0ber0n the Neko

OOC: Since David seems to have disappeared, we'll just say he came with me? IC: Nathan let out a long breath. The scene before him was brutal, violent, and most of all, bloody. He looked to Detective Briggs. "Any clues?" "No. There was only blood. No knife... No sign of knife entry save for the blood and lacerations. It's almost as if... Our killer was able to cut her without using a knife..." Briggs submitted uneasily. David was taking notes. Nathan saw him underline "No Knife". He bent over the woman's body. She was a strange corpse. It looked almost as if she'd get up and start walking around if it werent for all the blood and stab wounds. The stab wounds looked... strange. There didnt seem to be any sort of infection, nor any signs of decay. He beckoned for David to come closer. "These stab wounds don't look right to you, do they?" he whispered. David shook his head in reply. "They're supposed to decay after awhile, sir. Plus, the boogs ain't actin' right." Nathan paused. "Boogs?" he whispered harshly. "Boogs, sir. Insects," David replied. He pointed to the floor. There was a line of ants that seemed to be avoiding the corpse entirely. "Write that down, David. We need to look into this some more," Nathan said. [i]Why would insects turn down a perfectly good corpse? Why is it still fresh, still bleeding? And... what is that [/i]smell[i]?[/i] He inhaled deeply. [i]It smells like a mauloseum in here... or something close...[/i] He turned towards Detective Briggs. "You didn't embalm her, did you?" "Uh, nosir! Why would we do that? They'll take care of it down at the morgue," he said. "Why do you ask?" He paused, thinking. "No reason. guard the body, and leave it here. We need to investigate this a little more." Briggs saluted as Nathan rose from the floor. "Absolutely, sir! I'll guard it with my life!" Nathan remembered something. "I have to see Miss Eclair." "But sir, she's all the way across town-" he barely finished his sentence before Nathan was swiftly racing down the steps. David delayed for only a moment to take the camera from the photographer. He then followed Nathan down the steps to the surgeon's office. ----- When they arrived, Nathan was forced to search for the surgeon's office. The room was empty save for rufus and the surgeon, who was cleaning his tools. "Where are the rest of them?" Nathan asked hastily. The surgeon eyed him warily. "Ah, you're Commander Nathan?" he asked. "They all left me so I could get started. I think they're going to retire for the evening." Nathan felt a tinge of worry, but let it pass. "How is... Rufus?" "Oh. He'll be fine. You're lucky Lord Dante came on time. Our friend here might have gotten infected had he not been so quick. There's something odd, though." The surgeon finished washing his scalpel, and the opened a jar half filled with antiseptic. "The wounds seemed to have been completely absent of decay. It's as if they had just been made..." Nathan froze. "They didn't coagulate, did they?" The surgeon smiled and turned. "Basically, yes. Although, if I was being perfectly honest... They wouldn't have been infected, either. There's something strange about the wound..." The scent hit Nathan like a brick. "Antiseptic," he whispered. "Our attacker is using some sort of anti-coagulant fluid... so that the blood flows freely, dispelling all poison from the body. The bacteria can't come in because the wound is still bleeding!" He paused. The surgeon nodded thoughtfully. "And if it was still bleeding, it couldn't decay. This is all starting to make sense. But, wait. The only anti-coagulant fluid is found in leech saliva... There aren't any leeches around here..." The scent. "Maybe... but our killer might not be from around here." David stiffened. "Wait. In the river Dubh... there were many leeches. Me mum used antiseptic to get rid of the bruises that came from the poison..." Nathan paused. "One thing is clear. Our killer is smart... he knows how to isolate the poison from the saliva... and most wounds he will make can kill..." Nathan's face froze. "The reason he can get away... is because he only needs to stab them a few times to make sure they'll die. Then, the wounds look fresh when he's long gone..." Nathan gasped. "That's how he's getting away!" OOC: I guess i like mystery. In any case, i owe you a long one. ^.^

OOC: I am writing on the assumption that I'm taking Dante as well... IC: David hoisted Rufus onto his back with a resolute grunt. "Let's get goin' commander!" The three men dashed to the forum, which was still crowded with people frantically running to their carriages. The chauffers couldn't keep up with the demand for carriages, and a few minor scuffles had erupted at the front of the people amoeba. "Let us through! Please sir! Move, please!" Nathan cried, pushing noble by noble aside. His progress was nearly in vain. He heard a vague rumbling, and saw Dante standing stiffly behind him. He stepped forward, about to collide with an agitated Lord. The Lord turned around and scoffed. "What's the hurry? We're all waiting, why can't-" And he was instantly thrust aside by an invisible force. "I never was very good at waiting, scum! Anyone else want a piece!?" His voice shot through the silent hall. Almost instantly, people moved deliberately aside to accomadate the men. A few whispers were the only audible sound. Nathan, David, and Dante ran quickly through the crowd and towards a similarly stunned officer, who pointed them in the direction of a cloaked figure, who was running quickly away. Nathan felt himself gathering speed. He thrust more power into each stride, hoping his legs wouldn't give from all the stress. The cloaked man became closer and closer until... *Smack* The cloaked man was flattened against the ground. Nathan nearly ran past him, but was able to stop in time. He looked toward Dante, whose look of grim exasperation spoke volumes. Nathan could barely control the overflow of hate that emenated from Dante's rigid, erect poise. A thought continued to flow into Nathan's head... [i]KILL HIM...[/i] The cloaked man stood, despite the effort, and looked Nathan in the face. "Persistent buggers, aincha?" came his exasperated groan. He lifted the dagger towards Nathan, but didn't get close enough to cause harm before Nathan's sword was drawn, holding the man's dagger down. "Ah, I see we've stopped playing with silly toys. My gratitude," the man shrieked with glee. [i]Hospital. Now. I can take him. Run Rufus to the hospital, and hurry.[/i], came Nathan's thoughts into Dante's head. The rigid figure seemed to remember itself, and ran in the direction of the hospital, helping David manage the heavy load. Nathan turned to his assailant. "It will be a pleasure to dash you apart, miscreant." "But it is I who will be doing the dashing, Commander Nathan!" The cloaked man was on the attack. He stabbed wildly at Nathan, who easily deflected the blade. Nathan took a swing at the man, cutting through his cheek. "En garde." Nathan muttered. The cloaked man looked hesitant. He stepped back slightly, eyeing the hand that had brushed his cheek. "Blood. You... You drew blood... No! Not blood! BLOOD!" The man yelled hysterically. The dagger he held wavered erratically, as if it had no definite shape at all. The man followed suit, laughing loudly, and then seeming to disappear into some sort of void. Nathan stood alone in the courtyard. "I must protect Eclair... No doubt that madman will strike again... and she may be next!" Nathan dashed to the building, which had, by then, been cleared of most of its occupants. He ran to Eclair, who was holding a sobbing Arianna. The youth's body trembled violently, shuddering. "Commander!" A voice yelled. It was detective Antony Briggs. "I'm busy right now. What is it?" "You need to come with us to Whitechapel. Something... strange just went down. We can have the women safeguarded at the station while we investigate... we just..." Briggs' voice failed him. "We need you. Now." Nathan looked helplessly at the girls. "I've made my decision. I-" OOC: Someone else take it away. Pointy Dagger Guy is still alive, by the way.

