RPG The Almagest Legacy

[James]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/vincentavatar.jpg[/img][/center] Vincent sat in the rear seat of his steam car alone, as it pulled out onto the street. His mind was in a vague haze, as it had been for several weeks. So many issues were circling into consciousness; his loyalty to Czenovia, the health of his mother, his relationship with Macey and the strange dream he kept having over and over again. The dreams were all related; this much, Vincent felt he could assume. In all of them, he was either lost and being saved or he was protecting someone far more vulnerable than himself. The object of his dreams was a young man, whom he did not know. How could his dreams be so vivid ? how could he visualize every last detail of another person ? without ever having met them? The meaning of the dreams was, in and of itself, something that occupied his thoughts often. But Vincent was particularly fascinated with the young man. Who was he? What did he want? Was he actually a real person? Vincent doubted this last possibility, but he failed to understand the significance of the man. Nonetheless, he was fascinated by almost every feature of this person who had shared his dreams for months. His long, blonde hair assumed an almost ghostly quality; there was something unquestionably flawless and almost divine about it. And his youth! What was it about the man?s youth that so fascinated Vincent? Perhaps it reminded Vincent of better times, when he had been carefree in Anova. Yet there was something else subtle tugging at his mind. Vincent felt like something was missing from his analysis or from the dreams themselves; some crucial piece of the puzzle was missing. He was yearning to know what it was. The young man?s image seemed to dance around in his mind for days after each dream. It was as though he wanted something, but Vincent didn?t know what. As a true testament to Vincent?s state of mind, he suddenly realized that his car had stopped several minutes ago. He looked out the window and saw the imposing front gates of the Royal Police Guard Headquarters.

[Rachmaninoff]

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Alexander wasn't at all sorry that the party of last night was done and over with. He much preferred the more quiet mornings and evenings with just him and Alecia as they either chatted over breakfast or dinner and conferred about how their day had gone. And this morning was no exception as he finished getting cleaned up and into his uniform for work. Alecia always woke up before he did and like always she was already at the table, checking the newspaper while she sipped on some coffee, her breakfast already done. Upon entering the room, one of the few servants they had took her dishes away after setting his own breakfast down. Something that he still was not use to, having someone else wait on him.

It didn?t take him long to finish up the simple breakfast of toast, bacon and eggs and though he would have loved to linger and talk a bit, a quick look at his pocket watch indicated that they needed to be off soon if they didn?t want to miss the train going down into the lower area?s of High Czenoble where both of them worked. He finished off his own coffee and then took Alecia?s hand in his as she stood up.

?[B]You look lovely,[/B]? he commented as he always did. Even in her more plain green dress, with a wrap around her waist going up about six inches, long close sleeves that did not flare out and a simple skirt that went almost to the floor. No extra petticoats and even her green shoes were short little boots with silver laces. All of it practical and useful instead of dramatic and showy.

In short, a standard uniform for a potionist still doing her residency, once she finished and was promoted to a more senior status, she would be allowed to wear finer materials and the trim would change to gold instead of silver. It was by High Czenoble?s standards, quite plain and lacking some of the more usual basics of dress like a corset, but working with patients required less clothing to snag on things and more freedom of movement to accommodate their work.

Alecia just smiled at the usual compliment as she fetched the green cloak for her work uniform. ?[B]You say that every morning.[/B]?

Alexander just chuckled a bit as he leaned forward to kiss her. ?[B]That?s because it?s true.[/B]? He said, taking her arm in his as they left their small home to head for the train station.

"[B]Just as it's true you look as handsome as always in your uniform.[/B]" She teased him back a bit, smiling at what a lovely day it was turning out to be.

What Alexander would have said next was lost as they walked into the station and then stepped into one of the waiting cars of the train. The staff at the station knew both of them on sight and other than a cheerful good morning wish nothing else was said. For citizens such as Alexander who worked for the Royal Police Guard and a Potionist, no ticket was necessary. The RPG had free access to accommodate their job and Alecia's residency included use of public transportation as well.

