RPG Chimera [M-LV, possible S]

[Rhym]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkSlateGray]OOC: Aw, screw it! No time like the present! Time to get this boulder rolling...

IC:

Freya waited in the dark alleyway in the slums of Neo Avalon. It was a gloomy night, but made unnaturally bright by the brilliant lights of the city reflecting back down from the oppressive and permanent layer of smog.

It was exactly five years since her escape.

To the casual eye, she appeared to be sleeping. In reality, her every sense strained itself to catch even a hint of an arrival. Once she did, however, it was obvious.

A loud series of intermitant thumps met her ears, growing closer. The source made itself apparent when a large figure dropped down into the alley. She stood in greeting.

"Oran. Good to see you've made it back," she said.

The lupine Chimera grinned a toothy grin. "Good to see you're safe, Freya."

Her eyes flashed in eagerness. "Have you found anything new about the others?"

"I'm afraid not. To the best of my information, the tigers, Kyusa and Kieter, haven't been separated, but we still don't have a location. Likewise, nobody seems to know where Ralkan, the grizzly, is."

"What about your pack, Oran? Have you come any closer to locating them?"

He averted his imposing gaze and growled. "No. I know Ophelia escaped, but... I pray that she's still alive, wherever she is. As for the other two... all signs imply that they never escaped." Oran growled again and struck the wall of the alley in anger.

"Don't worry, Oran," Freya said, trying to comfort him. "As soon as we get the proper forces, we'll storm Oroboros Corp and rescue your brother and sister."

He seemed to calm. "Proper forces, you say. How are we going to do that?"

Freya smiled slyly. "Don't worry about that. I've set up a meeting with someone who I think can help."

They stepped out of the alleyway.

[ALIGN=Center][b]????????[/b][/ALIGN]
Freya took quick stock of her surroundings as the two Chimeras entered the tavern. It seemed entirely deserted, save for the bartender and one man in a corner booth. He looked up from his drink and waved them over.

"How are the drinks here?" asked Freya.

The man known as Corsair grinned ruefully. "Terrible. Have a seat."[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Asim]

He looked deep into the swaying red roses, as he twirled one between his fingers. [I]The nightmares are finally starting to decrease maybe it's because of her?[/I] He extended his sight, farther away into his beloved gardens. She sat on an oak bench under a blossoming cherry tree with a rose much like his in her hands; watching the winter cranes in the lucid lake. She truly was a magnificent sight to behold. He smiled. She was a new mistress of his, but he liked her more than he ever did any other; there was something strange about her. [I]They started when the chimeras escaped a few years back could there be a connection? [/I] He took a delightful sniff from the rose, gently kissed it, and then softly tossed it into the stream that ran beneath the arched bridge he stood on.

[I]This brat that calls himself our future leader, I didn't like the way he looked at her at the party the other night.[/I] He walked through the corridors of his mansion. Hearing swift steps and abrupt breathing he quickly loosened his blade in its scabbard, but did not draw it. A wiry man, in a very elegant outfit came jogging from behind the corner.

"Your lordship?his highness Jinn No Dante has just sent word that he urgently requests your presence?" The man panted. It was Asim's chief servant.

"Very well, Geigzer thank you?you are excused" He said, and the wiry man bowed, and then turned away.

All who served the house of the Crane did not call Jinn by his self proclaimed title, by orders of Asim. The house was one of the most known, ancient, and purest of all the Neoristocrat houses. They were revered by the others, and that is exactly why Asim sensed that Jinn had something up his sleeve for him.

[I]Damn it! I could've killed him, I'm getting careless I should be more aware.[/I]

After some time, Asim arrived at the presedential palace. There he first met Csir Abriel Valentine; Jinn's most trusted advisor. Asim did not like him at all. He just nodded, and went right past him without speaking a word. In fact Asim didn't like the way things were going ever since Xavier appointed Jinn as public representative. Things on the surface went smoothly, but Asim could feel that something eerily wrong was going on; things were just too good to be true. However Xavier was respected by Asim and his loyalty to him was solid enough.

[DeathKnight]

[color=crimson]Corsair glanced to the bartender and nodded to him. The bartender gave a brief nod back before quietly heading to a rear room, giving them adequate privacy for their meeting. Corsair stroked his beard idly before finally speaking, "We've done some business a few times prior to this, Freya.. but I don't think I've ever met your friend. Hello there," He nodded to the lupine Chimera, "I am Corsair. Pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"I'm Oran." The lupine replied and nodded back, "It's nice to meet you."

"Well, Oran.. I'd buy you a drink, but," Corsair glanced down to his drink and arched an eyebrow, "Uh, I'm not too sure you'd live to tell the tale. How about a cigar for you guys instead?" He reached underneath his cloak and pulled out a pair of cigars.

"I'm not much of a smoker but," Freya looked at the cigars, "These are a rare sight around here. I always wondered how you got them." She eyed him with curiosity.

"You wouldn't believe what shady assholes I have to chat with just to get a smoke." Corsair said with a wry grin, "Well, if you decide you want one just tell me. I don't mind sharing them with my friends." He slid them back into a pocket in his cloak and nodded to Freya, "So, let's get down to business. From our prior conversation I understand that you need my assistance?"[/color]

[0ber0n the Neko]

5 years after the breakout...

Kieter awoke with a start, dripping with cold sweat.

He was dreaming again. It was her...

He sat up in his cot, and looked out the window. [i]The moon must shine rather brightly, once one got above the Smog,[/i] he thought.

"If only I could remember her name... some clues... anything. All I know is she's alive, and I can't stop dreaming about her!" He growled softly. "This so infuriating..."

He swung his legs out of the sheets, and they softly met the floor. He stood, bare chested, looking out the window. He smiled. "Nothing like a spot of practice to keep the mind alert, eh?"

He carefully opened the window, taking pains not to make any noise as he did so. He stood in the windowframe, looking down at the world below.

He leaped.

His feet met the familiar telecom wire, and he immediately ran. His speed and balance were perfect, as always. He reached the adjacent rooftop, and then latched onto a thick line of cables that had been encased in titanium. He slid down the side of the huge building for a time, then jumped off the building, and out toward the street. He landed on top of the bus that was just stopping, and then sat.

"Perfect timing," he said, as the bus roused itself to make the nightly rounds.

