Horendithas

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"][CENTER][B][SIZE="2"]Exposition[/SIZE][/B][/CENTER] [I]Wait? We won?t be using the gate? [/I] Unlike Adrian? Nathan was impossibly quick as he opened up a path for the trio. It happened so quickly, that the realization of what Nathan had just said, barely had time to properly register before they had shifted their existence fully back to that of a Shinigami as they entered the portal. Adrian was immediately struck by a wave of disorientation, causing him to pull back instinctively. But Nathan was clearly prepared for it and simply caught him by the shoulder, keeping him from falling back, helping him to slip through the turbulence of the trip. Then - a split second later - it was over and they were through. Adrian wobbled a little bit, feeling dizzy as it took a moment for him to adjust. Nathan just waited patiently, removing his hand once it was clear Adrian was recovered enough to stand on his own. He looked around to see that instead of coming out at the main gate located in the city where all traffic was handled, they were instead off in the distance. Far enough that it wasn't even part of the actual city but rather what would be considered the countryside, a small gentle hill that overlooked the city proper. It was a toss up as to who was the most surprised, Adrian or Astera. Neither one were aware that it was possible to bypass the gate. Regulations strictly required that anyone passing to the other side had to make use of the gate, no exceptions. Doing so was a sure way to get into trouble. [I]I wonder why he didn?t use the gate?[/I] ?[B]Sorry about that,[/B]? Nathan apologized, ?[B]The trip isn?t as smooth as the gate.[/B]? Adrian cast his gaze about, looking for signs as to where he was, not wanting to expend the energy to do so, looking for landmarks instead. A moment later he saw what he was looking for and smiled a bit. ?[B]Well since you managed to land us on the road to where Gavrie lives? you?re forgiven.[/B]? He teased. Though it would have been better to say the road leading out to one of the smaller communities. [CENTER]---------------------[/CENTER] Gavrie was sitting lazily on the veranda to his home out in the country side with his familiar Karl; who was currently curled up along his shoulders sleeping. He was not surprised when the aura?s he felt approaching turned out to be Adrian and Astera. The third he couldn?t quite pin down, but that didn?t matter. He shook Karl awake. ?[B]Looks like we have company, so stop being lazy.[/B]? Karl just stretched and moved off of Gavrie?s shoulders so he could stand up to greet the three who were coming up the few stairs to the veranda of his small abode, moving to simply sit and watch from the chair that had just been vacated. ?[B]Well, if it isn?t Sir?[/B]? Gavrie started. ?[B]Nathan.[/B]? Gavrie just raised an eyebrow and shifted his gaze to Adrian and Astera instead, his eyes narrowing slightly as he got a good feel for their auras and thus current state of being. He just stared at the pair, saying nothing, the silence weighing heavily until Adrian finally snapped. ?[B]You can stop that! I didn?t have a choice![/B]? The silence continued as Gavrie just raised an eyebrow and glanced briefly at Nathan and then back at Adrian and Astera again, the pair disconcerted by his quiet gaze. ?[B]I didn?t tell him,[/B]? Adrian hastily explained. ?[B]He figured it out on his own.[/B]? ?[B]I see,[/B]? Gavrie finally said. ?[B]So? What brings you here?[/B]? ?[B]It?s a long story.[/B]? ?[B]Take a seat then,[/B]? he indicated the assorted chairs on the veranda before making himself comfortable, Karl doing the same, curling back up on his shoulders once they were settled in. Adrian started from when he had gotten the assignment in regards to Aeru being kidnapped, leaving nothing out, answering all of Gavrie?s questions, even when they made him look stupid for his actions. He didn?t miss Gavrie?s look when he explained how he had foolishly attacked Victor L?Envers men, something he was sure he?d get lectured over later on. Nor did he miss how Nathan just listened to what was being told, saying nothing. It took a while before Adrian was finally finished with what had happened and answered Gavrie?s questions to his satisfaction. When he was done, more than anything Adrian wanted to get some answers about the vampires, but Gavrie?s thoughtful look as he mulled over all that he had been told was something Adrian was well acquainted with. He would talk when he was good and ready and not one moment sooner. ?[B]Well now,[/B]? Gavrie finally said, ?[B]I would imagine that you?re here for three reasons. The first being to finish healing. Then to get more information on vampires followed by further training.[/B]? Adrian nodded shortly. ?[B]So that leaves only one question left.[/B]? He trailed off, looking over to Nathan. ?[B]I can?t answer that one, you?d have to ask Nathan why he wanted to meet you.[/B]? Gavrie just stood up, prompting the others to do so as well. ?[B]Why don?t we go out back then? Though you and Astera might want to go and rest instead. By the looks of it, you?ll be here for a few days at the very least.[/B]? ?[B]I?d rather be outside,[/B]? Adrian stated. The fields behind the home were more open and the feel of sunlight on his skin would be soothing. Given a choice, he would always take open space over being inside, Astera was the same way. ?[B]Suit yourself,[/B]? Gavrie gave Karl a knowing look, resulting in the familiar staying behind on the veranda while the rest of them moved to the field behind the home, the same one where Adrian had found him when he came for help to get the bond between him and Astera removed. Though that was before he found out it couldn?t be undone.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][quote name='Sandy']I think she loves herself too much to do that. Besides, nobody knows she was involved with the Underdogs yet. So I guess she'll be trying to do her everything to fake innocence at this point. But perhaps Augustus, the disabled prince, knows the truth... Hmm...[/QUOTE]It sounds to me like you're just looking for a convenient excuse to get rid of her or at the very least shove her out of the spotlight. The Princess has been an instrumental part of the rebellion so I find it highly unlikely she'd suddenly move to the side as a main plot character. She was even part of arranging the kidnapping of Catherine and Audrey, so to keep in character, she should be doing [I]something[/I]. Someone like that would be looking for a way to stop the new ruler from becoming secure in their power. Seriously Sandy, without more direction as to what manner you want her out of the way, I just don't see her out of the picture here. We haven't been given any indication that anyone was aware of what she was up to. So the idea that her twin brother Augustus suddenly enters the picture to interfere with her? It seems really far fetched to me. The only thing I see as being realistic is having the haughty Princess attempting to boss the Starks around for failing her only to have them kill the little twit. Or dragged away and locked into one of those little cells where they have Leonhart and Catherine. I would imagine humiliating her would be something the Underdogs would enjoy. I'm sure I don't have to explain how something like that could get rather ugly for the Princess. After all, unlike Leonhart and Catherine, she's useless now that she's not the new ruler. She's in the dangerous position of no longer having any real power.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/dawlish-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Daedalus was eyeing the pile of reports on his desk in his quarters, debating on whether or not to attempt to tackle a few before getting into full dress uniform for the upcoming coronation that he would be required to attend. A quick glance at the chronometer showed he had the time, but the loud banging of someone at his door caught his attention and he abandoned the reports to see who was there. Taking advantage of the distraction to ignore the reports if only for a moment. He opened the door to find Dwalish standing there a wry grin on his face. “[B]Come to rub it in have you?[/B]” Someone had to stay on the [I]Sentinel[/I] after all, that task naturally falling to Dwalish as it’s executive officer. As Air-General of the First Fleet, Daedalus was the one required to attend. Though even if he wasn’t, it was likely as an Almagest he still would have ended up being required to go. He stifled a sigh. “[B]Not at all, I figured you could use some company.[/B]” It was clear he was quite amused at Daedalus' obvious reluctance to attend the coronation. Daedalus raised an eyebrow at that statement and at the glint in Dwalish’s eyes, wondering what he had done. Though he could guess. “[B]There’s no need for Harrison to be miserable and bored too.