Alexander guided her to a seat and then as they discussed where to meet for lunch later that day, he couldn't help but watch the landscape as the train headed down the sloping terrain. High Czenoble was built in levels that slopped downward beneath the grand palace. With only the most wealthy living up closer along the top edges of the city. The grand estate of the Almagests, where the party had been held last night was clearly visible in the early morning sun.

The further down they went, the less grand the homes were and then it switched over entirely to the schools, the market and stores as well as the many hospitals, air transportation facilities and office buildings for the commerce through out the land. All of it neatly maintained, even down to the simple stables for housing the different carriage services for hire. There was more of course, theaters, resturants and other wonders, but the city was far to large for Alexander to be able to see it from the train. Overall, it was a far cry from Alexander's original home in New Czenoble.

Finally, upon arriving at their stop, both of them exited the train and headed down the street. First making a stop in front of the hospital where Alecia worked and then once they said their goodbyes for the morning, he was on his way to the headquarters of the Royal Police Guard to check in before heading out on his morning patrol.

[Chikara Kokoro]

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Nellie never associated the words bright and early with Princess Augustine, yet there they both were riding in a car on its way toward the family of some kidnapped alchemist. On a normal day, the thought of family members being kidnapped would have struck concern into her heart. In her immediate family scientists and alchemists, potential victims, were in abundance. She did not dwell on this, for this morning the princess' personal guard was still recovering. Every moment she stayed at the party and every flute of champagne she drank could be felt in her body and her lagging mind. Five hours of sleep an alert Royal Police Guard does not make.

?[B]Oh, Nellie! What have I told you about getting sufficient hours of sleep?[/B]? Augustine asked. The princess stared at her guard's face, just below her eyes, and Nellie could only assume that it was at the inevitable dark, puffy circles that had made their presence from lack of rest.

The guard did not respond. After several years of working for the heiress, she knew that Augustine would continue to chatter and cluck without any outside input. In small doses, Princess Augustine was almost enjoyable to be around, but how odious she could be was made quite clear after daily contact. Surrounded by metal, Nellie let the words slip through her ears; she would become more alert the moment they left the car.

?[B]...and I thought we got rid of this boyish aspect of yours[/B],? Augustine continued. Nellie concluded that the princess must have been having either a very good or a very bad hair day to be spending so much breath on another person. She could never tell. ?[B]Women of this era are beautiful flowers, my dear. Wearing the uniform of a [I]man[/I] is unacceptable[/B]!?

This argument had been held before, and it inevitably resulted in Nellie wearing the most [I]frou frou[/I], flowery dresses imaginable for weeks at a time. Still, on a day in which they would be walking through the houses of people she never heard of, Nellie would not risk mobility for the safety of someone she was paid to protect. Her hand rested over her sword- clearly designed for a woman with its thin blade and decorative guard, but with the same potential power as any other- as a reminder of the precautions she had taken for a day she felt quite uncertain of.

?[B]Allow me this indulgence just for today, Your Highness[/B].?

Augustine puffed up her cheeks in a most unflattering manner, a mannerism that indicated her frustration, before responding.

?[B]Fine[/B].?

[B][I]Ga-BOOSH![/I][/B]

The car jolted to a halt, Nellie drew her sword out half an inch, and Augustine's hand fluttered unil it rested above her chest. Steam billowed up in thick clouds around the hood of the immobile vehicle.

?[B]What was that[/B]?!? Nellie shouted at the driver.

He shrugged, recovering quickly from the shock of the stop.

?[B]I guess it broke[/B].?

?[B]You guess [I]what[/I] broke[/B]?!?

?[B]The engine[/B].?

?[B]And what should we do about this[/B]??

The driver gulped, he had heard rumors of the Royal Police Guard's violence towards people of lower classes, and he had no desire to experience that pain. He stepped out of the car, walked around to the side of the car next to the sidewalk, and held open the door.

?[B]Wait[/B]?? he intended the sentence to have more authority than how it came out.

Augustine's voice reflected her confusion as she spoke, ?[B]You want me to wait outside and risk ruining my beautiful, pale skin[/B]??

?[B]Yes[/B]??