The wind felt good in his hair, and against his skin. He smiled as he saw the familiar sites of the city, decaying and decrpeit as they were. This was home.

Then he saw a chimera girl. It was unusual that she should catch his attention, but she did. Kieter saw his chance, and threw himself into an alleyway. He would see what she was up to.

The girl had scales, and appeared to be walking with a large, lupine chimera. He continued watching.

[i]I've seen her before... But where?[/i]

He tried to listen to their conversation, but only caught one word.

"...Freya..."

He didn't know what to think. It was the first name and person he could recall since the breakout. So he waited, following them stealthily to a tavern. He watched as they entered, and saw, through a window, Freya sitting next to a man hidden by the collar of his coat.

Kieter weighed his chances, calmly assessed the situation, and, after watching them talk for a time, stepped through the doors of the tavern, and sat at the far end.

He would wait as long as he needed to.

[Claire]

[FONT=Arial]Ophelia seemed to just materialize by the tavern's front door, dressed oddly casually for a the dark atmosphere: a soft brown shirt with sleeves that reached her elbows, a knit green shrug around her shoulders, light fitted jeans, and scuffed checkered converse. She sighed, her lipstick red lips shut tight, and scanned her lupine eyes around the room. She was too young a chimera to know the extreme difference between that and human - she didn't even know who to trust.

She noticed the two at the bar and instantly recognized them from the lab. Their names slipped her, but they were definitely familiar. Regardless of this, she was uneasy about approaching them.

[I]Maybe I should just wait a while[/I], she thought, and took a seat by the window to stare out at the bright crescent moon. Boredly, she produced a pair of black earphones from her pocket and plugged them in, fingering a button on the next generation media player that only came out a month before the lab incident, and drifting away into a pleasance that only her music could bring her now.

"Welcome...would you like something to drink?"

She paused the media player, right in the middle of one of her most favorite songs, and glanced at the voice. It was a pudgy, middle-aged man with large glasses and a too-tight apron, who obviously didn't notice anything strange about her. She knew that he would if she opened her mouth, and she merely shook her head, careful not to reveal her ears from behind her golden hair.

"Nothing? No water?" he asked again. She hated when waiters were persistant like this. She only shook her head, and replayed her media player. She didn't care that she came off as rude, she only cared that she got away with it. She glanced at the chimeras at the bar, wondering if they would pay any attention to her... [/FONT]

[Rhym]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkSlateGray]Freya pocketed the cigar, and Oran did likewise. Corsair lit his and the aromatic smoke soon wafted to all corners of the bar.

"So," he said, "Let's get down to business. From our prior conversation I understand that you need my assistance?"

Freya nodded. "Yes. You are more than aware of Neo Avalon's condition. The Neoristocrats lord it over both your people and mine. And with this new leader of theirs, this Jinn no Dante, I can only imagine the oppresion getting worse. The rumors you hear..."

Corsair nodded in agreement. "That he killed his own father to gain power? I wouldn't doubt it for a second. It's just like a Neoristocrat. But what does this have to do with me, Freya?"

"I feel it's time for a change. I'm not alone in feeling this. I feel a change of power is in order."

Corsair's eyebrows raised conspiratorily. "Such talk is highly dangerous."

"That it may be, but it needs to be said. All I ask for is the support. For too long the Mob has been just that, a mob, a disorganised rabble trying to fight a system geared entirely towards keeping them down. But just imagine if someone could organise them. Together, we just might be able to form the wrench to throw into the gears of the system."

She was about to go on when the door to the bar opened. A man walked quietly in and sat at the booth in the far corner. Freya was about to dismiss him when she saw Oran.

"Freya," he said, under his breath. "That man that just walked in. He's a Chimera. One of ours, I think."

Freya tried to look calm, but she couldn't help her eyes widening. [i]Could it be? Which one is he?[/i] Her inner monologue was interrupted as once more the door opened. A girl walked in and sat at the counter. The bartender asked if he could help her, but she just shook her head in reply. Once more Oran caught her eye. He looked frantic.

"And her," he said urgently. "Freya, that's Ophelia. I'd know her scent anywhere."

Corsair stood suddenly, so Freya and Oran stood too. "Well, of all the luck," the grizzled man said to them. "Freya, I'll see what I can do. I'll get the word out, maybe I can whip up some support. Hell, maybe even some weapons."

Freya breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks, Corsiar. This means a lot to me. I want my revenge on those snobby bastards, sitting pretty in their skyscraper penthouses. But one more thing."

Corsair turned back to her. "Yes?"

"See if you can get the word out that... I don't know exactly how to put this. We need some kind of safehouse, some location that those of us that escaped from Oroboros can meet safely and get back together. Find a place like that, and get the word out."

Corsair grinned wryly. "I'll see what I can do." With that, he walked out of the bar.

Freya turned to Oran. "Go. Talk to her. I'll see if what you said about the other Chimera is true, but Ophelia... I'll leave her to you."[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Disenchanted]

Oran held Freya's gaze and turned to nod goodbye to the man named Corsiar. He walked over to the bar at sat next to the Chimera he knew to be one of his pack.
Ophelia, it had been so long since he had shared a relationship with her as an "older brother". Oran felt responsible for anything occuring to the members of his pack after he escaped. For 5 long years he regreted not making a group effort to escape the facility.

Sitting down next to the girl he orded a water with plenty of ice, tapping her on the shouder oran motioned for Ophelia to take her head phones off. She took the headphone out of the ear closest to him and left the other one in. Oran was extremly nervious about the situation, at the worst possible moments he could lose the ability to properly speek which had lead people to belive that he was simple minded.

[COLOR=RoyalBlue]"Do you remember me ?"[/COLOR] Ophelia nodded. He want quite sure what to do he felt he must appolagise for alot of things but couldn't do it now. The music coming fron her hanging headphone was just audable.

Oran wasn't sure what to do or say to the Chimera, he sat silent and looked at her. He had waited 5 years to finally meet with one of his kind and things werent going so well to begin with. He hoped that she would say something.

[Asim]

Sitting in the waiting lounge for quite some time now; Asim grew weary, and tired of Jinn's disrespectful behaviour. [I]This is getting too much, to hell with this meeting[/I]

He headed towards the door, the secretary tried to talk to him, but he gave no heed. On the way out of the palace he met one of his friends; a spy that worked undercover amongst the mob.