[/B]” “[B]Who says anything about being miserable and bored?[/B]” Dwalish smirked, confirming Daedalus‘ guess as to what he was up to. “[B]If he’s going to be an officer then he needs to learn it’s important to attend social functions as his duty will require. Besides, I’ve already sent for him.[/B]” Daedalus finally did sigh inwardly, thinking on how Dwalish was enjoying himself a little too much. “[B]Then you’d better go and get him prepared.[/B]” Dwalish just saluted and then turned with a smile to head down the corridor. Once he was gone Daedalus shook his head a little and closed the door to his quarters; turning to go and get ready himself. [hr=indigo]100[/hr] [CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/dawlish-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Training had been going well that morning, even if Sergeant Garett was every bit as demanding if not more than he was the other day. So it was with great surprise that Harrison halted what he was doing when he was called out and ordered to come over to where Garett was standing, overseeing the recruits. Confused, Harrison did so, dropping his current task and heading over, wondering what the Sergeant wanted. “[B]Get going Harrison, you’re to report to Colonel Almagest in the junior officers quarters.[/B]” “[B]Yes sir.[/B]” He responded smartly before taking off to see just what it was that Dwalish wanted. Wondering just what it could be since he wasn’t due to report to him until after morning training and lunch. He wasn’t sure what to expect when he got there and found Dwalish standing in front of the door to his tiny little quarters. He was holding what looked like a fancier version of the uniform he was wearing, sporting an amused grin. “[B]There you are Harry,[/B]” He thrust the uniform into his hands as soon as he was in reach. “[B]Get changed into that immediately, you have a coronation to attend with dad.[/B]” Harrison gave him a flat stare, “[B]What the hell are you talking about?[/B]” Since when was he required to attend something like that? “[B]You’re an officer Harry, and as such, that means you’re going to have duties that you may not care for.[/B]” He opened the door to Harrison’s quarters. “[B] So stop whining and get changed.[/B]” He caught Harrison by the arm and shoved him into his quarters, pulling the door shut behind him and then Dwalish smiled when he caught the sound of muffled cursing coming through the door. A couple minutes later and the door opened again to reveal Harrison wearing the dress uniform, a scowl on his face as he came out, closing the door. Dwalish just made him turn around checking to make sure he got everything right. “[B]I suppose you’ll do. Now get going, you don’t want to keep dad waiting.[/B]” He grinned at Harrison’s look of irritation before Harrison finally turned and left the junior officer’s quarters without another word. Dwalish just chuckled to himself as he watched Harrison leave. Once he was gone Dwalish finally left to head back to the bridge. [hr=indigo]100[/hr] [CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Harrison was trying to keep his irritation under control, wondering how the hell he had ended up being required to go to the coronation. Wearing of all things a fancy uniform that was stiff and uncomfortable.[I] God damn...[/I] He resisted the urge to try and straighten it in an attempt to get comfortable. For some reason as he approached the airship where his father was waiting, this time he got the feeling that there was no way he could get out of it. He was only slightly mollified by the fact that the uniform his dad was wearing was even more elaborate than what he had on. It didn't help him all that much though, since in spite of the scowl on his face, Daedalus seemed pleased to see him, placing a hand on his shoulder when he got close enough. "[B]You look good Harrison.[/B]" He motioned for him to follow as he entered the air ship they would be using to get to the coronation. There was no one else on the small airship Daedalus was piloting to the landing field close to the Mirror Palace. Harrison paid little attention to his father's conversation with those on the ground as he gained the clearance to land the tiny air ship. “[B]Is it true dad?[/B]” Harrison finally asked from his seat opposite of where Daedalus sat. “[B]That officers have to attend stuff like this?[/B]” It wouldn't surprise him to find out that Dwalish had pulled a fast one on him. It certainly wouldn't be the first time if he had. “[B]It’s never just [I]stuff[/I] Harrison.[/B]” Daedalus brought the ship in, landing it with his usual skill. “[B]There’s a lot to be learned by paying attention at social functions. Don't let the trappings of a gathering like this dull your observation skills.[/B]” He got up and made for the exit to the ship, Harrison following along. [I]Right,[/I] Harrison thought sarcastically.[I] Does he really expects me to believe that? [/I] “[B]Welcome Air-General Almagest, 2nd Lieutenant Almagest.[/B]” A well dressed fussy man said politely as they both exited the air ship, clearly there to greet them. “[B]This way if you please?[/B]” Harrison said nothing, following his father’s lead as the man took them to where the coronation was to be held. There was a sturdy pavilion already set up for the many chairs for those who would be attending. It was apparent immediately to Harrison that this was going to be even more stuffy and boring than anything he had ever attended. The entire deal progressing with ponderous slowness, he turned to Daedalus who had a semi pleasant expression on his face as he dealt with those who were circulating around; talking with everyone who was in attendance. “[B]Dad?[/B]” He asked in a tone only loud enough for Daedalus to hear. “[B]Aren’t you bored?[/B]” “[B]Of course,[/B]” he answered, “[B]No one but a moron could avoid being bored by all this. You learn to either sit or stand and smile until your face and your backside are both stiff. Then you do it some more.[/B]” “[B]Ugh,[/B]” Harrison fought to keep his expression neutral. “[B]How do you manage?[/B]” “[B]Well there is a secret to it.[/B]” Daedalus answered him. “[B]However, I’m not sure you can handle it.[/B]” “[B]Of course I can.[/B]” Harrison protested. “[B]You have to swear to keep it a secret, otherwise I can’t tell you.[/B]” Daedalus' expression was utterly serious. "[B]It is a military secret after all, not something you can go telling to civilians.[/B]" “[B]I swear! I won't tell.[/B]” Harrison answered immediately, eager to know what his father was talking about. "[B]Well, if you're sure..."[/B] "[B]Of course I'm sure! I won't tell anyone! I promise![/B]" Daedalus just grinned faintly, making Harrison wonder if he was seeing things. “[B]Alright... If you say so... It’s called; The Game.[/B]” “[B]The Game?[/B]” One of Harrison's eyebrows shot up. “[B]Exactly, The Game. The rules are simple, you try to decide what animal the other guests attending the social function remind you of. The first one to laugh loses.[/B]” Harrison couldn’t help but give his dad a quick side glance. [I]Is he kidding?[/I] “[B]I’ll start, to give you an example,[/B]” Daedalus said with a perfectly straight face. “[B]Take the guy in the maroon suit, he’s a badger.[/B]” “[B]A badger?[/B]” Harrison had to fight to keep a grin off of his face. “[B]Well if he’s a badger, his lady’s a watchdog. Look at how she raises her hackles whenever he smiles at that pretty serving girl.[/B]” “[B]You catch on quick,[/B]” Daedalus replied. “[B]Okay, take Primas, he’s a Sphynix.[/B]” Harrison choked, barley keeping the urge to laugh in. [I]He’s actually comparing the new ruler to an animal? A hairless cat no less?[/I] He couldn’t help but look around to see if anyone had noticed, but other than to realize that they were talking, no one had. Their conversation not loud enough for anyone to truly hear what they were saying. “[B]Uh... how about that lady over there? The one wearing black and white? She’s a skunk.[/B]” Harrison glanced at his father to see if it got a reaction, but he didn’t even crack a smile. The banter between the two continued for a bit, with each one trying to outdo the other one with absurd comparisons for those who were in attendance. Harrison was clearly struggling to not laugh while Daedalus, other than the tiniest of smiles from time to time was maintaining a straight face. “[B]Princess Augustine, she’s a toy poodle.[/B]” Daedalus looked at Harrison a tiny half smile on his face. “[B]With her fur painted pink[/B].” Harrison tried to hold it in, but at that point he couldn’t stop the chuckle, barely managing to contain it to sound like a cough instead. Imaging the princess as one of those horrible little yip dogs was more than he could take and true laughter threatened to spill forth. Daedalus just calmly reached over and gave Harrison several good whacks on the back, making it easier for him to hide the laugher. “[B]You lose.