Nellie let out a breath in a way that reminded the driver of a fire-breathing dragon in nightmares he had as a child. She stepped out of the car, her boots, the only ?fashionable? things she wore that day, slamming against the concrete. The sun was not yet above the buildings where they stood, and a breeze blew through the buildings just softly enough to not tousle one's hair. She spoke so that each word was so enunciated there was no room left for misinterpretation.

?[B]Are you sure we need to be out of the car for you to repair it[/B]??

?[B]Yes[/B]??

She leaned against the car and looked inside at Augustine who was staring at her reflection in a small, pocket-sized mirror, smiling like a child with a piece of candy.

?[B]You can come out, Your Highness. It's a nice day[/B].?

The driver offered the princess his hand, and she stepped out into the sun, parasol held as low as it could be to protect her precious skin from the sun's rays. She fidgeted from one foot to the other. The driver stared at Nellie.

?[B]Do you want me to start working on the car[/B]??

?[B]What do you think[/B]??

?[B]Yes[/B]...??

?[B]If you have to, arrange for another transport. Princess Augustine can not be late[/B].?

?[B]Yes, ma'am[/B]!?

He ran to the front of the car and lifted up the hood, sending even more steam spiraling skyward. Nellie looked around the street, keeping tabs on every person that walked by. Adrenaline gave her the capability to be vigilant as the princess prattled on about the potential dangers of the sun.
[/FONT]

[Cyriel]

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[FONT="Franklin Gothic Medium"][COLOR="Indigo"]After finishing with Fervus, Morphia changed from her jockey uniform into something more comfortable, opting for a pale blue tunic that brushed to the tops of her boots at mid-thigh. Binding her hair back, she looked towards the door again, but only a few of the hands were milling about.
Morphia could feel the excitement of the crowd begin to build ? soon the jockeys would be lining up and ready for the race to begin. For now she could hear riders taking turns around the nearest warm-up ring. Trying to bury her disappointment, she wandered over to the spare riding area, taking a look at her future competitors. While some of the beasts looked intimidating enough, Morphia knew most of the riders well enough to know that they wouldn?t be able to give her too much of a contest.

A creature with silken midnight fur trotted by, it?s size less than what she herself usually felt comfortable riding. However it was quite evident that it was well cared for and conditioned, lean muscles rippling beneath its coat. It definitely intrigued her ? the feline mixes that she had tried to train had always fallen short of her expectations, all turning out to be too sensitive for the Circuit. Morphia?s eyes traveled upwards to the jockey; to her mild surprise she saw Henry?s face, his expression one of intense concentration.

[i]I?ll have to ask Henry about his chimaera?[/i]she thought to herself, [i]perhaps he can help me with a feline breed.[/i] She said nothing at the moment however; it would be highly unsuitable to interrupt another jockey before a qualifying race.

[b]?Lady Markham,?[/b] a young messenger suddenly said quietly, [b]?a note from your father just arrived.?[/b]

Morphia took the envelope the young boy handed her, breaking the blue seal immediately and opening the fine parchment. Agron Deacon?s handwriting was unmistakable:
[INDENT][i]Daughter, return to the estate at once. There are family matters to be discussed, as you should be aware. By the way, your older brother has unexpectedly departed once again, shortly after you left for the Circuits. I?m sure you are not surprised.
~Your Father[/i][/INDENT]
Morphia?s jaw clenched, and she crumpled the note as she began walking away from the warm-up area. [i]So he left without a word. I should have guessed?[/i]
[center]~~~~~[/center]
[b]?Sir, I?m afraid that we cannot let you through. Only jockeys and staff are allowed in this area,?[/b] the sentry repeated. The Circuit employed its own security to keep the masses and aristocratic public away from the dangerous beasts.

Jonathan rubbed his hands together to keep from decking the guard; despite his repeated explanations they had refused to let him through. He was late enough as it was, and he was sure this would not help with his little sister?s temper. [b]?I?ve already told you who I am. Keep getting in the way and I can guarantee that it won?t be the most pleasant outcome??[/b]

One of the guards laid a hand on his weapon, [b]?We?ll have to ask you to leave now. Otherwise we can have you escorted out, if you wish sir.?[/b] His unease was very evident, and already a few other sentries had gathered around from the other entrances. Jonathan smiled to himself; he hadn?t really been looking for a physical disagreement today, but it was always a welcome distraction.