OOC: Sorry. I was... out. IC: Nathan still suspected the Ballet. It seemed a likely place for pickpockets, thieves, and worst of all, assassins. But, Eclair wanted to go... [i]She wants to see the others. A dangerous place to put oneself in, especially if only for the sake of seeing a few comrades...[i] He felt himself tensen. [i]You're getting obsessed, Hobbs. She'll be fine. A Ballet couldn't hurt...[/i] He smiled nervously. [i]I just don't want to lose her... not now.[/i] "Something on your mind, Nathan?" Eclair asked innocently. "Nothing, miss. Nothing at all," he said, his voice hollow. "You think too much, Nathan! Maybe you should lighten up a little!" Eclair laughed quietly. "You should enjoy the ballet. It's such a high honor..." "I would, milady... but you're not [i]really[/i] safe while you're here..." Nathan muttered. "What was that?" Eclair asked absently. "Nothing. Nothing at all." The Usher pointed them to their door. "This way to your party, milady... and Commander." The man's bow seemed furtively comforting. "I trust you'll make sure we are not... disturbed?" Nathan said. It held the slight air of a command. "Of course, Commander. Your party is waiting." The Usher tipped is hat, and stood guard at the door. Once inside, Eclair looked at Nathan. "Who was that?" Nathan smiled easily. "David O'Shaughnessy. Best Irishman in the watch. Damn good shot, and a damn good copper." [i]Ah... This makes things much easier.[/i] Nathan thought. OOC: Can't think of a good ending..... so TRA-LA!

Hey, team! Let's get this show on the road! It's already on the Adventure Square!

OOC: I'm going to do something a bit strange here, so bear with me. I'm not adding anything to the original plot, because all of this is introspection. I'm just de-stuffying my character for a bit. IC: Nathan cautiously stepped down the marble steps of Eclair's residence. "That... I wonder... Did she see that too?" he said quietly. [i]If she did... God only knows what she'll think...[/i] He felt himself think. [i]I don't even know if or when she's reading my mind... maybe she's a telepath, and isn't telling me...[/i] He felt a chill. "I hope not..." The thoughts seemed to invade his mind, like Dante's suggestions they carried an almost forced urgency, but he knew the thoughts were his own. He didn't like how they made him feel. Eclair had seemed so clear before, but now she seemed more complicated than ever. "Women, heh..." he tried to reassure himself. He felt stupid. He needed a drink. He let his feet guide him to his flat, which was a relief. He hated large houses, and the ornate and pointless decorations that riddled them. He preferred his flat, which was a slightly remodeled armory. He liked being surrounded by power, not just the superficial aristocratic nonsense. That's why all the weapons were still on the walls. He stepped inside, and sat down on a cushioned chair. And then the communication came through his head. It said- OOC: What DID it say? I'm leaving this up to anyone who wants to go for it.

"Ugh..." Karith sighed. "You can say that again," said Jeff. "Damn those Lizards! My Leviathan is wrecked! Now what?" he muttered to himself. "There's always Jive, K." Jeff said, thoughtfully. Karith thought for a moment. "You're right. We should go see Bargle and get some repairs." [i]Damned lizards. I'll bet they're right there waiting for me.[/i] Karith thought. [i]But we can't go anywhere else, not with our ship in this condition...[/i] Jeff stood defiantly. "I still say we should have used IT." The room went silent. The lights seemed to dim, and all eyes were on Jeff. He looked around nervously. "I was... just joking, eh?" The crew nervously returned to their tasks, fearing what ring of Hell they would be sent to if Jeff got his hands on something like that. They weren't even sure what it did, but the Mechanic had made it, and Gods be damned if it wasn't going to be powerful. "ENTERING: ASTEROID JHV 1098" "Alright, brace for impact, everyone!" Karith yelled. OOC: Sorry it's so short... I'm in Business Law right now. AND taking a quiz at the same time.