[/B]” Daedalus said with a small grin. Harrison just smiled in return, not caring that he lost. It was certainly a social event that he was never going to forget. It certainly made it hard to pay attention to what Primas was saying as he addressed those who were there. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] There was another thing Harrison was learning from being in the military as he quickly got up again the next day, throwing on a clean uniform before heading for the mess hall. And that was how quickly news traveled. It was certainly different than how things were back at home. It was amazing at how quickly things spread through out the ship. For one thing, it seemed as if new recruits and even more seasoned members loved nothing better than to spend their short time during meal breaks to talk about everything going on. From how Gual Rosier was an idiot for ordering the [I]Vigilant[/I] to use lethal force; to the news about Meredyne Artemis being arrested for supposedly helping Jack Deacon. There was nothing they didn?t gossip about, much to Harrison?s surprise. The bets being made as to how much trouble Gaul Rosier would be in and how quickly they?d catch Jack Deacon made Harrison a little uncomfortable though. Not that he cared about Gual Rosier, but Jack? Even if he didn?t really know Jack all that well, helping him and Victoria when they had been caught up in that mess at New Czenoble didn?t seem like the actions of a terrorist to him. He put it out of mind and tried to pay attention to the rest of the conversation, though the new direction the conversation was taking? He could only shake his head a bit. After all, the jokes that were being told? Harrison could only imagine his mother?s expression if she knew the things he had heard since he had been brought on board the[I] Sentinel[/I]. There was certainly no way in hell he was ever going to repeat anything to her, just the thought was enough to make him wince. Though the more friendly manner of some of the men there at least made it clear that the rudeness directed his way from the three who had pestered him the other day was not shared by the others. If anything, he was starting to get a lot of curious glances and even questions from the others. Questions that he answered, but unlike the other day, other than a few laughs most of them didn't care what family he was from. And then breakfast was over and he was off with the others to head for training again with Sergeant Garett. He only hoped that he'd get use to it and soon, he was still a little sore from the training session with his father, the normal training and then the spar with Dwalish the other day. As Harrison made his way to where training was held, he got a glimpse of the conditions outside. It was overcast, looking like it would most likely rain later on in the day. Not that the weather would stop anyone from attending the official coronation for their new ruler. He couldn't help but smile over at least one thing, being on the [I]Sentinel[/I] meant it was unlikely he'd have to attend any silly social function. With a shrug he put it out of mind as he entered the room where the rest of the recruits were gathering.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"]Well, well, well. Interesting twist there in Kathy's post. All I have to say is that Hugo Black had better hope Daedalus never finds out he was responsible for that. Or for actually touching Catherine. Otherwise, connection to the Dynast or not, Daedalus is likely to kill him with his bare hands. I just know that Shy is snickering right about now, considering my warning in regards to Macey and Eva... seems like I warned the wrong character when it came to this type of situation occurring. [/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][I]1. What have your experiences with rudeness on the internet been?[/I] In the past two and a half years? Nothing that I would consider serious, I did have someone get in my face recently or at least try to, but it went no where. [[SIZE="1"]that was elsewhere, not here by the way[/SIZE]] Before I wandered over to myO and then OB, I had a site with art book scans up. Some stupid kid with no life decided to rip all of them, repost them and then claim I stole from them. Which made no sense, no one owns an art book scan since the image belongs to the original artist. But after months of nasty messages from anyone they could convince to join in, I just pulled the plug and moved on. It wasn't worth the hassle. [I] 2. Do you get affected by them, generally?[/I] Not really. Pulling the plug on the afore mentioned site was more of my getting involved with school and things that really are important and not wanting to be bothered with the nonsense. Ironically, the idiot got their site taken over by someone else and now that's a non-issue anyway. It was annoying in the sense that they were so unbelievably stupid over the whole thing. There was also a forum that is no longer around that I ran into problems. Mainly because I knew many of these people in real life. But that got yanked from the net too, over three years ago. I just quit visiting it once it became clear the people running it lacked any maturity whatsoever. [I]3. Have you ever been deliberately rude to someone over the Net, and why?[/I] I can imagine that I have, I tend to be blunt and like anyone else I have times I misunderstand a situation. I wasn't consciously thinking... [I]oh, I'm going to be rude just cause I can[/I]... though. It was more of a... [I]could you be any stupider? [/I] [I]4. Do you think there are times when it's justified?[/I] I like to think there isn't, though at the same time some people no matter what you say, they're going to think you're being rude. After all, they are more interested in putting you down, not realizing that they look like an utter fool by doing so. So naturally being told you're an idiot is going to not only be on some level justified, but rude as well, even if it is the truth. [I] 5. Why do you think people feel the need to make unnecessary comments online?[/I] Anonymity. Online communications reduces a person's sense of his or her own identity, thus providing the means for some to be rude and aggressive when they normally wouldn't be in person. Social psychologists have known for decades that if people reduce the sense of their own identity, they are less likely to stick to social norms. It's like being at a party really, they don't necessarily expect to be taken seriously and the social rules are fairly relaxed. And yet, because comments appear in cold text without important cues like friendly body language, they can easily seem more offensive than they would otherwise. Though there are some that fit into the being a jackass just because they can. Much like the person you mentioned at your youtube page. [/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]It didn?t take Jared long to realize that he had a problem on his hands. He had not expected to run into trouble and now as he considered extracting himself from the situation, he found himself wondering how the hell someone had known he was even coming. At first when he had entered the rundown section of the town that David Barak was supposedly living in, he had given little thought to the odd glances his uniform had gotten. That in itself was nothing new, civilians always tended to stare at the military, especially when they weren?t use to seeing them in their neighborhood. But now with four people attempting to follow him without being noticed, people who were doing a fair job of it too, he knew he needed to fall back and call for reinforcements. Though it was likely by now that David Barak was long gone. [I]What is Commodore Nazar up to? [/I]He checked his handheld as if pulling up an address when in reality he was preparing to open an emergency transport door, but when he went to contact the [I]Creator[/I], the signal was jammed. [I]Damn.