[b]?Jack!?[/b] Morphia called out in surprise as soon as she saw her brother. With the multiple guards gathered around his tall figure, she knew that she had come just in time. [i]Why am I not surprised?[/i] She waved the sentries back to their posts, [b]?It?s alright ? my brother should always be allowed access to any part of the Circuit.?[/b]

[b]?Sorry for the trouble, sister,?[/b] Jonathan said with a crooked smile, [b]?although I think they?re more afraid of you than they were of me.?[/b]

She stared at him for a minute before answering quietly, [b]?Father said that you left.?

?And you believed that old man? You know how bitter he can be."

?And you?re late,?[/b] she said, her charming mouth set in a grim line.

[b]?Don?t be angry with me, Morphia,?[/b] he said, his hands on her shoulders.
Relief seeped through her, despite the small flame of anger. She hadn?t realized how anxious she had been about Jack?s possible departure until she felt her knees almost buckle as he rubbed warmth back into her arms.

He continued to rub her shoulders, [b]?I?m here now, aren?t I??[/b] As soon as the words left his mouth, Jack knew he had touched a nerve.

Morphia instantly stepped away, her eyes giving him a grudging look, [b]??But for how long? Another day, or maybe a week this time??[/b] She brushed past him without another word, heading towards the exit.

[b]?Morphia? Where are you going??[/b] Jack turned, hands in the air.

[b]?Home!?[/b] she yelled back, as she stormed out of the Circuit.[/COLOR][/FONT]

[Shy]

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While the two siblings had spent their entire lives in High Czenoble, neither were very familiar with its' sister city at the bottom of Mount Grail. Unlike the hills and estates they had come to know, this town was a dense, confusing maze of factories and apartments. Traveling around New Czenoble was difficult, if not impossible, for an outsider to navigate through. As Fauntleroy found his elegant steamcar stuck in traffic he began to wonder if he shouldn’t have brought a map.

“[b]This is absurd, Fonty![/b]” Eva exclaimed, “[b]Can’t you take a side road or something?[/b]”

“[b]I don’t know this mess any better than you do. If we don’t stick to the main roads who knows where we'll end up.[/b]”

Victoria Ann lowered her head timidly as an intimidating chimaera passed by on the opposite end of the road.

“[b]This place is awful and dirty, Aunt Eva![/b]” the girl cried, “[b]Can’t we stop and get something to eat?[/b]”

“[b]When your Uncle stops and asks for directions perhaps we'll be able to get some breakfast then![/b]”

"[b]We're not lost.... at least not exactly. Everyone keep your eyes open for the rally.[/b]"

Harrison nodded, “[b]What is this rally supposed to be about, anyhow?[/b]”

Eva turned around to face the children, “[b]You see, the people who work for our Magitech company are unhappy with how they are being treated. They want more pay, less work, and all kinds of things like that.[/b]”

“[b]That doesn't sound like a bad thing, is it?[/b]” Harrison asked.

“[b]It’s not as simple as that, Harrison,[/b]” Eva replied, “[b]Things have been like this since your father's grandfather discovered Magitechnology in the first place. If we pay them more we’ll have to charge more the products we produce. If that happens, people might turn to our competition….[/b]”

“[b]And before you know it we’d be begging on the streets, too.[/b]” Fauntleroy added as he honked his horn in frustration, “[b]Rotten carriages! What is the hold-up?[/b]”

Eva laughed softly as she patted her brother on the back, “[b]Beatriste and Aunt Harriet are going to bite your head off when they find out where you took the children,[/b]” Eva said with a sly grin.