OOC: I think I'll try to get this started! (It seems like something Eclair should have done, but I'll try to buy her some time, eh?) IC: Nathan held the frail body in his arms as gently as he could. Then he felt a sharp pain in his forehead. [i]I must... protect her...[/i] He felt his head become heavy, and he slumped over. ----- "Ugh..." Nathan breathed. He felt unusual. He was lighter than before, not wearing his armor, but something much tighter. He felt his chest, and the name came to him. [i]Ironguard Armor Model HMKVII. Impervious to bullets, and highly resistant to most weaponry.[/i] The blade at his hip was different, as well. It seemed like a rapier, but different. He drew it, feeling the blade's weight. It was nearly weightless, but was strangely balanced to Nathan's liking. [i]Firebird APW. A sword that heats up to cut through almost any solid object.[/i] "I like this..." he grinned. Then he remembered. "Right! Eclair! Where are you!?" OOC: Not God-Modding or nothin', just setting up my equipment. I'll try not to pull anything out of nowhere... Your turn, Eclair.

OOC: Oooop.... Haven't posted in awhile... I'm at work so this is gonna be VERY SHORT... Sorry. IC: Nathan instantly regretted it as he said it. This was another reason he avoided confessing to Eclair. She could get somewhat touchy about the subject of Vincent. If only he could tell her that... He hadn't really died... But no, not now. Even he couldn't know if it were true or not. But still... "What's wrong, Nathan?" Eclair asked sweetly. "Oh- Nothing, milady. Just... Something on my mind." OOC: Alrighty. I told you it was gonna be short.

OOC: Oop! Natchan posted a short one before i could finish! ^_^ Sorry to ruin anyone's plans, but... IC: Nathan reluctantly stood forward. "Lord Dante!" he said, "We should try not to aggravate Miss Geni any more than we already have. She appears to need rest. Since you two are partners, you should take her home. Make sure she makes it safely. Dante appeared ready to retort, resentful of the watchman who was now giving him orders, but he nodded instead, helping Geni up, and walking her off in the direction of a carriage. "He's a good man, really," said Nathan. "Good heart, and noble mind." The statement caught the others off guard. "Who?" asked Ariana. "Do you mean Dante?" Nathan nodded, smiling. "He's powerful, but so conservative with his power... He is a very useful ally." The three nobles exchanged looks. The look was the same. "You mean... [i]our[/i] Dante? The lord? About this tall?" "How many times must I say it?" Nathan said, chuckling. "Good man, there." There was a long silence. "Well, I'm getting a bit of a chill..." Ariana said. "Take me home, Rufus." "But Ariana-OOF!" Rufus' ribs took another blow, "Why didn't we think of it sooner?" he said, trying to sound cheerful. He was dragged away almost bodily by Ariana. Nathan and Eclair were alone. Nathan paused in embarassment. "We shall away to my flat?" "Sounds lovely," said Eclair. OOC: Disregard this post if you want to stay and garden some more...

[b]Name:[/b] Karith "The Gorgon" Meekes [b]Race:[/b] Half Human, and Half Kuros. Hence his nickname, "The Gorgon", a name that refers to his eyes, which are capable of Kuros and Human sight. [b]Gender:[/b] Male [b]Age:[/b] His life cycle, being human, is a little longer than that of a Kuros. He is 26. [b]Position:[/b] Captain of the starship "Leviathan". He is a master of all trades, shifting from piracy to bounty hunting to general rapscallionism as it suits his fancy. [b]Armaments:[/b] A longsword (and by long, I mean LONG), a rapier, and numerous retractable blade weapons hidden in various places on his body. [b]Vehicle:[/b] He owns the starship "Leviathan", which houses a small and specialized crew who have adopted the name of the ship. The ship is a sleek and well-kept vehicle, with two blaster cannons, and the ever-important harpoon launchers, of which there are five. All weapons are controllable from the main deck, save for one. That one is vaguely referred to as "IT", and is the product of the Mechanic's "Research". (The Mechanic, the mechanic aboard the "Leviathan", is living proof that "what the hell," is always the right answer, or, at least, the one with the most destructive results.) [b]Appearance:[/b] He is a tall (being around 6 feet, 7 inches tall), and rather slender man. He has mid-length grey hair, cat ears and a tail. However, these are the only truly obvious marks of the Kuros on him. He wears retro-ized pirate captain wear (I'll post a picture sometime. I just drew it.) Personality: He is calm, reserved, and capable. His attitude towards others is one of reassured confidence, and his grace with using words can reach any level of society. A brilliant strategist, and a glorious leader. [b]History:[/b] To understand Karith, it is imperative that one should understand his lineage. His father was a noble in Kuros society, having descended from a long line of noble blood that eventually trickled down from a Kuros Demmroar (The equivalent of an Emperor, with a sort of divine heritage as an implication). The Demmroar no longer are revered, having been overtaken by a democratic society. His mother, however, was a warrior with no particular lineage to speak of. She was the daughter of a rape victim, who, after her birth, put her up for adoption. The two met on the battlefield, during the Battle for Kimras Ti'Ie. They were two of ten survivors of a Forsaken onslaught, who fell in love after seeing each other's prowess on the field. It was ill-fated that the interracial laws did not allow for such behaviours, and they had to have the child in secret. Such is Kimras' life. A life of going from hole to hole for shelter, but shown kindness by a Kuros pirate, known as the great "Red Mane". After working for three years on the "Red Mane"'s ship, he was told to buy a ship, and given the money by "Red Mane" himself. He then met his crew in assorted places across the galaxy. His first mate, the impregnable Jeff Muster, is an expert marksman, and also a bit of a gun nut.