[/I] That settled it, it had to be more than a group of would be thieves. People like that wouldn?t go to the trouble of blocking communications. Casually he stuck it back into his side pouch, resisting the urge to draw his disruptor, he needed to be in a better position for that. One of the buildings he was walking next to was only a story high and as he came to the point between it and the next building, he slipped into the gap between the two. Instantly taking advantage of the tiniest of protrusions in the form of a decorative ridge that went all around the building, quickly climbing up onto the roof. But as he moved to pull his disruptor and take out those who were following him, a hint of movement barely gave him enough warning to dodge the fist moving to strike him. He felt it graze his right cheek and ignored it in favor of striking his opponent hard in the chest, making the man stagger backwards a bit. Jared moved in to finish the job, coming up with a swift undercut to his jaw, this time sending him flying to land hard on his back. Before he could recover Jared pulled his disruptor free and stunned him. He had barely done so when the sound of feet on the roof behind him drew his attention, he pivoted in place to meet the new threat, wincing inwardly when he realized there were five of them. At the same time Jared stunned another one, he himself was hit with a stun blast, causing him to stagger backwards, his mind reeling. If not for the lightweight body armor he always wore under his uniform, he would have been rendered unconscious. In his dazed state he managed to get a few more shots off before something hard struck him from behind at the base of his neck, sending him to his knees. Another strike to his right hand and he lost the disruptor before hands seized him, pinning his arms behind his back as he was forced to his feet. In his half stunned state he couldn?t fight back as the group took turns delivering punishing blows before he was finally released, falling to the ground. Even if he couldn?t seem to shake the stunned feeling as he struggled to get up, Jared couldn?t help but laugh inwardly. He had always known that something like this could happen. He sighed a bit as he waited for them to finish him off since he knew they wouldn't give him time to recover from being stunned. Instead he was surprised by what was said. ?[B]That?s enough.[/B]? A rough voice ordered. ?[B]We?re suppose to deliver him alive remember?[/B]? He barely had time to be surprised by that statement before he heard the sound of a disruptor going off, the tone indicating it was still set on stun. And then as darkness claimed him, his last thought was one of satisfaction. That Sandra would make sure those who were responsible would be dealt with. It would be easy for her to see what he had been checking into before he vanished. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"]Fun, even though I think Allamorph would willingly jump off a cliff instead of becoming the ringleader for that particular trio. :p[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"]Or maybe Macey's motivation is that considering Gustave in the light of remarrying has her thinking she's tired of research. Ready for her life to have more. Though I imagine she'd want to clear up the deal with Gadget first. [/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"]Well since we got so into scythes and all. I found, thanks to Allamorph, a much better visual of what Adrian has. [CENTER][IMG]http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/3928/orientalswordshanweinagea8.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Two of those, with the staff six feet long and the blades two feet. Or around there. :p[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"]Seems that the picture I thought represented Victor, really [I]does [/I]look like Victor according to Allamorph. So... here is Victor people. :p [CENTER][IMG]http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/8300/victorhc7.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Rendering Allamorph speechless among other things was rather fun too. Heh[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][quote name='Clurr'][FONT="Arial"]If you're going to insist on talking about genres, then do it nicely. No name-calling, no insults. Do not get overheated and lose control. Check yourself before you wreck yourself. If anyone has another outburst (ahem, Hunter), I'm going to have to step in for real. Play nice, please.[/FONT][/QUOTE]Seems no one is listening to you Clurr... *sigh* I'm going to put it simply, now that I've gone and edited and removed posts that were nothing more than an argument over genre and your music sucks, I'm going to remind everyone yet again. BEHAVE! The next offender gets a week vacation from OB via a temp ban. No arguments. You got warned when the metal thread was closed, you got warned earlier by myself and now by Clurr. [B]No more warnings. [/B] Grow up and stop with this[I] I'm right - you're wrong[/I] nonsense. It's not that hard to respond to the thread with [I]what you are listening to[/I] without the other stuff tacked into your posts. [/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][quote name='Gavin'][SIZE="1"]I seem to have developed a problem on MyO recently where I'm unable to use the comment function. I've tried clearing my cache to no avail, any help would be very appreciated.[/SIZE][/QUOTE]It has to do with the upcoming release of Version Vibrant. For the moment the two sites are semi separated or something like that. So you have to log in at [url]www.theOtaku.com[/url] in order for commenting to work. If you simply log in via [url]www.myOtaku.com[/url] then the comments don't work, for now. [/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/dawlish-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Harrison couldn't imagine spending all afternoon running errands for Dwalish, and he hadn't, but of all things he was not expecting to be assigned chapters to read in the books that were located in his new quarters. Two hours of [I]-go and read the first two chapters in this book-[/I] and [I]-there will be a test on this when you return-[/I] and he had been sent on his way. The material wasn't terribly difficult, but it was highly detailed, and Dwalish's verbal test made it clear to Harrison that there would be no skimming through like he had done at Chaos. Other than the swordsmanship classes he enjoyed so much, he barely paid attention for anything else. He had always had a knack for remembering things and simply reading through the textbooks had always been enough for getting decent grades. But here? He had barely been on board [I]The Sentinel [/I]for a day and it was already obvious that there would be no skimming when it came to learning the tasks put before him. Not that he would skip training or anything here, he may have done that at Chaos - cut classes - but he wasn't going to do that here. Even if it was busy, it was a lot more interesting than Chaos ever had been. He finished up an errand only to be surprised when Dwalish give him an interesting look and motioned for him to follow him off the bridge. Considering that it was only about an hour before dinner time Harrison wondered if he was going to get another sparring lesson. [I]I wonder where dad is?[/I] Other than a glimpse, he hadn't seen him at all during the day. He'd been to busy to really pay attention to it though. But now as Dwalish led him into one of the training rooms he wondered what Daedalus was up to. "[B]Close the door Harrison.[/B]" He did as he was asked, turning to face Dwalish who was standing in the middle of the room, a stern expression on his face. Puzzled by the lack of equipment in the room, other than the standard equipment issued to all officers and recruits that both he and Dwalish had on them, he moved to join him. [I]Where are the wooden practice swords? [/I] "[B]You and I need to talk, but first, draw your sword.[/B]" He pulled free his own, startling Harrison since it was steel instead of wood. "[B]But...[/B]" Dwalish moved forward with a lazy thrust and Harrison pulled his own standard issue sword free and parried with a clash of steel on steel, something he did without even thinking about it. [I]What is he doing? Why aren't we warming up first? Why are we using steel instead of wood?[/I] "[B]No buts.[/B]" Dwalish's expression was stern as he lazily circled Harrison, ignoring his confused looks as he went from one odd technique to another, clearly toying with him since he had never seen most if not all of the moves he was using. It didn't help that Dwalish was taking advantage of his experience to toss in painful slaps with the flat side of the blade, the last one to his sword hand nearly causing him to drop the blade entirely. [I]What the hell is going on? [/I] He pulled back or rather he tried to since he was getting angry while Dwalish was merely remaining calm. "[B]What kind of lesson is this?[/B]" He finally snapped. "[B]You know damn well I'm not familiar with any of the techniques you've been using![/B]" Dwalish just sighed slightly and then faster than Harrison would have thought possible he disarmed him, striking his wrist with the flat of the blade even harder - before nimbly shifting the sword and then sending Harrison flying with a well placed hit, the hard end from the pommel of the sword connecting painfully when he rammed him in the chest with it. Harrison landed on his back, hard, winded and gasping painfully for air. "[B]Perhaps you can explain to me why you were skipping classes at Chaos?[/B]" Dwalish put his sword away with a single fluid motion. He stood over Harrison who was staring at the ceiling of the room. "[B]What has that got to do with anything?