your status makes it easier to know what role your characters should play in the larger story. I understand that people are busy, but if there is a specific direction you would like to send your character in let me know and I'll do my best to help. Does Charles want a job? Fauntleroy is getting a new position at Magitech and could use an assistant. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Given that the bomb is diffused I think it might be in our best interest to formally move onto the 'next day.' Sandy and I need to discuss a few things first, though, so if anyone has anything they would like to do before the story moves forward you have a day or so (real time) to do that in. Once again, good posts everyone! -Shy[/size]

[size=1]I don't think of Lector Moebius as being that old or distinguished. Ultimately it's up to Mom, Aaryanna and indifference, though. After all, they have to deal with him every day in CHAOS. [b]Muse? Sakura? Darren?[/b]: Any chance we'll be hearing from you guys again anytime soon? BTW: I started a Lady Bavaria Fan Club in my signature. Aaryanna's post was absolutely devastating for the poor Deacon woman, and I felt like she needed some sympathy. PM to join! -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Since Jacob hasn't been mentioned in the RPG so far, I'm seriously considering just removing him from the character listing and family tree altogether. Nellie is busy with her work as a bodyguard for the Dynast Princess, but as for Dawlish... I dunno, I'll find a way to include him in Fauntleroy's Magitech stuff. It's a shame that all of Daedalus' children don't post very often. I'd like to revamp the Cast of Characters for the coming day. This will mean removing several characters from the story (such as Jacob,) and replacing them with newer ones (such as Gustave.) I also want to give certain important NPCs their own posting avatars, like the Dynast Princess or Lector Moebius. If anyone has any new characters they would like to introduce to the story, or maybe change their own posting avatar, please let us know in this thread. -Shy[/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/ladybavariaavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/marieevangeline-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alecialeanna-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/catherinesaraavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/morphiaavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/victoriaann-chronicle.jpg[/img][/center][size=1][indent]Fauntleroy found himself carried by a pair of servants as they, and countless guests fled Rosengard. Aunt Catherine climbed down from her bedroom as soon as she heard the news, and immediately rushed to her nephew’s aid. She held tightly onto the young man’s hand as Alecia, Eva and Victoria Ann followed closely behind, watching him carefully. The trail of Fauntleroy's blood followed the group as they entered the Grand Hall, startling the handful of partygoers who had not yet evacuated. A head servant approached the group, informing them of their family's whereabouts. Cathernie nodded, "[b]Thank you, Stephen. Search every closet and cupboard in Rosengard. If you find anyone insist that they leave immediately![/b]" “[b]Is Uncle Fonty going to be alright?[/b]” Victoria asked timidly. Alecia shook her head, “[b]He’s lost a lot of blood, Victoria. The best thing we can do is get him to the nearest medical center.[/b]” “[b]I’ll be alright Victoria,[/b]” Fonty said between heavy coughs, “[b]Is everyone being evacuated?[/b]” “[b]Don’t worry about that right now, Fauntleroy,[/b]” Aunt Catherine replied, “[b]Daedalus is the only one there. If anyone can take care of that bomb it’s going to be him.[/b]” The group moved down the front steps of Rosengard, and began to board a larger carriage waiting along the road. One by one they entered the vehicle, save for Victoria Ann. Aunt Catherine let go of Fauntleroy’s hand, and turned towards her niece. “[b]Victoria Ann Almagest, get into the car right now![/b]” Defiantly, the young girl remained perfectly still with her arms crossed. “[b]You should go down there, Aunt Catherine![/b]” Victoria Ann commanded, “[b]You know [I]way[/I] more about alchemy than Uncle Daedalus! You can disarm the bomb![/b]” “[b]There’s no time to behave like this, young lady. The most important thing is to get your uncle out of here safely. Your mother has already left with the twins, and I promised her I'd take care of you.[/b]” "[b]I'm old enough to take care of myself![/b]" Fauntleroy raised his head slightly, “[b]Please Victoria? You may be all grown up, but who is going to take care of me when I'm like this?[/b]” “[b][I]Fine…[/I][/b]” As Victoria Ann took a step towards the carriage she found herself crossing paths with Lady Bavaria and Morphia. The two Deacon women stared down at the young girl, both wearing identical looks of disdain across their face. Victoria Ann hopped into the carriage, attempting to slam the door shut behind her until Lady Bavaria poked her head inside. “[b]Catherine, is the boy alright?! Is everyone alright?