Nathan closed his eyes, and focused. [i]A man's mind is his most powerful weapon... I have to focus my energies into the weapon... Into the weapon...[/i] ----- Everything was white. Nathan glanced around, seeing that all around him was a space that seemed immeasurable by all human standards. He didn't know why, but it seemed even more vast than the Earth. Then, a door faded into existence. He touched the knob, which was warm like a handshake. He turned it, and pushed lightly... ...Stepping into a room filled with papers. There was a desk of peculiar make, and the walls were made of metal. The floor was unusual, and he could not identify the material. It seemed like, had a gelatin turned instantly solid, it would have formed this material. It came back slowly, like a trickle of water into a stream. [i]Plastic...[/i] He heard a yawn, and turned to face the noise, putting his hand on his sword. The sight he saw was hard to take. [i]Huh?[/i] he thought, as his hand slid off of his sword. [i]Surely that can't be...[/i] Geni stood next to him. Her sudden presence startled him, but she smiled lightly, easing his tensions. [i]Enjoying yourself?[/i] the thought hit him like a warm breeze. It was much more pleasant than the forced messages sent by Dante. [i]Milady, is that... Really...[/i] [i]Yes. That would be Eclair.[/i] [i]Oh... But the lady is not wearing suitable dress for her rank... Surely that can't be Miss Eclair... [/i] [i]Yes, that's always a puzzler. Every time I've tried this, it seems that everyone is dressed so strangely... But you must admit... It does appear to flatter her figure...[/i] Geni's reply came, teasingly. Nathan blushed instantly, and tried to pry his eyes off of Eclair. [i]You use such base words, Milady! That's not the way to address her ladyship![/i] Geni's smile was mischevious. [i]Oh, you know it's true... Shut up and watch.[/i] Eclair sighed, putting down the file. "Kinas Tiring, eh?" Nathan froze. Geni's glance was concerned. [i]What is it, Nathan?[/i] [i]That's... my name... I'm not sure how to describe it. I just know that it's my name.[/i] He glanced to the head of Eclair's desk, which read "Helen Yvo". [i]And that's... I know that name... It's-[/i] Nathan was interrupted by a knocking at the door. Eclair ran to open it, and was met with a shockingly familiar face. [i]And that's... me?[/i] "Operative Kinas Tiring, alias Nathan reporting for duty, sir- I mean- Ma'am," spoke Kinas. "Eclair or Helen will be fine, Kinas. Or 'Miss'. I've always fancied being called 'Miss'." Geni was over by the desk, looking over the "Ripper" files. [i]Interesting... We're done here, Nathan. Let's leave before we cause any damage.[/i] Nathan wanted to stay, but he knew the damage was not to him... It was to Eclair. [i]Yes. Let's.[/i] ----- He opened his eyes, and was looking intently into Eclair's eyes. He tried something. "Helen," he whispered. Eclair nearly fell over backward with the utterance. "Wh-What?" Nathan sagged. "It's.. nothing," he said, resigned. Geni stood a second later, smiling wide. "We've got some work to do!" Nathan caught a brief message from Geni. [i]...wait until Nathan finds out...[/i]

Nathan closed his eyes, and focused. [i]A man's mind is his most powerful weapon... I have to focus my energies into the weapon... Into the weapon...[/i] ----- Everything was white. Nathan glanced around, seeing that all around him was a space that seemed immeasurable by all human standards. He didn't know why, but it seemed even more vast than the Earth. Then, a door faded into existence. He touched the knob, which was warm like a handshake. He turned it, and pushed lightly... ...Stepping into a room filled with papers. There was a desk of peculiar make, and the walls were made of metal. The floor was unusual, and he could not identify the material. It seemed like, had a gelatin turned instantly solid, it would have formed this material. It came back slowly, like a trickle of water into a stream. [i]Plastic...[/i] He heard a yawn, and turned to face the noise, putting his hand on his sword. The sight he saw was hard to take. [i]Huh?[/i] he thought, as his hand slid off of his sword. [i]Surely that can't be...[/i] Geni stood next to him. Her sudden presence startled him, but she smiled lightly, easing his tensions. [i]Enjoying yourself?[/i] the thought hit him like a warm breeze. It was much more pleasant than the forced messages sent by Dante. [i]Milady, is that... Really...[/i] [i]Yes. That would be Eclair.[/i] [i]Oh... But the lady is not wearing suitable dress for her rank... Surely that can't be Miss Eclair... [/i] [i]Yes, that's always a puzzler. Every time I've tried this, it seems that everyone is dressed so strangely... But you must admit... It does appear to flatter her figure...[/i] Geni's reply came, teasingly. Nathan blushed instantly, and tried to pry his eyes off of Eclair. [i]You use such base words, Milady! That's not the way to address her ladyship![/i] Geni's smile was mischevious. [i]Oh, you know it's true... Shut up and watch.[/i] Eclair sighed, putting down the file. "Kinas Tiring, eh?" Nathan froze. Geni's glance was concerned. [i]What is it, Nathan?[/i] [i]That's... my name... I'm not sure how to describe it. I just know that it's my name.[/i] He glanced to the head of Eclair's desk, which read "Helen Yvo". [i]And that's... I know that name... It's-[/i] Nathan was interrupted by a knocking at the door. Eclair ran to open it, and was met with a shockingly familiar face. [i]And that's... me?[/i] "Operative Kinas Tiring, alias Nathan reporting for duty, sir- I mean- Ma'am," spoke Kinas. "Eclair or Helen will be fine, Kinas. Or 'Miss'. I've always fancied being called 'Miss'." Geni was over by the desk, looking over the "Ripper" files. [i]Interesting... We're done here, Nathan. Let's leave before we cause any damage.[/i] Nathan wanted to stay, but he knew the damage was not to him... It was to Eclair. [i]Yes. Let's.[/i] ----- He opened his eyes, and was looking intently into Eclair's eyes. He tried something. "Helen," he whispered. Eclair nearly fell over backward with the utterance. "Wh-What?" Nathan sagged. "It's.. nothing," he said, resigned. Geni stood a second later, smiling wide. "We've got some work to do!" Nathan caught a brief message from Geni. [i]...wait until Nathan finds out...[/i]