“[b]When we stop we’ll send them a wire to let them know what is going on,[/b]” Fauntleroy replied, “[b]No doubt Aunt Harriet has alerted half of the Royal Police Guard by now…[/b]”

Harrison pointed towards a member of the guard standing in the middle of the road, blocking traffic from all sides, “[b]Hey, there’s an RPG now! I wonder if they know Nellie.[/b]”

The guardsman approached the steam car and Fauntleroy opened his window, “[b]Excuse me officer, but what is taking so long?[/b]”

“[b]I’m afraid I can’t let you pass, sir. This area of the city is blocked off for today’s rally.[/b]”

“[b]Oh good![/b]” Eva said cheerfully, “[b]Then we’re not lost, after all.[/b]”

Fauntleroy glared, “[b]Why would the Dynast waste valuable manpower on something as trivial as a rally?[/b]”

The guard motioned towards a large crowd looming on the horizon, “[b]There isn’t much of a choice, sir. With so many of the factory workers blocking the streets there is nowhere for the steamcars and carriages to go. I suggest you turn around as quickly as you can because…[/b]”

Fauntleroy raised an eyebrow in suspicion, “[b]I’m afraid you are confused. My name is Fauntleroy Almagest, and this is Marie Evangeline Almagest. We’d like to see firsthand what kind of mess our workers are creating for this miserable town.[/b]”

Eva smiled, “[b]Perhaps there’s some way we can get an escort? I know Assistant Commander Achard would consider it a personal favor...[/b]”

"[b]Commander Achard? Yes ma'am![/b]"

The guard saluted, and began clearing a path for the steamcar to travel through.[/size][/indent]

[Raiha]

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[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"][i]The explosion was so great, that it had separated Macey from her entourage as well as her father, and she came to reasonably quickly. In time, she realized that her experiment may very well die without her collecting him before evacuating. Struck by a pang of guilt, she rushed down the debris filled hall. She hiked up her skirts more than was decent, revealing work boots instead of the typical feminine shoes of the day.

"Oh my poor treasure, please be alive!"

With that prayer in mind, she yanked open the door once more and swooped down on her beloved experiment. Hovering somewhere between genuine human concern and scientific pride, she began to unlace his bindings.[/i]

"My treasure, are you alright?"

[i]Her creation looked confused, his eyes not focusing, until the last of the bindings fell away. Specimen 071 stood up unsteadily, and nearly fell over on legs that were somewhat atrophied. He looked up at her with eyes that focused very slowly and his words were slow and careful. Macey felt like shaking him to get him to speak faster, but restrained herself.[/i]

"I feel a little funny. ....my legs aren't working right."

"They'll come back to you. But right now we have to run."

[i]He was about to ask her another question, when she quickly extended her cloak around him, drawing him close to her skirts until he was nearly obscured by them. She stepped into the hallway cautiously, and found the path to her office open. Half carrying, half dragging Specimen 071 behind her, she headed for her doors, where she knew there was a tunnel exit as well as some of her effects.

Carefully, she unlocked the door, pulled it open, and found her office empty. Callisto hadn't broken in even though she'd certainly had half a chance. All of her current research lay bound up in one of her many journals, and she snatched it up before pulling aside a book shelf with surprising strength to reveal a smaller door with a staircase leading down. She turned to her treasure.[/i]

"We're going to have to go further underground to escape. The main exists have been blocked by an explosion. Are you going to be able to keep up with me?"

"....I think so."

"Then hurry!"

[i]Macey nearly shoved him down the stairs, and watched him slowly make it down with the aid of a railing, while she turned back, rearranged her office and locked the door from the inside. Then she hurtled herself down through after him, pulling the door shut behind her and locking it yet again. As she made her way down into the myriad of tunnels under the labs, she couldn't help but wonder if her father had made it out safely. Callisto could choke for all she cared.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR]

[Malkav]

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[I]Of all the times to act out,[/I] thought Jack as Morphia stormed away. He knew that it was going to be a time to explain himself, but he would rather do it away from the house and away from the family. He'd rather it just be he and Morphia having this conversation without the prospect of his father or someone equally terrible coming by to interject their opinion into the matter.