[/B]" He finally answered, startled that he even knew. [I]How did he find out about that? [/I] He tried to get up and winced at the pain from being struck again. [I]How many times am I going to get hit?[/I] "[B]Think about it idiot - the reason I know all that [I]stuff [/I]is because I didn't skip class.[/B]" He finally reached over, taking Harrison's hand and pulling him to his feet. "[B]When you're facing an opponent, they're not going to ask you if you know what technique they are using to kill you. They won't come back another time just because you were too [I]dumb[/I] to attend class.[/B]" Harrison finally nodded, understanding dawning, other than the one of how Dwalish even knew about it to begin with, him cutting classes that is. He went to pick up his sword, putting it back in it's sheath. "[B]I see.[/B]" He finally replied, leaving out how stupid he felt. "[B]Good.[/B]" Dwalish grinned and then slapped him on the back. "[B]I catch you skipping anything here though and you'll get more than a friendly lesson. Now lets go and get some dinner.[/B]" "[B]You call that a friendly lesson?[/B]" Dwalish just laughed at Harrison's dumbfounded expression as the two left the room to head for the mess hall. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][quote name='Premonition;806105][COLOR="1234"]So, this girl will always whine and complain about what I do. I say something she goes "shut up," "get over yourself," (which you NEVER say to me) "whatever," or she'll call me a dumbass or gay. [/COLOR][/QUOTE]Lesson number one. Get out of the mindset that someone can?t ever say something to you. It?s going to happen and sometimes you will actually deserve it. [quote name='Premonition;806105][COLOR="1234"]So I ask, what do I do? I've already tried to give it back to her, hell I've even told her why my gf hates her and what I think of her, but NOTHING WORKS! So I need your help OB.[/COLOR][/QUOTE]Lesson two. Don?t go telling a person that someone else hates them. That?s not going to solve anything and comes across as manipulative. Try talking to her instead of [I]?giving it back? [/I]or telling her[I] ?my girlfriend hates you? [/I]Honestly at that point, if you?re saying that, she has every right to tell you to shut up.[QUOTE=Premonition;806105][COLOR="1234"][B]How do I deal with someone who ******* and complains like her wihtout losing my friend's trust?[/B] [/COLOR][/QUOTE]Lesson three: Ignore it. [QUOTE=Premonition'][COLOR="darkred"']Anyways, this problem is resolved as of now, but keep the help comming, it's well apreciated.[/COLOR][/quote]*is reminded that she's talking to teenagers*[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"][B][I]-Adrian!- [/I][/B]Astera mental voice was terse. [B][I]-I know.- [/I][/B]He shot back. [B][I]-But he?s already figured out that we?re bonded so it?s not like we ignored Gavrie?s advice to tell no one.-[/I][/B] [B][I]-What about the Council?-[/I][/B] He didn?t have an answer for that? Adrian took in a deep breath and then let it out. ?[B]Gavrie warned us not to tell anyone about the life bond.[/B]? He told him. ?[B]Not even the Council.[/B]? Nathan just stared at Adrian, glancing briefly at Astera who was equally as serious as Adrian? Saying nothing to Adrian?s statement. [I]Hunh. [/I] Adrian searched his expression and then shrugged it off, he had already decided before that on some level he trusted Nathan. He couldn?t change the fact that he knew, and he couldn?t stop him from telling someone else either. Nathan was smart enough to know from that statement alone that he would prefer that he tell no one about the bonding. ?[B]As soon as I rest a little more, I intend on returning, to visit Gavrie and to heal up.[/B]? Adrian looked away. ?[B]This place?[/B]? He trailed off. He didn?t have to say it. Nathan would know. The human world was poisoned, forever altered and changed by their destructive nature. Where at home, things possessed a calm and harmony that humans were incapable of producing. It wouldn?t make a huge difference, but it would make his and Astera?s recovery easier. He looked at the shattered doors and the shards of glass on the floor. There would be no danger of additional surprises showing up either. ?[B]Why did no one tell me that Vampires still live?[/B]? It was a rhetorical question, he did not expect an answer and Nathan did not give him one. ?[B]I can see how they simply cloaked their presence but you knew they were still around. You are familiar with Vampires.[/B]? He accused. He looked back at Nathan, still angry at what he felt was a deception on some level. ?[B]I can accept that I was [I]blissfully ignorant [/I]of my faults as you put it, but what I can?t accept is why the hell you said nothing when it was obvious that the rest of us knew nothing about Vampires![/B]? ?[B]Adrian.[/B]? Astera said warningly. ?[B]Yeah, I know.[/B]? He glanced briefly at her and then back at Nathan. Getting angry at this point was counter productive when they needed to figure things out. ?[B]You never asked.[/B]? Nathan said simply. Adrian just looked at him incredulously and then had to resist the urge to laugh, his sides shaking a bit from the suppressed laughter just the same, a half smile played across his face. Still he stifled it, not wanting to trigger another bought of coughing. After all - Nathan had a point. He sighed and settled back down. ?[B]I don?t think I can handle the trip over to the other side yet.[/B]? He looked over at Astera who had settled back down on her own blankets. He grimaced a bit, hesitating to say what he was thinking. [B][I]-I?ll ask him if you want me to Adrian.- [/I][/B]She knew how hard it was for him to ask for help of any kind. It wasn?t that he was above it, but more that he felt like he shouldn?t need it. [B][I]-No. I?ll do it.-[/I][/B] ?[B]I want to rest before I introduce you to Gavrie, but?[/B]? Adrian trailed off, searching for how to put it. ?[B]You still can?t sense anything.[/B]? Nathan finished for him. He nodded, after all, even Nathan's aura was barely discernible and to Adrian?s relief he didn?t seem amused but rather was simply waiting for him to finally get around to saying what he wanted to. It just wasn?t easy to say it. ?[B]Would you stick around?[/B]? He rushed it out, feeling self conscious. ?[B]I don?t remember if there?s anything here you would?[/B]? Nathan just held up his hand and Adrian hushed. ?[B]Rest. We?ll leave when you?re ready.[/B]? Adrian just nodded and after making sure Astera was comfortable, closed his eyes. Even the short time spent talking with Nathan had him worn out. In no time, he was fast asleep.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][quote name='Sandy']I meant he doesn't have friends in-game. Vincent's dead, Macey has other things on her mind, his parents don't want him around, and now the rest of the Almagests drive him away as well. I suppose he could return to Vincent's flat, but I don't think it'll be too long before the RPGs come looking for him there as well.[/QUOTE]It's not so much a matter of friends as it's a matter of the rest of the family not knowing who the hell he is. They don't want to drive him away, it's that they don't even know him. Gadget never spent any time or even really met some of the other family members other than in passing. And with the explosion at the labs, Leonhart missing and Gadget openly admitting he was with the Starks... How could they do anything but find him suspicious? Anyway, follow James' advice, have him find Macey somehow. That seems like the best plan of action if you ask me. [/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]?[B]I had planned on letting you recover a bit more before questioning you,[/B]? Jim?s father said with false concern, ?[B]but it seems you are too impatient to wait.[/B]? He reached over and placed his hand on my forehead, closing his eyes for a minute before he let go. ?[B]It appears you are nearly recovered, but not completely - so I think we will take this slowly.[/B]? It took me a moment to realize he was indicating that the creatures should come and stand by the table, there were three of them, though I could have sworn that only a moment ago there was only two, or was it four? It was like my mind was clouded in some way. ?[B]Now,[/B]? Jim?s father said with a cruel smile. ?[B]You already know what awaits you if you fail to answer so lets start from the beginning, how did you escape being under their control?[/B]? ?[B]I don?t know.[/B]? ?[B]You had better not be lying to me, explain.[/B]? But there wasn?t anything to explain, other than I had arrived late to work that morning and that I was simply driving around with my partner checking into all the bizarre accidents. ?[B]Well,[/B]? Jim?s father said in a speculating tone of voice. ?