Nathan slowly rose to his feet. "So, Milord, what do you propose we do about this 'Jack'?" he said, remembering Jack's strange message. Dante stood, nonplussed. "That is where we run into problems..." he said, pacing. "There really is no way for us to seek him out, as we don't really know who, or dare I say [i]what[/i], he is." "Assuming it's a 'he', sir?" Nathan asked, not intentionally sarcastic, but still meant to shed doubt on Dante. "Yes. Assuming it's a 'he'," Dante replied bitterly. "Please don't burden me with semantics, watchdog." Nathan bowed his head in submission. He knew that fighting nobles only brought trouble. "I shall have the watch keep an eye on the streets." He looked at Eclair. "In the meantime, I don't think any of us should risk being alone. We should travel in pairs. I can take leave of the watch for awhile, and I daresay that you fine nobles have nothing much to do yourselves?" The nobles exchanged looks. If there was an expression that indicated someone was crossing out party after party in their mental calendar, this was it. "I think I can free up some time..." said Dante, wincing at the loss of one more gala. The others chimed in with reluctant agreement. Nathan nodded, turning to Rufus. "You're quite handy with a sword, yes?" Rufus waved a pistol in the air. "And a gun." Nathan turned to Dante. "And your skills rival my own, Milord. I believe we should distribute the men among the ladies, just to play it safe." Dante grinned. [i]You just want to be alone with-[/i] Nathan cut him off with a stream of subconscious profanity that would have made Sir Frances Drake himself seasick. "I'll take Geni, then." Came an injured sounding Dante. Rufus laughed, and turned to Ariana. "I think it's obvious who I'm taking." Nathan felt his heart skip a beat as he turned to Eclair. "I'll protect you, Miss Eclair." Eclair nodded, and smiled sweetly. "Thank you, Nathan." Nathan bowed. "It is my pleasure, I assure you." He tried not to remember the night of the burglary that nearly killed Eclair. He had meant no harm to anyone, especially not Vincent... -------- [i]"Nathan! What has happened?" "Nothing to fear, Milord. The Missus is only a mite shaken. She will be fine. We had a minor burglary, sir." Vincent paused. "The glass to [/i]her[i] window was broken. How did you find him in time?" Nathan paused. "I was guarding the Lady in her bedchambers, Milord." Vincent's face was pale. "Bed... Chambers?" "Oh, nothing like that, Milord..." Nathan reassured him. Vincent still remained pale. Vincent hung his head. "Out, Nathan." "Sir?" "I said OUT!" "Milord." Nathan saluted, and walked briskly out of the foyer. Vincent was left alone in the drawing room. "I fear that, even though I have Eclair's hand... Nathan will always have her heart..." he muttered. "Vincent? Oh, thank the merciful Lord! The most horrible thing just happened-" Vincent put on a smile, and listened to Eclair's story, the whole time knowing that soon he would no longer be necessary... OOC: Oh, BURN! Someone's just corrected the first FALLACY! O_o

"Hey, there." Nathan replied tersely. He accepted the hand that was offered to him. Ariana grinned menacingly, "So has he proposed yet?" There was a sudden silence. Eclair began to speak, but was cut off by Nathan. "I hardly believe it would be appropriate for someone of my status to ask anything but friendship of Lady Eclair." His statement was like a giant period at the end of his sentence. "Yes, of course. How could you say such a thing?" she said, rather flatly. Nathan turned her a short glance. Arianna shrugged. "Just poking fun, dear. Even if it's inevitable. Good luck, both of you." The couple trotted off, giggling silently, while Nathan and Eclair remained soundless. "So..." Eclair managed. "Did you really mean that?" "Of course," lied Nathan. He tried to keep his face unreadable. It was better that she didn't know... at least not now. He sighed slightly, so that Eclair could not hear him. He thought about the ring that lie in wait at his flat at the other end of town. He looked at Eclair. "What an absurd thought, isn't it?" "Yes, absurd..." she said, absently. Nathan smiled. "Eat, Miss Eclair. They don't call it a dinner party for no reason." He reminded her playfully. "Oh! Yes. Right. Sorry." She said, as if just entering the conversation. [i]Why... Why can't I ask her?[/i] he wondered intensely, as he lifted the fork to his mouth. [i]Because she will say "no"[/i]