Morphia walked speedily down the avenue with her nose turned up clearly ignoring Jack as he called after her. Realizing that she wasn't going to stop, he set out at a stride after her. Trying to dodge the crowds of people as well as random beasts which happened by his way, Jack slowly made his way towards Morphia who seemed to be gliding effortlessly through the masses and byy the time Jack had another good look at her, she had disappeared behind an airbus. Scrambling to get to the other side of the airbus, Jack watched as it took off, but she was no where to be found on the street. Looking up Jack saw that she had boarded it and watched him through sad eyes as it took to the air. [I]Bloody hell[/I].

Jack watched her as she left cursing to himself outloud so much that people stared at him as they walked by. [I]Why'd she have to go and do something foolish[/I], he thought, stuffing his hands in his pockets and starting to walk. He took one last fleeting glance at the airbus, pulling his hand out of his pocket and holding it up to block out the sun as it flew off. He could still see Morphia in the window, and seeing her he held his hand out, as if trying to pluck the ship back down from the sky. He then saw A purple gloved palm rest itself on the window, and taking that as some sort of sign, Jack clenched his outstretched hand into a fist and brought it back down to his side. [I]So this is what it feels like to be left behind...[/I]

Jack immediately took note of his sorroundings at the arena. He looked at the Airbus's direction and measured it against the sun with raw mathematical genius most would mistake him not to have. He then remembered all of the airbus stops, and remember that considering where it was, it's next stop was Artemis Air Transports. Without another moment wasted, Jack ran back toward the arena where a jockey was showing off his beast, a giant black bird-like creature.

Jack walked calmly to the jock and the beast's back, noticing the saddle and ropes already attached to it and then suddenly ran and hopped on its back, forcing it forward right under the Jock's nose. [B]"I'll return it when...well when I bloody get done with it![/B] yelled Jack as he took off with the beast down the road.

Nimbly, the creature pranced through the crowds, as anyone not looking to get crushed by it immediately ducked out of the way. Everytime someone came too close, it would let out a shrill screech that would result immediately in someone jumping. Jack watched the airbus duck behind and in front of houses and adjusted his path as needed. He had to beat the airbus there, he had to show Morphia that he did care. As he rode, he started attracting some unwanted attention. Behind him, large cars with pillars of black smoke were gaining on him. It was the Royal Police Guard, and from the looks of things they weren't too happy about his love-blind romp through the streets of High Czenoble. Jack cut into an alley, narrowly missing getting ran over by one of their cars, but within moments, one of the cars turned into the alley and gave chase. Jack pulled on the beast's ropes hard, forcing it into boxes and crates, trying to knock them down into the car's way. The tactic seemed to be working, as the car slowed down to a crawl before eventually stopping. Jack was free.

Or so he thought. As he came to the end of the alley, another RPG car pulled in front of him, blocking the alleyway. He was surrounded. Jack halted the beast. He looked to both sides, and saw as the policemen began to exit their cars. Jack reared the beast and cursed to himself. There was only one way out. Up and Over. Jack planted both of his boots into the sides of the chimaera and sent it careening toward the car at the end of the alley. The guards stood there, not believing that he was going to actually do it. The beast let out a cry, letting Jack know it wasn't liking this plan either. Jack planted his boots into its sides again and it lept. It lept high into the air, using it's feathers and stubby wings to glide above the car. Jack let out a yell of triumph as he sailed pass the car. But that yell of triumph quickly became a yell of terror as Jack realized that the road was next to a drop off, and they had jumped way to high to land on the side of it...

The creature plummetted about twenty feet or so onto the roof of an unsuspecting building, scraping off the tile while trying to gain footing. Jack and the creature slid closer and closer to the edge of the roof before finally the beast stopped itself and gained balance. Jack couldn't help but smile as he looked up to see the guards looking down on him. he threw them the deuces and beckoned the beast forward across rooftops to Artemis Air Transports where he still had a deadline to meet.

He arrived just in time to find the airbus about to leave after loading its passengers. He had long gotten rid of the chimaera to throw the RPG off of his trail and lucky him they never got a good look at his face. Jack hopped on the airbus as it was taking off and looked around, but he couldn't find Morphia. [B]"Did a little blonde girl with a bad attitude get on here?"[/B] he asked the driver, AAT was slowly shrinking beneath them.