"It's been a long time your Lordship" The man slightly bowed.

"Raise your head friend, we've known each other for far too long for these formalities..."

"But tell me...what brings you to this rotting hole at this time?"

"You know that such information is to be displayed in front of certain others before being shared in the circles of the pure blood"

"Yes that's the way it should be done...But since the house of the Crane has the exhaulted honor of protecting the leaders of our clans...and since there is an unpredictable maniac in wait for leadership...I think I deserve to be intensely involved with the outgoing of things even if it means breaking a few procedures"

"You should not speak in such a manner..."The man spoke in a low tone, as he took Asim aside.

"You could be executed for uttering such things, be careful for Jinn has eyes and ears everywhere..."

"Why should I care? I serve his father not him"

"Yes, but sooner or later you will be under his wing of command, it's only a matter of time old friend"

[I]Maybe sooner than you think...[/I]A voice echoed in Asim's head; his sword was speaking to him.

"I will worry about that when it happens, now tell me what do you have to inform"

"It is reckless of you, but do as you wish...anyway I've strong leads that point to a union of Chimeras, and the Mob...there is a slight possibilty of an upcoming revolution...sources say that their heads are meeting as we speak in the large tavern down at the old city...you know the one...but my informers didn't dare to go there...For if they're found out, then well...you know how it goes, just a lot uglier than usual"

"You blundering idiot why not send in a platoon of elites to exterminate them?" Asim muttered.

"That cannot be done, because of the recent peace treaty we cannot take such a course of action, or total war will break out"

"Ah you stupid bastards, I'll handle this mysellf" Asim said, as he stormed out.

[I]This will not be allowed...not while I'm around...[/I]

He stood silent as the dusty winds blew; cloaked in a large black hooded robe that fluttered profusely. He decided to learn as much as he could before giving them a little scare, and shaking things up.

[I]This should be amusing[/I]

He grinned from beneath the shadows that covered his face, as he entered the tavern.

[TheRebel_Nikolas]

Nikolas walked through the empty streets of Neo Avalon, looking for something. He passed by the tavern that he stopped at occasionally. The drinks weren't that great, but alcohol is alcohol. He turned down a side alley and walked to the end. Turning to look behind him he bent down and lifted a manhole cover. He slipped through and replaced the cover without a sound.

He walked a couple hundred yards through the darkness before turning off on a side path. There were many more turns before the tunnel seemingly came to a dead end. He removed a small stone slab from the right wll, revaealing a small keypad. Once the access code was punched in he replaced the slab to its original place. It was then that a loud grinding began as a solid stone doorway opened. On the other side he punched another code in and the door closed.

He flipped a switch on the wall by the keypad. Bright flourescent light flodded trhe large cavern. The light showed that more rooms branched off of this one. On the far wall were many monitors, each one showing a series of four paths of the sewer system that he lived in. He silently moved across the cavern tothe monitors. He checked the video recordings to see if there had been any trespassers. Even if there had been any, the security system would have taken care of them for him. Feeling nothing out of the ordinary, he grabbed a book from one of the shelves and sat down to read.

[Andrew]

[B][I]Meanwhile...[/I][/B]

Sitting in what most would consider the sleaziest joint in the whole damn town, Armstrong sat at a corner table with his feet held high on the table. He lay back, eyes closed and arms behind his head, apparently relaxing. Sitting next to him, head resting on his chest, was a beautiful Red-haired woman dressed with only a skimpy red bikini to hold her ample assets in place. She was humming some tune quietly as if lulling him to sleep.

Suddenly, a vibrating sensation flew through his body and a harsh ringing sound jolted him from his reverie. The Red-head was also suitably startled to jump and almost throw herself from her bikini. He winked at her and motioned to her top as he pulled out his phone and held it to his ear.

“Hey, what’s up chief?” He asked the man on the other end as the Red-head re-adjusted herself.

“Hey, Major, long time no see. I think you’d be interested to know I’ve got a couple of people down at the bar here tonight who are interested in safe house.” Replied the bartender, Chuck.

“Safe houses? They got any money then chief?” He asked disinterestedly, his gaze roving the Red-heads curvaceous body.

“I don’t think you understand Major. These ‘people’ are looking for ‘your’ type of safe house” Replied Chuck, and if Armstrong could see him, he was sure the man would be winking as he said certain words.

“You need not another word chief, I follow you completely. I’ll be down in a few minutes, if they look like their gonna leave, stop them. See you in a few.” He said before exiting the call and stowing his phone away.

“Aww come on Army! We haven’t even spent ten minutes together tonight!” Complained the Red-head cutely.

“Sorry baby, business calls, I’ll be back to see you as soon as I can, or better yet, you should come down to my place once you get off tonight.” He quickly spoke with a wink and ran for the door.

“Major...Yeah! Major pain in my ass!” She said somewhat angrily before another voice called her.

“Amy! Now that he’s gone, get back to work!” Boomed a disgruntled male voice.

“Yes sir...”

---

Just as the posse of Chimera’s were about to leave Chuck’s bar, Major Armstrong sauntered in and stood proudly and arrogantly in front of them. Led by Freya, who didn’t miss a beat, the Chimera’s stopped and looked at him curiously.

“So...I hear y’all are longer for a safe house?”

[Rhym]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkSlateGray]Freya was talking with Kieter in his booth and Oran with Ophelia at the counter when the man entered the tavern.

?So," the man began. "I hear y?all are lookin' for a safe house??

The bartender looked up. "Heya, Major! Long time no see!"

"Hey, Chuck," Major replied, grinning widely. "So, who's the one asking?"

Freya nodded to him. Under her breath, she said to Kieter: "I'd love to sit and reminisce some more, but business calls."

Kieter smiled and leaned back. "I understand."

She stood from her seat. "That would be me. They call me Freya." She shook his offered hand. "Word sure gets around fast in this city."

"That it does," he grinned. "Call me Major, Freya. I've got a system of safehouses all over Neo Avalon. Normally I'd charge ya for the use of 'em, but... Let's just say we share something in common."

"I'm fully prepared to pay for any expenses," she said.

"Oh, no no no. That's alright, missy. Free of charge for you and your kin." By this time they had moved to a booth.

"Thank you. That's very kind."