[B]I suppose you could have been missed since the initial control was set in place before you arrived, but that still doesn?t explain how you are able to see the creatures or how you managed to free Jim from their influence.[/B]? He gave me an expectant look and since I knew he would harm even his own son I answered. ?[B]I don?t know why or how I managed to free Jim.[/B]? His flat stare of anger told me that he did not believe me. ?[B]You?re lying. Not only should it be impossible for you to free someone, but you shook off the drugs, you can see the servants,[/B]? he indicated the creatures with a wave of his hand. ?[B]And you freed Jim from their influence. So I?ll say it again? how did you do it?[/B]? ?[B]It?s the truth, I don?t know.[/B]? But his angry look told me he didn?t believe me and seconds later I was once again hit by the dark lightening that had been used on me before. It was every bit as painful as it had been the first time. Several times he asked me the question and each time I was punished since he did not believe me that I was telling the truth. ?[B]Please,[/B]? I finally begged him, my voice harsh and hoarse from the screaming. ?[B]If I posses some power that lets me see them or to free others? then I am unaware of it.[/B]? I cringed, expecting to be punished again, but to my surprise he merely grunted. ?[B]That is possible, I suppose.[/B]? He looked straight into my eyes, ?[B]We?ll find out if you do posses any power[/B].? He smiled cruelly, ?[B]You might even be useful.[/B]? He snapped his fingers and the skeletal creatures turned to face him. ?[B]Place her in a cell and be sure to use the proper restraints.[/B]? I had no strength to resist once they un-strapped me and started taking me out of the room, pausing when Jim?s father spoke up again. ?[B]Remember, this time, if you do escape - Jim will not be spared the punishment.[/B]? Upon finishing the creatures dragged me out of the room and started down the stairs. I still didn?t know what was going on, nor did I understand why they were so willing to harm their own son. Just the thought that they might have used that horrible dark lightening on him was enough to make me sick. A short while later and they had me before what had to be a cell door, moving to grab what appeared to be some shackles hanging on the wall. [I] What the hell? Since when did anyone use restraints like that? [/I]They looked like something out of medieval times! But nothing could have prepared me for what happened when they were put on; a set on my wrists and a set on my ankles. The moment they were done, it was as if something in them was stealing my strength and I felt dizzy from the effect. Then the door was opened and I was rudely shoved inside, stumbling and falling to the floor. I knew, that so long as the chains were on, stealing my strength, I would be stuck in this horrible place. I managed to turn over and look back at the door, just in time to see it slam shut with a boom that seemed to send me spiraling into darkness? And then? I was lying on my own bed, staring at the ceiling for a long moment before I turned my head to look at the alarm clock to see that it was almost time to get ready for school. There were no restraints on my wrists and ankles, and the room was none other than the one in the apartment where I currently live. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][quote name='Shy'][size=1]Yeah, I'm sorry Sandy, but Gadget is way too suspicious to not have gotten himself into some trouble by now. I don't seriously expect him to be captured or anything (although that would be interesting) but I feel Gadget gave Bavaria more than enough evidence for her to call in the Guard. Should be an interesting dinner for the Almagests. -Shy[/size][/QUOTE]I agree, way to suspicious! He can't possibly think that Lady Bavaria would do nothing after he told her he had been with the Starks no less. She would have no reason whatsoever to simply take his word for it and say nothing. Hehe, and since Rach got out the popcorn, I'll break out the drinks. It's too bad that Harrison is going to miss out on the fun. :p[/COLOR]

Memories If there was one thing Adrian knew more than anything, it was how vulnerable both he and Astera really were. It was why he kept the nature of their relationship a secret, letting others, even fellow Shinigami, think they were nothing more than a normal pair assigned to work together. Even the knowing looks and jokes he had gotten from other Shinigami who knew him from the war, were something he merely took in stride. He didn't give a damn if they thought he had a soft spot for some of the races that were most affected by the humans. So long as it kept them in the dark, he was fine with it. At first he had been confused by his mentor Gavrie?s advise to take a week off, just as he had been equally surprised by his serious expression when he had warned him to tell no one about what had happened. Gavrie was never serious about anything, always light hearted and seemingly laid back. It had been startling enough that he had done as asked, taking a week off in the home of the Shingami while saying nothing to the news that he was merely adjusting to having found a familiar. As the week had gone by, he had slowly began to understand why Gavrie had suggested that they take it. For one thing, the longer they were bonded, the more profound the connection became. It was alarming and unsettling to get use to feeling someone else?s presence inside your own mind. And even more unsettling to realize that on some level you couldn't keep them out, at all, even if it was just a simple feeling of them being there. He had at first resented it, as had Astera, both of them on some level blaming the other - that is until the bond had settled into place well enough for both of them to know the truth of what the other one was thinking. It was hard to blame someone when you knew they weren?t lying about not doing it on purpose. In just a few days, both of them had found that you couldn?t lie mind to mind. It just wasn?t possible since it was far to easy to sense the truth of what the other was thinking. Plus, once the bond resulted in them knowing more about each other than anyone else, it had slowly settled into an acceptance of a situation that neither one of them could change. It quickly became apparent that in many ways they were alike and though it was annoying to admit it, even to themselves, it was clear that as Gavrie had said, they suited one another. The meeting with Gavrie after a week had gone by was something Adrian would never forget. Not only had he taken the time to explain the basics of how to channel a familiar?s abilities, but the dangers of doing so. Adrian had gotten the feeling that he had told him to keep them from finding out on their own and using it without fully understanding the danger involved. It was not something to do lightly since the strain was enough to kill them if they weren't careful. By the time he was finished teaching them everything he knew about bonding, both Adrian and Astera understood better why he had taken the time to tell them, just as why he had told them to keep it to themselves. The biggest drawback to bonding was that so long as a bond was active, if the other one was killed, the backlash of their death through the bond would kill the other one. Instantly. It was something that had been found out the hard way when the ability to form a bond was first discovered. Just as it had also been found that too much distance between a bonded pair, especially a dimensional barrier was enough to cause the bond to snap violently, killing both partners. Simply moving to the Shinigami world and leaving Astera behind would have killed them both, something that they were lucky she had known about. According to Gavrie, it was during the wars between the Shingami and the Vampires that they had learned how dangerous the bonds truly were. After some had been killed when their partner had either been killed or forced through a dimensional rift, resulting in both of them dying, they had searched for a way to dissolve the bonds until one was found, except for a few rare cases like Adrian and Astera. Bonds that had formed on their own could not be broken. According to Gavrie, there weren't a lot of bonded pairs to begin with and after seeing the consequences, they had stopped teaching the new Shinigami how to form one. And then once he had finished teaching him everything he knew, he had sent them both back to the human world. Both Adrian and Astera had gone back from time to time for some additional training, but nothing more than honing his skills for using two scythes instead of one. In time, even that had stopped and life had continued. It had never been an issue, that is not until now? ---------------------Adrian didn't know what had happened, or rather it was safe to say that in his current condition, not only could he not fight, but he couldn?t think