[/b]” Eva glared, “[b]We’re in a hurry. As you can see this carriage we’re taking my brother to the nearest medical center.[/b]” “[b]And so am I, dear,[/b]” Lady Bavaria replied as she entered, her sister following closely behind, “[b]You children may think a lot of things of me, but I am not without compassion. Despite your cruel assumptions I have a great deal of concern for each and every one of you....[/b] Catherine tapped the glass separating her car from the driver, and in an instant the vehicle was in motion. Morphia cringed at the sight of Fauntleroy's blood, "[b]Who could have done such a thing?[/b]" "[b]It was an accident,[/b]" Fauntleroy said, "[b]I was at the wrong place at the wrong time, and I couldn't stop him...[/b]" Eva kissed her brother tenderly on the forehead, "[b]You were very brave, brother. Now save your strength...[/b]" Alecia Ann pressed her blood-soaked bandages on Fauntleroy’s chest firmly. She let out a heavy sigh as she stared out the window towards Rosengard. The thought of losing her home was almost too terrible to imagine, let alone that of of losing another family member. She found herself lost in thought, only to be pulled away suddenly by Lady Bavaria's touch. “[b]I owe you and your husband an apology. If Alexander hadn‘t gone against my wishes it‘s likely nobody would have known about the boy until it was too late…[/b]” "[b]Now is not the time, Bavaria. We can discuss this later.[/b]" Lady Bavaria nodded in silent agreement as the carriage continued its' journey.[/size][/indent]

[quote name='Sandy']And Malkav, I'd do what she says if I were you; even though D'Ann seems to despise Bavaria, the two of them have a lot in common. XD[/QUOTE][size=1]Oh. My. I think it's perfectly in character for a pirate to sucker punch someone, even ex-military. That's kind of what pirates do, you know? Raiha, you've been especially combative towards Malkav as of late. There's no way he could have known about your plan because you didn't tell him about it. Simply work around his post, and be sure to use this thread to communicate in the future so that everyone can see your plans. Please try to be less... well, [i]angry[/i] with the other players. That goes for everyone. Get along or get booted out. Save it for your posts, people. Great work so far. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Just to let everyone know, there is no [i]set plan[/i] for Fonty/The bomb/The Starks. Anyone and everyone should feel free to step forward and do whatever they want with it. All I ask is that the two criminals manage to evade capture today. After all, the alternative is Rosengard going up in flames, and nobody wants that (save for maybe Lady Bavaria. You know how she is...) -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Poor Fonty. Is there a potionist in the house? Also, if Sandy could just post I'd love to move on to the next day. I have the 'Wanted' poster ready and everything! -Shy[/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/beatrist-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/ladybavariaavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/jackavatar.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/donner-avatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/blair-avatar.jpg[/IMG][/center] [size=1][indent]A few hours had passed and the crowd was slowly fading away. It was a quiet affair, save for the gossip of Lady Bavaria’s outburst earlier in the day. Despite this, she remained as strong, confident and perfect as always. She had Jack at her side, and slowly approached Beatriste and Fauntleroy from across the room. “[b]Oh no,[/b]” Fonty said nervously, “[b]She’s headed this way.[/b]” Beatriste rolled her eyes, “[b]Please don’t turn this into a spectacle. Just say a few kind words and move on.[/b]” Before he had a chance to escape, Lady Bavaria grabbed tightly onto his hand. “[b]Hello Fauntleroy.[/b]” “[b]Oh! Hello. How are you keeping?[/b]” “[b]Fine, thank you,[/b]” she said with a smug grin, “[b]I’ve decided that I’ll be moving into the estate beginning tomorrow. I certainly hope that we can live peacefully alongside one another.[/b]” Beatriste narrowed her eyes, “[b]But what of the Deacon home in Thorinine?[/b]” “[b]There was always one great obstacle keeping me from this estate, but now that she and her child are gone I’d very much like to stay here. I've asked my siblings to join me, of course...[/b]” Jack laughed as he patted Fauntleroy on the back, “[b]Kind of a big surprise, isn’t it Fonty?[/b]” “[b]Quite…[/b]” Fauntleroy stared down at his empty glass, “[b]If you’ll excuse me, I believe my drink needs some freshening up.[/b]” "[b]Sure thing,[/b]" Jack replied, "[b]I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot of one another these days anyway.[/b]" "[b]So it would seem.... hm...