They stopped talking momentarily when another man entered the tavern. He had covered up himself with a cloak, but Freya could see the sword strapped at his side. He sat at the counter, a good distance from where Oran and Ophelia sat. Chuck, the barman, eyed him nervously, but approached him to ask for his order. When he was done, Major asked him something.

"Hey Chuck," he said. "How's the wife?"

Chuck shook his head sadly. "It's lookin' a bit rocky, Major."

Major's eyes widened. In a hushed tone, he spoke to Freya. "Don't look now, missy, but that man that just came in? Chuck says he's trouble. Don't rightly know who he is, but things might get a bit messy very soon."[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Claire]

[FONT=Arial]Ophelia heard her stomach gurgle out of uneasiness. She did remember the chimera; she remembered all the chimeras, just not their names. She didn't want to talk, or actually be in the presence of any other being, human nor chimera. She just wanted to go home and study for that pre-calculus test she would've taken the next day, five years ago. But she would never be able to go home again.

"It was terrible," she said to herself, suddenly unaware of the other chimera at the table. She realized that he was still there, and sighed. "Sorry - I kind of get zoned out easily." Her eyes became shaded by her hair, and she lifted a black clawed hand to brush it away.

"Do you need to talk about it?" the other chimera said, a mix of intrique and concern flooding his face.

She shook her head no, glancing up at the moon.[/FONT]

[Asim]

Silence reigned in the tavern. He knew it was because of him. [I]Interesting...they're tense enough...Maybe its time to test their steel...[/I]

As he took a sip of the cheap wine he was served, he looked into the eyes of the nervous bar tender.

[I]This guy doesn't look like he's from around here...is that a sword he's carrying?[/I] The Katana's voice echoed in his mind.

"Hey Chuck," Major said. "How's the wife?"

Chuck shook his head sadly. "It's lookin' a bit rocky, Major."

[I]Such a cheap trick...I don't think they'll be talking anymore now that I'm spotted[/I] He smiled.

He silently unholstered his gun underneath the cloak, and pulled the cock back. He would strike in a few moments. He cracked his knuckles by clenching his fist, and took a deep breath.

He whirled out of his seat; flinging his cloak in the air. The golden glyph on his cape gleamed under the dim lights. The gun revolved around his trigger finger, and then stopped with the muzzle gawking at Freya and her companion. The breath was let out.

A sharp hiss was heard as the shot was fired; trailing a blurry streak in the air. Freya had expected the attack, and jumped aside; dragging Major with her out of harm's way. The blazing pellet smashed the booth into tiny splinters, and continued its destructive course through the wall; bringing it down. He had not intended to kill his foes with the shot, but just toy with them. The gun revolved once more, and was then placed back in the holster.

His left hand firmly clenched the hilt of the sword. One the Chimeras at the bar dashed at him. A glittering arc flashed for less than a second, and was followed with a splatter of blood. The blade was now back in its scabbard.

A long cut was etched across the wolf Chimera's chest, and shoulders. The half beast retreated a few steps back; shielding the female with his body. It wasn't too deep, or crippling a cut, but it would make his attacker think twice before trying to charge him again.

"Know that it could have been your head..." He said calmly.

The chimera clenched his chest, and grinned angrily.

"Is it bad Oran?" The one called Freya asked.

'It's nothing" The Chimera answered.

Asim's eyes then turned to Freya. She seemed somewhat familiar, but he did not know why.

"Come on let's see if you fools can match the Dreaming Crane" He chuckled, and drew his blade.

[I]She will destroy you...[/I] The blade whispered, and with it singed a flash back from one of his nightmares.

"So you are the dragon in my dreams..." He muttered; his dark eyes burning with twisted curiousity.

[DeathKnight]

[color=crimson]Corsair's cybernetic eye whirred as it switched back to normal mode. He sat just a short distance away from the bar, wrapped in his black cloak with his face hidden by the hood. He reached beneath his cloak and into an interior pocket, retrieving his small communicator. He flipped it open and punched in few numbers. He waited as it connected through the extremely unreliable and chaotic network that the members of the Mob were forced to bear with. Finally, the connection was established.

"Yeah?" A woman's voice answered within a few moments.

"It's Corsair."

"Well, no shit it's you. You're the only person who has the balls to call at these ungodly hours." Her irritation was obvious from the tone of her voice.

"Sorry about that Alina, but.. well, I've got a situation here that changes things." A shot rang out from the tavern that caused Corsair to shake his head- time was of the essence. "A Neoristocrat is stirring up some trouble with some acquaintances of mine at my favorite tavern. Just quickly spread the word. Some of the bigger organizations will care since they just signed that bullshit cease-fire with the Neoristocracy. "

"You got it. You need any backup?"

"No. I believe my acquaintances can handle themselves fine. The Dreaming Crane is a good warm up for them." Corsair smiled a bit as he said that. "I'll just keep an eye on things. I don't really care to fight that bastard. Always ends up being a tiring affair."

"Hah, The Dreaming Cane, eh? I hope you didn't like your acquaintances that much. I'll get the word out about the violation of the cease-fire. Stay safe, boss." Alina promptly hung up and Corsair was left in silence.

He picked up his light machinegun and approached the tavern, stopping just outside the door. It had become quiet, like the calm before the storm- or was the fight already over? Finally he heard a male voice mutter something- the only word he could pick up from outside the door was 'dreams'.

"[i]Oh well. I'll just wait here.. I think Freya and company can handle themselves. They need to see that the path they are taking is a very difficult one.[/i]" He thought to himself. "[i]If things start to go wrong..[/i]"

The door in front of him was sliced to pieces in an instant and there stood the very man he had been trying to avoid.

"Well," One of Corsair's eyebrows shot up as he spoke, "That plan died pretty quickly."

"I hope you weren't thinking of attacking me from behind, hm?" Asim said, eyeing Corsair all the while.[/color]

[Rhym]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkSlateGray]The Neoristocrat suddenly turned from Freya and sliced the front door to pieces. She was shocked to see Corsair standing just outside.

"Well," he said. "That plan died pretty quickly."

"I hope you weren't thinking of attacking me from behind, hm?" said the man called the Dreaming Crane. He froze when he heard the chamber click into place.

"Maybe not him," said Freya. "But I have no qualms about honor. I think you'll find that this disruptor rifle in my hands proves this."

Oran growled, holding a towel to the slash on his chest. "Kill him quickly and get it over with, Freya."