clearly either. And what should have been a simple act of summoning his scythe had undone him completely, leaving him even more helpless than he had been before as waves of nausea reminded him that he lacked the strength to do anything. He was no where close to being healed enough for a real fight and in no time at all, that harsh reality was brought home. Even with their hands on him, keeping him in place, he still could not discern that they were vampires. He had been reduced to relying more on vision and sound. The only thing he could still sense clearly was the bond with Astera, and all that told him was that whatever was in the bag with her had sent her back into a full slumber. He was too caught up in sheer panic and terror over being unable to stop them to even realize what was happening when things got chaotic, all he could think about was Astera when he realized that he was no longer being held in place. But he didn't get that far before he was shoved violently into the floor next to the bed. He tried to struggle up to figure out what was going on but his vision threatened to black out on him entirely and he found himself unable to get up off the floor. Adrian could hear the sounds of what had to be a fight, but it made no sense to him whatsoever, at least not until he managed to look sideways from his position on the floor and realize that he was looking at? Nathan? What the? But his order to the other Vampires as he kept one of them pinned in place? Move and die? Seemed real enough. But Adrian couldn't even sense Nathan's aura to determine if he was seeing things or not. But then it didn't matter as he lost it like he had in the mansion after fighting with the Count. Coughing violently as the nausea caught up to him, resulting in more blood coming up. Hell!

[COLOR="Indigo"][quote name='Shy'][size=1]Who are your favorite characters that you have created?[/size][/QUOTE]If we stick only to ones that I created personally, like Allamorph I am rather fond of my own reaper, Adrian and his familiar Astera. He?s one of my more developed characters I?ve thought of, and he is one that I?ve gotten to actually get into what makes him what he is since the rpg didn?t die off. I had a lot more in mind for Vanyel Ashkevron but Esper Jam died off before I could really go anywhere with her. Anyway? I feel the same way about Harrison in Almagest when it comes to being a favorite, I had a very clear image of how I wanted to develop him and I?ve gotten to do it, making him one of my favorites as well since it?s great to actually go somewhere with his personality. I'm looking forward to getting to finish up the current arch and then continuing with him in the sequel that I understand is being planned. [quote name='Shy'][size=1]Who are your favorite characters that [I]someone else[/I] has created? [/size][/QUOTE]This is a toss up really, I have characters in Silver One that were originally created by Beth, namely Jared and Sandra, and though they weren?t originally my own, I really like playing as them, slowly building them into what they are now. Making them one of my favorites as well. When it comes to others? it?s more that there are people I like to see handling a character since they make them fun, like ones that Shy does or Aaryanna and her Mom. I also like working with Gavin and Beth, both of them give their characters a level of feeling as if they are real that I enjoy. And yes Allamorph gets tossed a bone as well since I like his writing style and getting to rpg with him in Shinigami Dance has been very enjoyable. Even if his character Nathan is as odd as he is. :p[quote name='Shy'][size=1]Would you be willing to revisit those characters sometime in the future? Why or why not? Discuss![/size][/QUOTE]Some of my earlier characters I have no desire to do more since I was new at it and they were lacking in so many ways. Vanyel Ashkevron is an exception though, I wouldn?t mind bringing her back, but considering her nature, that would be difficult since it would require the right setting to really bring her out the way I had originally wanted to.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]The thread of panic that had started was growing into a horrible fear, I had to get out of there, but the question was how? I had originally planned on seeing if I could find Jim but now as the four approached, the raspy sound of bone dragging on the ground making me feel nauseated, all I could think of was getting the hell out of that place. I could only think of one thing and that was to force one of them to move like I had in the bathroom of the bedroom I had been in. It never occurred to me as I raised the sword and moved to strike one down, that it would not dodge this time. Before I could pull back it reached up and caught the blade halfway into it?s downward arch. I knew I was in trouble but I did not have time to react as the moment it?s hand closed on the blade, a dark purplish lightening coursed from it?s fingers, down the sword and into my body. Pain slammed into me and I felt myself land hard on my knees as cries of agony escaped my lips. I tried to let go of the sword, but it was if my body was not my own to command, my vision was starting to gray when a voice cut through the screams. ?[B]That?s enough.[/B]? The creature let go, the lightening coming to a halt as the sword finally slipped from my fingers, landing on the floor with a loud clatter. In a daze I looked at the four facing me, wondering who had spoken before I collapsed onto my side, next to the sword, too weak and nauseated to move. At that moment the creatures parted and Jim?s father came forward. He shook his head upon seeing me and sighed. ?[B]We warned you not to do anything foolish. I was right though; you can see them, can?t you?[/B]? I could do nothing more than stare at him, my mind still trying to understand just what had happened. ?[B]Let me put it to you another way, if you answer, I?ll be lenient and Jim won?t be punished for your foolishness this time. So I?ll say it again, you can see them can?t you?[/B]? I tried to speak and found my throat was too abused from the screaming so I simply nodded my head to indicate that I could. ?[B]Excellent, now bring her, but be careful, I still need her alive.[/B]? I could not resist when the creatures moved to pick me up, I could only recoil within my mind at the disgust I felt when they touched me. It was if I weighed nothing as one placed my right arm over it?s shoulders and another my left. To my surprise my shoulder did not start bleeding again, but that thought was lost as I tried to pay attention to where they were taking me. They followed Jim?s father as he took me down several flights of stairs, my feet dragging on the floor as I couldn?t seem to get my body to cooperate and move. Before long they finally came to a room with a table in the center that uncomfortably reminded me of a medieval ritual chamber, a thought that was further reinforced by the creatures placing me on the table on my back. The feeling of fear I had been feeling became even more profound as they forced my arms above my head and fastened them down, moving to do the same to my feet as well. [I]This has got to be some sort of sick nightmare, [/I]I thought in a panic as the skeletal creatures moved to stand guard by the door leading into the room as Jim?s father came over and stood next to the table I was strapped to. But no matter how hard I tried to shake it? I couldn?t wake up![/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]Security was understandably tight in sector one when the fleet finally arrived. Even with it being clear that it was the [I]Conqueror[/I] and the [I]Creator[/I] they were still challenged many times, something that both Sandra and Stevens calmly answered as they issued the necessary clearance codes. Then when they were finally in orbit and progress was underway for the repairs to both ships, Jared took that moment to run the portraits that Kerstin had finished through the main databases. He could have been working on helping with the troop replacements but instead he had handed that task solely over to Sub-Commander Drace. For now, Stevens felt it was more important that they track down who had been in those meetings and when one of them came back with a positive match, he had to agree. Of all people, he would have never expected them to have been there. It certainly helped to explain some things, including part of how the New Alliance was getting their hands on so much information that they shouldn?t have. Just as it also indicated how much they really needed to clean house so to speak, to root out all of the would be traitors. Jared had always known about the dishonesty present in the government, but even he was finding himself a bit surprised at the depth or rather level of corruption in both directions. He had no illusions, if they didn?t trim out the excess on both sides, no matter how well they fought to reclaim the sectors, the Versilan Empire would in time, tear itself apart from the inside out. It also explained Erica?s cryptic comment to Stevens about Commodore Nazar, who had survived the destruction of the [I]Intrepid.