OOC: Listening to: "Ghost Love Score" by Nightwish. BADASS music, by the way. IC: The doors opened, and before Nathan lay a legion of tables, covered with exotic foods. People danced in unison as an orchestra played a mellow three-beat score. All this was under the enormous vaulted cieling, which seemed to spread like an ornate sky overhead. He felt himself reach for a gasp, but could not. "It's beautiful," he stated idly. Eclair, whom he was escorting, shrugged. "It's mediochre. You should see the Queen Victoria's villa," she said levelly. She smiled. "You seem easily impressed, even for one who has been bestowed such a high honor." Nathan let a smirk run across his face. "Still, a knight is unable to compare to lordship. I am but a vassal, and at that, a watchman." Eclair appeared to consider this thought, and smiled sweetly. "But you're such a great watchman. You shouldn't downplay your performance, even if in a mediochre field!" She puffed her chest in jest, putting her free arm in the air. "You must be proud of your position!" Nathan chuckled silently to himself. "I guess you're right, Miss Eclair." He let his eyes run over Eclair. She looked wonderful in her evening dress, which was an intense blue. He smiled at her sadly, knowing that he was just one of many suitors that wished to ask for her hand in marriage. He looked once again on the room, whose splendor had dimmed in comparison to Eclair's radiant face. He looked over at Lord Dante, whose grin was smug, but understanding. [i]I don't need mind-reading to see what's going on there...[/i] came Dante's "voice" in Nathan's head. Nathan turned a bright shade of red. He straightened up, and shot a nervous glance towrds Eclair, who seemed to be turning away just as he did so. He sighed, and pulled out Eclair's chair. They both sat, and awaited the call for dinner to start. "Ahem!" rang a voice. All eyes looked at a Maitre' d' at the head of the table. In a heavy french accent, he said, "Dinner is served." OOC: I CAN DO THIS AT SCHOOL NOW! WOOT! ^_- You'll be seeing more of me. Sorry for the shortness, too.

Yeah, Power Metal! I've found it very hard, when I'm listening to Power Metal, not to make dramatic poses, and scowl in an epic manner, while shouting out the words, and feeling the power of the Gods flowing into me like a mighty whirlwind of DOOM! Really, comparing EVERYTHING to whirlwinds should have been one of the rules. I love that stuff. Go Manowar! -OM

Man, oh man... This is going to be some serious concert season... First there'll be 3 Inches of Blood, October 1st. And then there will be Judas Priest and Anthrax, October 29th. AND THEN THERE'LL BE CHILDREN OF BODOM, AMON AMARTH AND TRIVIUM! I'm just bummed that we dont get to see Arch-Enemy and Dark Tranquility. They're touring with Trivium right now, and are completely skipping SLC as far as my intelligence goes. Yeah, I live in Park City, too! So I'll see SilentSecurity there! (I'm going with JoB and Rhym, meself.) Hm... so are any other great metal bands setting their sights on our fair capitol of SLC!?

[quote name='Box Hoy']Very few people know that metal evolved from blues. So take Nu Metal and you'll prolly find the same thing.[/quote] Actually, all rock, be it metal or otherwise is derivitive of blues. Not to say that was a dumb comment or anything... It's just a comment. Another little known fact, however, is that Metal draws from numerous Classical influences as well. Two composers that come to mind are Bach and Paganini. In any case, I don't see what the big issue is here. I, being an avid fan of *gasp* both NuMetal (pardon umlaut omission) and True Metal, am seeing a very sad rhetoric here. Rene (pardon accent omission), the mere fact that you are trying to say that NuMetal (puo) is True Metal is proof that these rules have some sway. NuMetal (puo) and True Metal are just different. 'Nuff said. This is kind of like comparing some Pop-Punk band like Green Day to Lamb of God. Or trying to say that Ray Charles was really trying to write Rap music. If you don't get my point yet, It's like comparing two bands that are very different and trying to say that one band is the other band. In short, this doesn't work. (Unless we're talking Pop-Punk) However, I do disagree slightly with some of these rules. I will admit that many NuMetal (puo) bands sound eerily similar. But here's something - Many of the NuMetal (puo) band that I listen to vary quite a bit. American Head Charge (unfortunately, they sound a lot like the bastard child of Passenger and Lamb of God) sounds fairly different than Demon Hunter. I like Korn, which, as Jake of Bodom has pointed out numerous times in RL, is not that good of a band. I second that motion, and would go as far as to say they suck so bad that it really hurts sometimes. But, I still like a couple of their songs. They give me stuff that Children of Bodom and Tool don't. Even if it's kind of whiny and smells of a used diaper at times, it's still a band I like to listen to. Sure, you may think it's cool to think your band is the best. (It may even be true if you listen to Tool. I am very avid about this point. Call me a callous, pretentious b@stard, if you like. I still love my Tool!). But sometimes you have to consider that the folk from the Norselands are just a little (whole flippin' lot) better than our american bands. In any case, Metal and NuMetal (puo) are very different, yet equally necessary sides on two very similar looking coins. And yes, rene (pao), calling NuMetal (puo) Metal does not help anything. It just causes arguments and flame wars. BUT... LET METALHEADS OF THE WORLD UNITE! Peace.

Hmmm... This is a really tough question. I think if I had to choose between Mugen from Samurai Champloo and Spike from Cowboy Bebop... I'd be Mugen. He hasn't died yet! Woohoo! :p