"I'd love to, Oran, but I can't. Think of what the death of a Neoristocrat would do. Remember the bogus cease-fire? A death could give them all the excuse they need to claim that the Mob started it first. Police presence here is bad enough already. No, I can't do that to these people."

"I'm glad you understand my predicament, Freya," said Corsair.

Asim drew his breath sharply. "Fools! Do you not think?"

Freya swiftly brought the gun to bear on him. "Not. Another. Move. Drop your sword. Slide it over to me. Slowly." He complied, recalcitrantly. "Kieter, get some rope from Chuck. Oran, pick up the sword."

Kieter tied the Neoristocrat snugly to a barstool. Oran buried the sword blade-up into the top of the wall behind the bar. Asim spat at Freya. "You think you can get away with your foolish little revolution. Idiot! You'll never succeed! I will see you dead some day!"

Freya knocked him out with a blow to the head from the rifle butt. "What an annoying man," she muttered. "Let's get out of here. Major, where's that safehouse?"[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Asim]

The scorching pain in his heart wept like a helpless child. The brutal weight of defeat set in on his shoulders. Dazed, and nauseous; he could barely tell shadow from light.

[I]Not yet?I will not be defeated not yet![/I]

Veins knotted on his temples, and neck. The rope snapped against the shear fury of his bulging muscles. Clenched teeth parted to make way for a mighty bellow that echoed manically. Blood trickled down into his eyes. He rose, nay he glided to his feet; it was almost as if he walked on air.

The soul consuming darkness of his eyes searched for the blade; his inseparable friend, and companion. [I]There you are?[/I]A dark grin was drawn upon his face.


Trembling fingers ached, as they groped at what they desired; the bane. [I]I told you young master?you did not listen?[/I]

"That is no dragon, but only a cowardly lizard?" He smugly muttered, as he stared at his glorious weapon.

[I]Her flames will consume you?[/I]

"Not before I sheath you in her scaly flesh"

[I]That maybe so?I am honored by your undivided trust?you may yet escape the blazing agonies I predict?[/I]

A shifting sound caught the attention of his keen ears; it was the old bartender; Chuck. He heard the shout, and came as fast as he could. Freya had told him to keep Asim restrained. He went away to arrange a cell in the storage room.

"And what do we have here, a lowly patriotic dreamer?" Asim chuckled.

The bartender had an old double barreled shotgun in his hand, and was taking aim, as he came running

He hung his head low, and placed his left hand on the hilt of sword.

"Sorry old man" He whispered.

The blade was jolted out of the scabbard. Slicing through the air; it shrieked a horrible song. Blood sprouted out of the man's mouth as the blade was thrust in his belly. He fired a couple of shots, but in vain for the pain was too great for him to concentrate. The dreaming crane moved in with a slow and sure stride.

Chuck was hopelessly trying to load the shotgun, before Asim could reach him. He managed to load one slug, before the katana was wrenched out of his stomach. His gun arm was then sheared off. He screamed until his breath ran out.


"Before you beg me to finish you off?I want to know where those Halflings went" Asim uttered.

"Never you Neoaristocratic swine" The bartender spat.

"I see?" and with these words Asim calmly cut off the man's other arm, and laced the tip of the blade between his victim's eyes.

"Never" The man shouted with tears flowing down his cheeks.

"Very well"

A faint silver flicker was the last thing Chuck saw before his head rolled off his shoulders. [I]Why did you not interrogate him further more?[/I]

"He was bold enough to shed his tears of pain in front of me?It was the honorable thing to do... he protected his companions?it's very refreshing to see such loyalty at times like these?" Asim murmured.

A small crimson puddle was forming under the dripping blade. [I]You are very strange?[/I]

"That I may be?" He said as he wiped the blood off his glimmering reaper, and sheathed it once again.

He then went to the bar, and picked his fallen cloak. Like a shadow coming to life; it embraced his body. The hood spread darkness upon his face. He calmly left the tavern.

"One way or another I will find you fire breather?" He whispered.

Coming out of the bathing chamber; he wore nothing, but the towel wrapped around his waist. Steam swirled about his wet body. He took a long look in the mirror; his face had not really changed over the years except for a scar here, and there.

"I have missed you my love?" A sweet soothing voice glided to his ears.

He smiled, as he turned his head towards his bed, which was at the far end of the room. On it was a supple figure in a silver silk robe; her name was Kasuka. He paced towards her with quickening steps. She lithely stood up, and threw herself into his strong arms.

He closed his eyes, as did she. Nothing was said for a while. They only listened to the heartbeats of one another. His fingers gently stroked her long dark hair. She opened her beautiful eyes; they were filled with life, and hope as they shined under the moonlight coming through the windows. He took a long deep look into them; dreaming away.

"I had urgent matters to attend" He said.

"I understand, but still I missed you?" She said, as she tightened her embrace a bit.

His index went under her chin, and lifted her head, so that he can look straight at her.

"The masquerade ball at Lord Diwa's palace tonight?" He asked.

"let us go" He continued.

As her full luscious lips parted to utter words he softly, but intensely kissed her.

"I won't take no for an answer?" He said, with a gentle smile.

"Very well" She said blushingly.

She then left the room to get dressed. He called upon Geigzer to ready his formal outfit. It was pretty much the same as what he wore previously, only white not black, with a golden belt, brown knee high buckled boots, and light brown suede gloves. He also told him to bring his mask. It was of silver, and had a long red feather; abstractly resembling the red crowned crane. He also took his weapons.

"Excuse my intrusion sir?"Geigzer said.

"You are excused?"

"I have been informed that there is a possibility that the mob might raid the ball tonight?This comes from a reliable source?They want to steal something from Lord Diwa, but I don't know what...I was also told that they might ignore the peace treaty"

"I appreciate your concern Geigzer, but I can handle myself, and those foolish rogues are nothing, but that fools?They will be crushed" Asim said.

"Besides all the nobles are well armed, so let them come?"

[I]They do have a plan?I can feel it?[/I] The bane spoke.

"So what I will destroy them?"Asim said

"Sir?" Said Geigzer in bewilderment.

It was at that moment that Asim realized that the sword spoke more often, and freely than ever, and was doing so increasingly.

"Nothing?nothing..." Asim said.