[/b]" Each servant was armed with a small bar at their disposal, but the news of Lady Bavaria moving in required something truly special. It was time to head to the cellar and steal some of his father’s private reserve. After all, it wouldn’t be doing him any good from beyond the grave. The prospect of living with Lady Bavaria was horrifying, but even worse was the prospect of abandoning Rosengard. [I]She has no right to throw her weight around,[/I] he thought to himself as he walked down a poorly lit, marble staircase, [I]My father was just buried and the Deacons are already stomping across his grave…[/I] Surprisingly the long, narrow hallway leading was filthy. A trail of gray dust caked the floor, leading into the closed door of the cellar. Fauntleroy wiped a bit of the floor with his gloved finger and inspected the substance: gunpowder? He also found a simple scrap of paper curled up along the floor… [center][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/poemschronicle.png[/IMG] [b][font=garamond][size=4]Landmark 06[/font][/size][/center][/b] “[b]We need to hurry before the guests depart,[/b]” a female voice said from the cellar. Another unfamiliar voice agreed, “[b]There is no rush, my love. The fools upstairs will be drinking for hours.[/b]” "[b]I only wish we didn't have to hurt any innocents, in placing another bomb...[/b]" Fauntleroy opened the door a hair, enough to see a man and a woman preparing a bizarre mix of powder and potions. While he wasn’t certain of the compound, he knew for of its’ alchemical origins. Something strange was going on in Rosengard, and with a few drinks inside of him already Fauntleroy was ready to stop it. He bravely threw open the door, startling the two inside. “[b]Who are you two, and what are you doing in my wine cellar?[/b]” The woman turned to her counterpart nervously, “[b]They’ve found us, Donnor![/b]” “[b]It’s just a boy…[/b]“ the strange man said with a crooked grin, “[b]I can take care of this.[/b]” “[b]Donnor, don’t. Please![/b]” The man withdrew a large pistol from his jacket and aimed it squarely at Fauntleroy’s chest. Before the Almagest could say a word the weapon fired, sending a bullet through his shoulder and knocking him to the ground. Fauntleroy lay helpless in pain as they escaped, desperately calling for help from the partygoers up above.[/size][/indent]

[size=1][indent]Colin and Bright Eyes? time in Dr. Phantaxian?s offices had been some of the best they had seen in ages; every morning they were properly fed, bathed, and still had plenty of time to play. It was everything the young boy had every wanted, save for the ominous presence of Nurse Sola hovering over his every move. He only hoped that his time there would be brief, and that Mikhail would fulfill his promise of finding him and Bright Eyes a new time. Nurse Sola spoke only in whispers, pulling the other children away from their beds in the middle of the night mysteriously. Colin had pretended that he was asleep as she did this, and the others knew well enough to do the same. Hours later they would be returned to their beds unconscious, with no memory of what had happened to them while they were away. However, some were pulled away and never returned. Nobody seemed to know what was going on, and nobody was brave enough to ask. Mikhail also seemed different than when he had first met Colin. The carefree smile across his face had disappeared, instead replaced with a dark, sinister scowl. It was obvious that something was troubling the doctor, but what could it be? He, nor anyone had left the building in days. It almost seemed as if they were hiding from something. Colin, Tandy and Bright Eyes snuck out of the main room to speak with Mikhail themselves. Tandy carried a small plate of food as they entered his office, where the doctor was burying himself in front of a video monitor. ?[b]Have they found what they?re looking for yet?[/b]? Mikhail asked as he stared into the screen, ?[b]I?m getting anxious.[/b]? ?[b]I know you?ve been careful, but these are some of the best security experts in the galaxy. They haven?t left planetside, which means they are still looking for you.[/b]? ?[b]They won?t find me alive, I won?t let them?.[/b]? There was a moment of silence, and Mikhail?s eyes turned toward the children standing in the hallway. ?[b]I-- I need to sign out,[/b]? he said as he entered a few random buttons on his keypad, ?[b]Thank you for your assistance?[/b]? The video screen blacked out, and Dr. Phantaxian stepped out of his seat to approach the children. Tandy took a step back as the man approached, his silver eyes focused intensely on them. ?[b]Well?[/b]? he asked impatiently, ?[b]What is it?[/b]? Colin grabbed the plate of food from Tandy?s unsteady hands and gave it to the doctor, ?[b]We thought you might be hungry?[/b]? ?[b]Oh? thank you.[/b]? Suddenly a smile crept across Dr. Phantaxian?s face, ?[b]Come, boy. Why don?t we eat together?[/b]? He grabbed Colin by the wrist and pulled him towards a nearby chair, Bright Eyes following closely behind. Tandy took another step back into the hallway, and Mikhail turned his attention towards the doorway. He leaned in to the small girl, and whispered as he spoke. ?[b]I don?t know how much you heard, girl, but it?s best you forget it. You don?t want to end up like your brother.[/b]? And with that Dr. Phantaxian closed the door, locking it shut before turning his attention towards the boy.[/size][/indent]