[B]"Yeah,"[/B] replied the driver, [B]"she got off here. Poor girl was crying, but wouldn't let anyone get close enough help."[/B]

Jack cursed himself again. They were already in the air, but Morphia wasn't on the ship. He looked down toward Artemis Air and saw a ship resembling a swan pull out onto the flight deck of the hangar complex. Jack recognized it immediately as his own Cygnus. [I]When this is over...[/I] he thought to himself. He watched as it wobbly took flight, moving more at an angle than straight forward. Jack immediately took the controls of the airbus, much to the chargin of its driver and b-lined it straight for the Cygnus.

It didn't take much maneuvering to come head to head with the Cygnus. Although, now Jack had to figure out a way to board her. Opening the doors to the airbus, this time to the chargin of the passengers, Jack jumped onto the Cygnus and held on for dear life. The airbus driver by now had regained control and veered off from Jack's ship.

Inside the Cygnus, Morphia wiped away her tears. She didn't know what she was thinking when she stole this ship, nor did she know where she was going. She felt she could have thought this out better, maybe waited and stole the ship at night. But what if Jack were gone by tonight? Or worse yet, what if he took this as a reason to leave? She was a strong girl, but when it came to him, when it came to Jonathan Deacon, everything just... Morphia let another tear fall.

She looked outside at High Czenoble, and realized she could see their home from the air. It looked as it always had ever since she could remember. Nothing changed, nothing ever changed there, and she hated it. [B]"You know, it could be worst out there."[/B] came a male voice from behind Morphia, she knew it was Jack, she remembered when the sensors for the emergency hatch went off.

[B]"Really. Once you get out there, everything becomes a fight. You don't know where your next meal is coming from. You don't know when the change in your pocket will run out. Hell, you're lucky if your best friend isn't going to try and slit your throat because the same thoughts are plaguing him."[/B] continued Jack. [B]"At the end of the day, as glamorous as it may sound, a pirate's life takes away more than it gives." [/B]

[B]"Funny..."[/B] replied Morphia, still staring out of the cockpit into the horizon, [B]"With all of your stories. It's hard pressed to believe that."[/B]

[B]"What am I going to do? Complain? Its the life I chose, and its the price I paid for wanting out of this family. For wanting out of this life."[/B] Czenoble was in the distance now.

Jack walked closer and stood besides her as the ship flew, Jack was trying hard to hide the fact that he was giddy. This was his first time on his new ship.

[B]"Why didn't you take me with you?"[/B] asked Morphia, addressing the clear problem that drew them to this point.

Jack hesitated before answering, making sure what he said came out just right, [B]"Because a ship with a crew full of men is no place for a little girl. I couldn't look after you day in and day out."[/B]

[B]"So I would have been a hassle? A bother?"[/B]

[B]"Morphia stop it. Do not make this all about you. I did what was best."[/B] Jack hadn't noticed her shaking. [B]"...Turn her around Morphia. Lets go back."[/B]

[B]"Why? This could be our chance. We could leave right now. I can finally go on an adventure with you! I've dreamed of this."[/B] Morphia tightened her grip on the controls. Jack had to admit she was pretty good at this for a first timer.

[B]"What will we do for food? Money? How are we going to survive, just the two of us? You want to pull a heist? You want to hold a gun to some old lady's head while I go through her purse?" [/B]

Morphia said nothing as they soared along, Jack felt like he'd said everything he could.

[B]"You know what, Morphia?"[/B] said Jack, sitting in the navigator seat and strapping in. [B]"Take us wherever. You're in control."[/B]

He got comfortable, and reclined back as the Cygnus soared on.
[/COLOR][/SIZE]
OOC: You're up Cyriel