A chariot halted in front of the entrance of massive palace. The place was alive with laughter, and people. A very charming couple descended, and gracefully walked in.

[Andrew]

OOC: Apologies for the shortness and the delay, college work is a royal pain!
---

"What an annoying man," she muttered. "Let's get out of here. Major, where's that safehouse?"

Freya’s frustration was clearly evident, so Armstrong wasted no time in gesturing to the door whilst bowing to allow her to pass. The other Chimera’s quickly followed as Armstrong led them down the street and into an alley. On the other side of the alley they quickly crossed a few more streets, moving relatively quickly and seeing few people.

Eventually they ended up at a rather run-down looking building. At the back door, Armstrong pulled out a ring of keys and looked through them quickly and tried a key. It didn’t fit. He looked somewhat disgruntled but looked for a second key and tried it. Again, it didn’t fit.

“Heh, if you’ll excuse me a moment...” He begged while looking at the keys, “...This is the apartment...garage...brothel...Then this must be...” He mumbled to himself, apparently finding the key. With a quick pull of the trigger, the padlock was gone and his old style glock was back in its holster inside his cloak before they’d realised that he couldn’t find the key.

“Shall we?” He questioned as he walked through the door with a goofy smile on his face.

They were immediately faced with a set of steps and then another door, which led into a maze of identical looking corridors. He took three lefts, a right, another left followed by another two rights...or was it four? Eventually they came to a tightly sealed door with a control panel next to it. Armstrong’s gloved hand began roving the numbers, hitting them so quickly that most of the others couldn’t follow.

There were a few beeps as the box comprehended his code, and with a hiss, the door unsealed and opened into a large room with many more doors.

“Welcome!” His voice boomed in the large room. “This is my safest house, my very personal favourite! I’ve been preparing it for a very long time for just an occasion like this. Each of these doors leads to various sections of a large compound. There should be enough space for all of you and more! I’ve spared no expense, this place if top of the range...despite what my shenanigans outside led you to believe. Please, make yourselves at home and if there is something that you require that isn’t here, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Each of them looked around, amazed at the sheer size of the place. Armstrong proceeded to pull several little black boxes from his cloak and handed them out to his new friends. On closer inspection, they were small computer-like devices with a large screen and keypad.

“These are my gift to each of you. They’re easy to use and mostly do all the work for you so don’t worry. On this little baby is the location of every safe house I have in the entire city! There’s at least one every mile or so, so you’re never far away from shelter. Most of them are already occupied, but by people like yourselves. Obviously they aren’t as unique but they welcome strangers.” He spoke again.

The main door slammed shut as he led them into the living quarters. A large place with many comfortable seating areas, many large computers all over the place and an even bigger rarity in these times, a fully functional television set and various other multimedia nearby.

“Like I said, make yourselves at home...”

[Disenchanted]

Oran took directly to Armstrong?s words ignoring the others and making a B-line for the bathroom facilities, on his way he look a medical kit. Entering the bathroom he set about properly cleaning his wounds, in any other circumstances he would have just licked them and have been done with it.

The cut wasn?t that deep but still warranted some attention. Oran was cursing the man that gave him the cut. It was bad enough to scar, yet another one to add to his collection. Oran looked up and took in his features in the mirror, he loathed his eyes. To him they were hideous but he couldn?t hide them, and that?s what made him angry. Oran slammed his fist down on the bathroom sink causing a hairline crack to appear in the basin.

There was a sudden knock on the bathroom door and Oran simply yelled ?What!??
?It?s Freya, are you ok?? He growled, snorted and began to clean up his mess.
?I am fine? He heard her footsteps get further away as she left, she knew better than to keep annoying him when he was in one of his moods.
Oran cleaned up the bloodstained paper towels and disposed of them in the bin before exiting the room. He looked to his left and saw everyone had indeed made them selves at home.

Walking back out into the hall Oran decided to go looking for a room to sleep, he pulled out the black computer he was issued with and poked the keys with his claws. Various things popped up on screen including a wire frame layout of the facility. The place was indeed quite massive in its entirety. He found the sleeping quarters with ease due to the device, he entered one of the room not paying much attention to what it was decked out with. Oran flopped down on one of the beds and feel asleep.

[Rhym]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkSlateGray]Several hours later, Freya was relaxing in the safehouse when the phone rang. Freya glanced at Major, who grinned and picked up the phone.

"Don't worry, the lines are secure," he said, then, into the phone, "Hello?" He listened for a second or two, then said, "Yes, she is. Here ya go, miss."

Freya picked up the phone. "Yes?" she asked.

A feminine voice replied. "My name's Alina, I'm Corsair's aide. He wanted me to tell you something. He said he trusted you. You know about the ball tonight?"

"The Grand Ball the Neoristocrats are throwing? What about it?"

"Well, I'm sure you've heard the rumors that we're going to raid it?"

"Well yes, but there are rumors like that for just about any major Neoristo gathering."

"This time, they're true."

"Are you sure? But security's supposedly been stepped up like mad! It'd be a suicide mission!"

"Trust me, I know. And so does Corsair, which is why he sure doesn't like the fact that he's been pinned to lead the attack."

"Shit. We can't have him die, he's one of our most valuable allies. Can't he get out of it? Who set his up to it?"

"Not without being branded a traitor, he can't. Thing is, we're pretty sure the Mob members that got him stuck in this mess are 'Risto stoolies themselves, trying to undermine the Mob's power base."

"No kidding? What are we supposed to do about it?"

"Well, he said that he'd really appreciate the help of you and your, uh, 'associates' for this one. To make sure he gets out okay, you know?"

"I understand. I'll see what we can do, Alina. Goodbye."

"Thanks. Bye."

Freya put the phone back down in its cradle. By this time, everyone in the room was looking at her. She cleared her throat.

"Well, it seems like Corsair has gotten himself in a whole mess of trouble. He wants our help and protection to make sure he gets out of the Grand Ball alive. I really hope that just the four of us can get him out okay."

Major spoke. "Five, you mean. You think I'd let you leave me behind from something this fun?"