OOC: Thank you, Natchan. *bow* IC: Nathan felt confused. "Miss... Eclair?" He repeated. "There is a..." he began, but silenced himself. He knew that her reaction mirrored his own, and that this sudden change was not one to be openly discussed. He added the presence of the aura to the long list of things to think about later, and redirected the conversation. "There is a rumor of a thief tonight. "Fingers" James as I remember. He's already taken a hefty sum from a few nobles, and I wouldn't like to see your fair name be put on his list, if you catch my direction..." Eclair's eyes seemed vacant for a moment, and then refocused. "Ah, yes. Must be going. Maybe you should - ehm... drop by the estate sometme. Then we can discuss the matters of the blue - er - drawing room! Yes, the drawing room! Good day, Sir Nathan!" Nathan feigned tipping his hat, performing an elaborate bow. "Wouldn't miss it for the world, milady." He smiled, and shut her carriage door for her. "Wouldn't miss it for the world." Eclair's carriage started up again, Edward at the reins. "Make sure she's home safely, Edward." Nathan gave him a nod, and a curious wink. Then he saw something. Something vast and powerful. It filled his body with an uncanny chill, bringing with it a sense of unbounded dread. Down the street, not 50 yards away, was a faint, sickly red aura. The mere sight of it smelled of fresh blood. So much, in fact, that Nathan felt that if he were to open his mouth, he would taste it as well. He was paralyzed. The aura grew slowly, the unusual chant growing stronger and stronger in Nathan's mind. [i]From Hell, Jack From Hell, Jack From Hell, Jack...[/i] Nathan could not move. The world stood still. He looked at the carriage. He had time to hail Edward, to get as far away as he could, to leave the smell, the taste, the feeling of blood running down his skin... "Excuse me, Miss Eclair..." Nathan said. "Yes?" She answered. There was a similar dread coming through her voice. "How about I take you up on that offer right now? I'm not busy." Eclair seemed shaken. "Of... course. Come right in." "Thank you, milady." "No trouble at all, no trouble at all. Edward? Home." "Yes, milady" came Edward's unshaken answer. As the carriage clopped away, Nathan took one last look behind him. He knew only one thing. Two words so clear and solid that they were the only thoughts in his mind. [i]Found You...[/i]

OOC: I am SO sorry for being late... ^_^' I'll try to do what I do best, and make a dramatic entrance! Hope you don't mind... ------------ Grey streets, grey people, grey city. The city of London was hardly vibrant under the cover of rainclouds. Nathan walked along the street. It was about time to start his shift. *Ting!* "We need an officer on Elm Street!" A bell and a voice shot through the misty grey. [i]That's my cue,[/i] thought Nathan as he ran full tilt to the adjacent street. He arrived just in time to intercept a shady-looking man running quickly down the road. His hands were a color. The color red. He was panting, and still holding the knife. Nathan clotheslined the man, who subsequently fell to the ground. "Bugger!" was the only word the man could utter before he found a long sword poised gently above his neck. "Who was it this time, Green Roger?" "None of your-" was all Roger could get out before he realized that his protest was in vain. He sighed. "A beggar" They said in unison. Roger looked confused. "How did you-" he gasped, bewildered. "Magick." Nathan said, sarcastically, as two other, heavier officers appeared with a pair of cuffs and a pistol. "You're coming with us!" One said, as if it needed to be. "Yeah, yeah, yeah! Jus' keep this wank of a copper offa me!" Roger protested verbally, but not physically as he was led towards the paddywagon. Nathan sighed, waiting until they were out of sight. "That was close... I've got to keep a better watch on that..." He touched his head. "Why do I know these things, anyway?" All of a sudden, he felt a chill. "Huh?" His mind recieved something from outside. It was simply this: [i]From Hell, Jack.[/i] He shook his head. "What the hell? What's this?" He said, barely audible. It was then that he heard the clatter of hooves and wheels. OOC: Just so's someone else can help me in, ya know?

[quote name='ShonenSamuraiMugen]I know more about metal than you any way. [B]I play drums, guitar and bass.[/B'] [/quote] Mugen, and I mean this in the least bastardly way that I can, but [B]what the hell are you talking about?[/B] Just because you can "play the drums, guitar and bass" does not make any drastically effective demonstration of your musical knowledge! As a matter of fact, I refer to another part of your article to demonstrate. [quote name='ShonenSamuraiMugen']The metal you guys listen to is retarded any way. Listen to something good and real. Not fake. Real. Slipknot. Atreyu. Anything.[/quote] Now, correct me if I am mistaken, but Rhym, the person you have unjustly accused of listening to [quote name='ShonenSamuraiMugen']retarded[/quote] metal, used the bands Dark Tranquility, Children of Bodom, Stratovarius, and Opeth. You used the bands Atreyu and Slipknot. Let's make something clear, shall we? What you refer to as [quote name='ShonenSamuraiMugen']retarded[/quote], is actually the true, honest-to-lucifer, modern vein of Heavy Metal. Bands such as Slipknot are the bastard children of said music. "Why?" you may ask yourself, but this is the underlying reason. Slipknot is Nu-Metal (pardon the omission of the umlaut). They are what has often been described as a "cheap immitation" and a "haphazard attempt" at making Metal. As a fan of Slipknot, myself, I can say that there are RESEMBLANCES between bands like Slipknot and true Metal music, but nothing to justify labelling other Metal bands as [quote name='ShonenSamuraiMugen']retarded[/quote], and Slipknot AS metal. Atreyu? Well, actually I just heard some of their songs today, and they are a decent metal band. I use the word DECENT. Bands like Children of Bodom have talent that the members of Slipknot and Atreyu can only admire. Guitarists like Alexi Laiho (Children of Bodom), Adam Jones (Tool), Mark Morton (Lamb of God), Jesper Stromblad (In Flames), Phil Sgrosso (As I Lay Dying), and many others, have attained a level of musical creativity and ingenuity that your little Pop-Punk bands can ony try to top with catchy phrases and poppy little "melodies". Your argument against true metal bands is a disturbing, and suprisingly indicative one. You see, what you described as metal, "Having that metal goth voice in it" is a preposterous statement that can only be made by the musically undersuppled. Aside from that, being a Goth and being a Metalhead are often very separate things. A goth may like completely different music besides metal, usually goth rock, which, by the way, most times is SUNG and not growled. In short, your fallacy is no small thing. It is a highly alarming offence to me and to all those who truly stand by the banner of metal. I leave you with a quote from Manowar, the loudest metal band in history: "The gods made heavy metal and they saw that is was good They said to play it louder than Hell We promised that we would When losers say it's over with you know that it's a lie The gods made heavy metal and it's never gonna die We are the true believers It's our turn to show the world In the fire of heavy metal we were burned It's more than our religion it's the only way to live But the enemies of metal we can't forgive Cause we believe in the power and the might And the gods who made metal are with us tonight" Adieu, -OM