[/I] At least a little that is since if any of what he was checking into made sense, it explained part of how the [I]Intrepid[/I] had managed to fall for such an obvious trap in the first place. It spoke of treason on Nazar?s part at the highest level, allowing a flagship to be destroyed just to cover his own treachery. Jared frowned a bit at the implications of one of Commodore Nazar?s personal aides being at a top meeting for the New Alliance. [I]Just what is that fool up to? [/I]He sent an inquiry out and it came back, indicating that the aide in question, a David Barak, was suppose to be on the main home world here in sector one. Jared toyed with the idea of sending a security squad to pick him up and changed his mind. If information was leaking from the fleet, it was possible that such an order would be picked up and the spy would warn him. Jared stood up and handed command of the bridge over to the officer just below Drace. He would pick the man up himself. ?[b]Continue overseeing the repairs and troop replacements.[/b]? He ordered even as he pulled up the information as to where David Barak was located, not bothering to explain why he was heading planet side. The officer didn't need to know anyway. ?[b]Understood sir.[/b]? Jared left the bridge to head for the closest transport room, pausing only long enough to ensure that his disruptor was fully charged and ready. Setting it to the highest stun setting to ensure that no mistakes were made. After all, he didn?t want him to get away and since Commander Chevast had been such a disappointment when it came to interrogations, he didn?t want to miss out on the chance to see if this David Barak would be any better. But as the transport technician opened a door to the location he specified, he doubted that Barak would be any better, traitors rarely were. They were often too willing to fold just to avoid unnecessary pain, eager to turn in information and sell someone else out just to save their own neck. As he stepped through the door, he couldn?t help but wonder what it would be like if they finally managed to capture Daniel Landers or even Kiva Salqarian, those two he had a feeling would not disappoint him by being cowards. He put it out of mind as the door closed behind him and he started heading for where Barak was suppose to be located.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Harrison didn't know what to expect when it came to training, but it didn’t take long for him to clue in on just what was expected. It was similar to what he had read about for the Royal Police Guard training though clearly much more strict. As he listened to the instructor, a Sergeant Garett, on some level he began to wonder just what in the world his father had gotten him into. It was to be frank a little startling as to the attitude he was expected to adapt to. In the military, the understanding was that you would work the hours you are told to work, you would work overtime when told and that you would do the tasks assigned, even if they didn't relate to your job. Just as you were expected to live where you are told to live and deploy when and where you are told to deploy. He was surprised when Sergeant Garett got to the end of that bit of the opening speech, since it seemed that Harrison was not the only new recruit there, and moved to finish with a stern lecture that if one was not willing to make those kind of sacrifices, then they needed to do both themselves and the Dynast government a big favor and go home. Naturally Harrison said nothing, even though some of the recruits were snickering a bit in his direction since it was clear that he was too young since he was one of the smallest men there. In the end, it was something that as they stood there lined up, facing the Sergeant, he ignored. He wasn’t about to leave, at least not without seeing what it was like first. The rest of the morning was unlike anything he had ever expected, the training was demanding, far more than anything Harrison had ever done, a combination of both physical and mental work. Everything seemed to be designed to test the limits of what one could do while simultaneously drilling into you the fundamentals of military rules, polices, etiquette and customs that pertained to your particular area of military service. And Sergeant Garett had no trouble whatsoever pushing you to the point that at times Harrison wondered that no one outright slugged him. But since the others merely took it in without complaint he did the same, until finally, after what seemed like an eternity they were done and it was time to go and get some lunch before reporting to one’s next assignment. Which in his case, did not include more training, but rather reporting to Colonel Dwalish. Harrison was too tired to realize that a couple of the other recruits who had been around longer where edging closer until one of them spoke up. “[B]And here I thought I’d seen everything Jake, what good is a little runt like that going to be?[/B]” Startled Harrison turned to see that three of them were closing in on him, leaving him no where to go. He didn’t know why but he stood his ground, even though all of them were larger than he was. “[B]What’s the matter runt? Got nothing to say?[/B]” One of them jeered at him and then continued when Harrison didn’t respond. “[B]So how’d you manage to end up with a commission? You get that by begging someone?[/B]” The other two laughed at the joke while Harrison turned a little red. “[B]So who’s butt did you kiss boy?[/B]” The one called Jake said nastily as they closed in on him, without thinking Harrison took a tiny step backwards, looking to see if there was a way to simply leave without creating a fuss. But they seemed to anticipate that and the three spread out a tiny bit, closing that option off. [I]Great. [/I]Harrison thought. [I]Now what do I do?[/I] Somehow he got the impression that arguing or fighting back would not go over very well. “[B]So who are you anyway? What’s your name runt?[/B]” “[B]Harrison.[/B]” He replied shortly. “[B]And?[/B]” The one in the middle prompted, “[B]You do have a last name don’t you runt?[/B]” Harrison sighed inwardly and responded since they were going to find out anyway. “[B]Harrison Almagest.[/B]” He flushed when the group laughed at him even more. “[B]Well that explains how a little runt like you got let in. Why you can’t even be sixteen![/B]” He mock sighed dramatically, placing his hand on his forehead. “[B]What’s the world coming to when they start handing out commissions to under aged runts with family influence.[/B]” The other two snickered and then stopped when the obvious leader of the gang moved in closer. “[B]So just which one of those rich idiots are you related to? You know, so we can send the fool a message telling them how stupid they are.[/B]” The three were so focused on Harrison that they didn’t notice that their training instructor Sergeant Garett had approached from behind, and all three jumped when he answered their question. “[B]That idiot,[/B]” He said with scorn for the three who whirled and immediately came to attention upon seeing who had spoken, “[B]would be Colonel Almagest and Air-General Almagest of the [I]Sentinel.[/I][/B]” The three paled, though Harrison could not see their expressions. “[B]I’m sure both of them would be pleased to hear how the three of you think they are idiots.[/B]” “[B]No sir![/B]” The one in the middle squeaked out. “[B]We were only…[/B]” “[B]Yes I know.[/B]” Sergeant Garett motioned with his head, “[B]Get going before I discipline all of you for disrespect towards your superior officers.[/B]” The three couldn’t get out of the room fast enough, taking off without even glancing back at Harrison, who was still standing at attention, waiting for Sergeant Garett to speak since he was uncertain as to what he should do next. For the longest moment the two just stared at one another until Garett finally spoke. “[B]Get going recruit, or you’ll run out of time for lunch and we can’t have you collapsing on us.[/B]” “[B]Yes sir.[/B]” Harrison responded before he too took off for the mess hall. Even if the food was a bit less than ideal, he didn’t fancy the idea of running errands for Dwalish on an empty stomach. He just hoped the three who had pestered him would leave him alone. Though he got the feeling that it wouldn’t be the first time. If not those three, then someone else. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[COLOR="Indigo"]"One should forgive one's enemies, but not before they are hanged... oops?" Or... "You're next" Seriously though... I have nothing in mind. :p[/COLOR]