Freya smiled. "Thanks for all your help, Major. Still, five people isn't that many for something this big. Of course, knowing our luck, maybe we'll meet up with more of our comrades on the way there."[/FONT][/COLOR]

[TheRebel_Nikolas]

((OOC: Sorry I haven't posted in a while, with school and all))

~~~

It was hours later before Nikolas lay down the book he had been reading. He glanced at his watch as he stood. The hour was late and the time was near. The Neoristacrats were throwing a masquerade ball and now was his chance to strike. It was suicide attacking alone with so many Neorisacrats present, but it would be worth it.

Hurrying to what would surely be his death, Nikolas quickly showered and changed into his best clothing. He grabbed a bottle from a cabinet above one of the sinks, and sprayed himself with it. He only needed to have a human scent to get past the guard dogs. After that, if he managed to accomplish what he was going for, it wouldn't matter if he was found out. Holstering his weapons he grabbed a mask off of a table and left.

He walked the first few blocks before 'borrowing' a vehicle. With the vehicle it didn't take long for him to arrive at the ball. From there he followed a Neoristacrat to the entrance. Fortunatley, not one of the guards recognised him. The dogs had not recognised his scent either. He had almost passed through when one of the guards stopped him.

[COLOR=Red]"Hey, you"[/COLOR]

Nikolas, thinking he had been caught, began to panic.

[COLOR=Red]"You dropped your mask"[/COLOR] said the guard, holding out the dropped item.

He grabbed it from the guard.

[COLOR=Red]"Have a nice evening, sir"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"I will, thank you"[/COLOR] he answered the guard.
Truthfully, he would more than likely be killed this evening. Turning, let out a breath of air. He had made it inside. Now he just had to wait for the right moment to attack.

~~~

[Kitty]

[color=#006aaf][size=1]Kyusa stood before the large double doors of the building in her hoodie and baggy jeans, making sure her face was shadowed and her tail and ears were hidden. She knocked several times before a young woman that served as 'doorman' appeared. She raised an eyebrow as she examined Kyusa.

"Is Miss Aya still here?"

"What would someone as... [i]filthy[/i] as you have to do with Miss Aya?"

"She requested that I come see her," Kyusa replied calmly to the woman's snooty remark, handing her a small slip of paper. The woman walked over to the reception desk to have the note checked and verified. Kyusa wasn't at all upset by the reaction she recieved, just appearing at such a fancy place in her dirty, unwashed clothes. But she spent most of her time in the slums, so she could do little about it. The woman came back to the door with a disappointed look on her face.

"Hmm... Alright. She's on th--"

"Top floor. The door's to the right of the elevator. Yes, yes, I know. I've been to her penthouse before."

Walking swiftly past the woman, Kyusa fought back the desire to whip around and tease the doorwoman with a gesture for being so rude and pompous towards her just because she was wearing raggedy clothing. Stopping opposite the elevators, she pressed the button and waited for her ride up the stairs. A few men passed by as she waited, staring at her as they did. She paid them no mind, or as little as she could.

There was a soft 'ding' sound as the elevator reached the lobby floor. The doors opened and Kyusa quickly stepped in.

[center][color=black]~~~[/color][/center]

"I'm goin' to need you at the ball tonight."

A thin young woman stood in front of a mirror in a metallic blue dress, fixing her earrings, while Kyusa was trying to balance on the woman's water bed. The woman turned towards the bed when she didn't get an answer.

"You'll come, right?"

"I doubt they will let [i]me[/i] in, though, Aya. I do not pass for human very well, let alone a rich Neoristocrat, if you could not guess," Kyusa growled, pulling her hood down. Her face was covered in a thin layer of black fur, making her yellow eyes pop out even more in contrast. Her orange stripped ears twitched slightly as she pulled her fingers through her short, black hair.

"I know that. But I don't need you to attend the ball. Just keep watch over it. Of course, it [i]would[/i] be much easier sneaking you in with me if you hadn't grown fur..." Aya sighed.

"Well then call up the bastards that made me this way and give them a piece of your mind!" Kyusa shouted. She was beginning to show her temper, something she tried to prevent as best she could. But before she could really get angry, Miss Aya placed a hand on her shoulder and stroked her head.

"I'm sorry. I was only joking, but I guess I shouldn't have. But Kyusa, I need to know if you'll come to this ball. The idiot Mob thinks it's going to crash the party, but with you there, I know we can stop them from even getting to the front door."

"... You know I am only helping you to find Brother, right? I have killed quite a few people for you, Aya, over the past few years, but you have yet to hold up your side of our agreement," Kyusa replied, her face emotionless.

"I love you like a sister, Kyusa. I'm trying my best, but I still haven't found anything about your 'Brother'," Aya muttered, standing up quickly. Any mention of other Chimeras made her uneasy, Kyusa had noticed. It was to be expected, though. Aya had come to trust her, but the thought of more of her kind roaming around Neo Avalon was not a comforting one. "But I need you to tell me if you'll agree to come."

Kyusa eyed her 'friend' closely. Aya did not make eye contact, and was pacing swiftly, something she didn't normally do. She was also extremely insistant on this matter, which was strange since she normally was just passing on requests from her more powerful Neoristocrat friends. But it seemed now like she was asking for herself.

"... You will not tell--"

"Anyone or anything. Your attending the party will be known only by me," Aya nodded, finally coming to a halt and staring straight at Kyusa.

"Then I will be on alert throughout your little dance. Call me when you think I am needed. You have my number," Kyusa sighed reluctantly, standing up from the bed and walking towards the door. But as she headed for the exit, Aya grabbed her by the arm.

"And what if... Kwi shows up?"

"Do not be worried. It would take much more than a few petty crooks to exhaust me enough for [i]her[/i] to emerge. I will keep watch over your friends' party without an unwanted guest appearance," Kyusa reassured her. Aya's grip relaxed as she placed a large envelope in the girl's hands, then watched her walk out the door.

"Only a couple of hours, my dear. And then you'll have served your purpose, outlived your usefulness."

The sound of a cell phone filled the room. Walking over to the dresser and grabbing her phone, Aya glanced at the number before she gazed out her window at the cold, lonely city that filled the view. "... And gotten your way out of this horrible place," she whispered before putting the phone up to her ear.[/size][/color]

[Asim]

"Lord Asim the dreaming crane and Lady Sakusa?"The announcer spoke.

Hand in hand; they entered the fabled domed hall of Diwa. The stars shined through the glass ceiling; shedding their tranquil beauty upon the mingling guests.