Is this post dead...? If not, HERE I GO!!! Future Name: Kinas Tiring Victorian Name: Nathan Hobbs Gender: Male Age: 25 Social Rank: Sir Nathaniel Hobbs Psy-Tech ability: Telepath Appearance: Has short blond hair, steel blue eyes, and light colored skin Personality: From his years of being a telepath, he is a generally agreeable person, excelling in the use of many different languages. Though mild mannered and calm, he is perfectly capable of killing anything dead. His preferred weapon is a rapier he fashioned himself, but he is capable of putting any conventional Victorian weapon to satisfactory use. Victorian Bio: Sir Nathaniel Hobbs has been in the service of Her Majesty the Queen Victoria since he can remember. His memories after a certain point are a bit frayed. They come in jumbles and painful headaches. His current status is a Watchman in the Night Guard. Future Bio: A famous swordsman, and a brilliant Psy-Operative. His skill lies in his speed and ability to not only think, but to read others' thoughts quickly. A sharp mind, and a sharp sword. Together, they will fight to stop the Ripper Program.

OOC: Wow, Henry has a mysterious medical condition , suffers from extreme pain, and nobody gives a crap... wow, that's cold... :animecry: IC: DK stood up, supported by a few of the people around the hotel. "Thanks." he managed. He sat down bodily on one of the couches in the lobby as a medic came to his aid. He was asked a few questions, and given a different prescription. "There are a few things you might have... what has your sexual activity been like recently?" The medic asked, in all seriousness. "None to speak of... At all." "Well, then it's probably not an STD..." "Thanks for your reassurance, doc," DK retorted coldly. "What I think it is... I think you have a mild addiction to Aspirin. What have you been using it for?" "Pains. I get them a lot. I have a history of arthritis in my family." "If it was arthritis, aspirin wouldn't help a hell of a lot," the medic replied. "I think you're avoiding 'hard' drugs to get your mind off things. Am I correct?" DK didn't respond. "Just give me the damn prescription, okay?" "Suit yourself." The medic handed him a slip of paper, and gave him verbal instructions on where to get it. He left afterwards, reassured the hotel director that everything was going to be fine, and left. DK trudged to the elevator. "I do [i]not[/i] have an addiction." He looked at the paper. It was blank. "Fucking prick..." he muttered. ----- He reached the floor he was on, grabbing up his sparse luggage and heading to the door marked "301". He opened it without much difficulty, and set his luggage down on the bed. "All alone again, I see." He looked at the bed, a little nonplussed. "Oh, fine. I'll mingle." ----- He walked out of the door, watching Alice (who was nice enough to help him while he was in pain) and some person he hadn't seen walking down the hall. They walked into a room. DK just sighed, and walked on. "Whatever." He got on the elevator, and went back down to the lobby, where a few people still remained. He walked up to a newcomer, and extended his hand. "The name's Henry. Friends call me DK. I'm here for the OB party, as I hope you are," he said, "otherwise I am going to feel like a complete idiot." "The name's Carol. My OB name's Symphony," she replied, not shaking his hand. "0ber0n the Neko," DK offered. He put his hand down. "You just get here?" "Yeah. Hey, I see some of my friends over there. Later." She walked away, not rudely, but in a mildly disinterested way. DK rolled his eyes. "Nice to meet you, too," he mumbled. "Maybe I should just go talk to Steph. She probably knows some of these people..." ----- DK knocked on the door to what the registration desk's personnel had told him was Stephanie's room. "Hey, you in there, Steph?" OOC: Sorry if including you a little made you unhappy, Carol. I need some inclusion myself, otherwise I'm not sure if I can keep trying to assert myself... :animestun

O_O what was I [i]SMOKING[/i]!? Yeah, you're right, Evanescence (on a recent re-listen of their album) is DEFINETELY NOT METAL! But! Here are some of my persoal favorites, for those looking for a band! Black Sabbath Iron Maiden TOOL(!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) Lamb of God Cradle of Filth God Forbid Kataklysm Yngwie Malmsteen (sometimes referred to as "The Rising Force Band") Children of Bodom System of a Down In Flames Mudvayne Finntroll Blind Guardian (and I just like these guys, so what if they aren't "Metal" per se?) Korn (same with these guys) Atomship And here are a couple who are good... but I personally don't enjoy. Dimmu Buorgir (This is spelled wrong. Ask Jake) Nightwish Sonata Arctica Yeah... I'm not really THAT ignorant... One thing I'm getting really concerned about is... Metal is becoming WAY too technical. Like people are embarrassed about it or something. It's no longer "Metal", it's "Black Metal" or "Hard Rock" or "Deathcore" or "Gore Metal" or "Nu Metal" or "Hardcore" or "Doom Metal". Let's not euphemize this, folks. We all remember what happened to Techno... O_O and the English language. Metal is metal. If I want to think that Korn is metal, or that The Acacia Strain is metal, or that Rage Against the Machine is metal, then let me do it. It's not gonna HURT someone... This may be a factor in the decline of the Genre. The "technicalization" of everything. It's metal. Whether it be Black, Death, or Nu. Ya Damn MUSIC RACISTS! ^_^ \m/ rock on. -DK