Greeting his friends, and clansmen, he suddenly paused. A mysterious woman in a blue dress caught his eye; an old acquaintance. He slowly paced towards her with a wicked smile on his face. Sakusa was caught up in a conversation with someone.

"Countess Aya, how gracious of you to add your beauty upon this already wondrous evening?"

"Surely you think not to seduce me with such alluring words?"

"Very presumptuous of you my lady?if you would've taken a pondering moment you could've seen that my heart is already in the hands of another?just beautiful as you?but far less twisted?"

"You can have me now if you want, I don't mind?you know that other men bore me?they're so obvious?you on the other hand always left something for the imagination" She whispered as she grabbed him close, and kissed him on the cheek.

"I have had my share of your games?sorry to disappoint?"He smirked, as he gently pushed her back.

"Never my dear?you will come back to me sooner or later?"

[I]I know you will?[/I]

"Do not count on it?"

"There you are my love?"Sakusa came, and held his arm.

"Countess Aya we have not been in the grace of your presence for sometime now, I do hope all is well..."

"Oh no need to worry yourself my dear?I just needed to retreat from all the excitement for a while?"

"Very well then?"

They exchanged pleasantries, but the atmosphere was a bit tense.

"Please excuse us?We must go and greet Lord Diwa for this splendid setting" Asim said, as moved away with Sakusa.

They talked with the host for a while, and then the music started.

"There are rumors of an upcoming revolt?tell me Lord Asim do you see some truth in this?" Lord Diwa asked.

"It certainly is true to some extent, but still the mob has a weak position, and there are many of our agents infiltrating their lines?If such a thing would happen I think we'll be prepared?"

"Yes, but what of our fragile leadership?"

"I say we leave politics for more serious times?let us enjoy the rest of the evening?our more gentle companions are in need of attention at the moment"

"Ah yes, always a man of the ladies Lord Asim?very well please enjoy yourselves" Said Lord Diwa, with a smile. He was good man, and Asim trusted him.

"Would you like to waltz??my love" Asim spoke to Sakusa.

She blushed, and slightly tightened her grip on his hand; Pulling him into a corridor. He was pushed back into a wall.

"Keep this in mind?" She whispered before pouring her soul unto him with an excruciatingly sweet kiss.

[I]I love you?[/I]The sword reflected her thoughts.

[I]And I love you[/I]?He thought.

There was a moment of silence, and tears flooded their eyes.

"I will?"He softly replied.

"Now let us dance?the time is ripe" He continued.

They stepped into the middle of the dance floor, and began to waltz under the moonlit sky. Aya stared with an envious gaze, as she squeezed on the wine glass she held. There was a smoldering fire in her large jade green eyes.

Asim never knew such exquisite happiness, and neither did Sakusa. They wished they could linger forever in eachother's arms. To them there was no one else in that hall, but them; everyone else gradually faded away.

[DeathKnight]

[color=crimson]"... they..-ill.. arrive...shortly.."

The message for Corsair was heavily fragmented from the ad hoc encryption system that had been applied to it. It was good news. Well, kind of. The position he was in remained precarious. The guard was heavy and elite- the kind of skilled soldier only money could spawn. Their numbers made them more of a small army than a security force- too much for Corsair and his squad, that's for sure. Political Mob maneuverings had landed him in this hot seat- only his skills and luck could bail him out.

"Alright.. listen up." He said in a low voice to his squad. They were a short distance away from the decadent hall that the Ball was taking place in. They were in the shadows of an abandoned highway, the lone piece of squalor in the area. The long shadow cast by the highway was a good enough cloak for the squad. "I've got some friends on the way who are more suited to this kind of thing than we are. We're going to use some muscle to clear them a clean path into the heart of this little shindig. With them, we can prolly score a nice little victory here.. both tactically and politically."

"Still, we're in some shit aren't we?" One of his squad mates said. He was a younger man, a little bit green.. for a member of the Mob, that is.

"Yeah, a bit. This isn't going to be an easy evening." Corsair rubbed his chin as he spoke, "There will be a lot of blood spilt tonight. Make sure it isn't yours that is being splattered across the room." His words made the young man shift uncomfortably a bit which caused Corsair to smile. "You'll be fine, kid."

"Yeah.." Was the extent of the young man's reply.

The sound of an engine roaring to life caught Corsair's attention. He looked back to the large vehicle behind him and the mechanic that was crawling out of it's hatch. "Finally get it going, Bishop?"

"This thing is older than you are, jesus." Bishop replied and dusted himself off, "Where did you get this antique?"

"Old friends." Corsair looked at the tank behind Bishop and nodded, "It'll be a good enough artillery piece. Now.. we need to disorganize them as much as possible before our cavalry arrives and we charge in there. Primarily.. I want to cut the power to the district. Two of you.. stay here and guard our artillery piece. I don't think they will pick up on it but you never know. The rest of you are coming with me. We've got some demolition work to do."[/color]

[TheRebel_Nikolas]

((OOC: In an attempt to revive this thread...))


IC: Nikolas had been in there for a while now and still no sign of whom he came for. He began to wonder whether or not he'd show. It was getting late and he had not done what he came to do.

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Which way to the restroom?"[/COLOR] he asked one of the waiters.

[COLOR=SlateGray]"Just down the hall"[/COLOR] he replied.

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Thank you"[/COLOR] He walked down the hall and entered the first door he came to. On the other side was a large, brightly lit bathroom with tiled floor and walls. One wall was lined with mirrors and and sinks, and along the other were numerous stalls. He checked to see if anyone else was in the room. Seeing no one else he unbuttoned his jacket and grabbed one of his guns. He was nervous now and wanted to check to see if everything was in line. Releaseing the mag, he swore, for it was empty. He quickly checked his other firearm. Also empty.

"S***. I didn't bother replacing the mags when I returned to the compound. I better leave, now. I don't want to be here if I can't finish the job" quickly replacing his weapons he left the room in a hurry. He walked through the ballroom and out the front.

[COLOR=Red]"Leaving already, sir?"[/COLOR] asked one of the guards. The same guard that had stopped him on the way in.

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Not feeling very well"[/COLOR] he said without stopping. He quickly left the area and took a different way back to the compound. When he arrived outside the entrance he sensed something odd but could not place it. He dropped into the sewers and replaced the cover. Then he figured it out. The cover was open. He had closed it when he left. Or did he? He couldn't remember. All the same, he proceeded with caution.