[James]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/vincentavatar.jpg[/img][/center] A pair of imposing doors, at the end of a seemingly endless hallway, faced Vincent. Audrey stood next to him, with several thick folders under her arm; she was always prepared for every meeting. The doors led directly to the office of Gaul Rosier, Chief Commander of the Royal Police Guard. Today should have been routine; Vincent and Gaul met weekly to discuss the following week and to pour over progress reports from many fronts. Even for Vincent, who had been a military man for years, Gaul Rosier was intimidating. It was hard to say exactly why this was so. Vincent considered that Gaul did not [i]look[/i] particularly powerful, as such. He was shorter than Vincent and he wasn't young. It occurred to Vincent that it might have been the simple fact that Gaul Rosier was one of the most powerful men in Czenovia. He was possibly only a few orders of magnitude less powerful than the King himself. In fact, if Gaul had ever wanted to stage a coup, he most probably could. After all, the Guard was mostly loyal to him and he was the kind of man who could command respect from even the most critical opponents. Of course, Gaul would never question the King; the King was quite possibly the only man who could completely and comfortably control Gaul. Gaul was generally not a man to be controlled by others. In addition to his obvious power, Vincent couldn't help but feel that Gaul was somehow coldly intelligent; he showed few signs of humanity. He ruled his Guard with an iron fist. He demanded results and God help anyone who couldn't deliver. There were all sorts of rumors about Gaul Rosier within the Guard, including the persistent suggestion that he had made several dozen Guards "disappear" over the years for disagreeing with him. It seemed odd to Vincent that he had never personally had a problem with Gaul. Although nobody would dare to admit it to Vincent, it was true that just about everybody disliked Gaul or was afraid of him. Yet Gaul had always treated Vincent with at least a little humanity; in some respects, Gaul seemed to view Vincent as an heir (which was surprising in and of itself, primarily because Gaul seemed to view foreigners with nothing but contempt). Vincent looked at Audrey, who's eyes were fixed on the double doors in front of them. 'Are you ready?' Audrey didn't shift her gaze. 'Of course,' she said in a rather matter-of-fact way. Vincent grabbed the golden doorknob and twisted it. With a heavy click, the doors swung open and revealed an enormous office beyond. Gaul Rosier's office was unlike any Vincent had ever seen. It was a curious place. In one corner, Vincent always noticed a rather odd steam machine, but he could not decide what it was. More than anything, it seemed like a useless trinket that existed purely for curiosity's sake. It was quite unlike Gaul Rosier to own any object purely for aesthetic and impractical reasons, yet there were a number of artifacts around the office that apparently fit into this category. Mostly, the walls of the office were lined with books about politics and military strategy. Or, failing that, Gaul kept many volumes of Royal Police Guard Official Code, which he himself could recite to the letter. The far side of the office was rounded and made entirely of glass; it took up one entire side of the Royal Police Guard Tower, which was the official headquarters of the organization. From here, one could see the entire city of High Czenoble. And in the distance, further down the mountain, New Czenoble was barely visible. A silver telescope sat near the window; Vincent could very much imagine Gaul Rosier spying on the denizens of New Czenoble in a god-like manner. Gaul was sitting at his desk. He had a large book open in the middle and was writing furiously with a black feather quill. The only sounds in the room were the scratching of the quill and the gentle puff of the steam machinery in the corner. Both Vincent and Audrey sat down in chairs opposite Gaul's desk. Audrey judiciously unclipped her folder and took out a pen of her own. Finally, Gaul looked up at the pair. His cold grey eyes peered over the slim silver spectacles on his nose. He attempted a smile, but it looked forced as always. 'Welcome, Vincent. I almost thought you had more important plans this morning,' he said coldly. Vincent had arrived to the meeting almost a minute late. This was Gaul's gentle way of reminding him never to be late again. Vincent knew he should heed the warning. 'I apologize, Sir,' said Vincent quietly, 'it won't happen again.' Gaul placed the quill next to the large book and closed it. As he did so, his eyes moved between both Vincent and Audrey; he almost looked suspicious, as though he didn't want anyone seeing the contents of the book. Finally, he stood up and began pacing back and forth along the glass wall behind his desk. Gaul was always dressed in full Royal Police Guard attire. He wore a simple grey coat and trousers with the RPG emblem on each arm. The shoulders of his jacket contained three silver spikes, which grew larger as they fanned out from his inner-shoulder. He wore a high, red collar and dark red leather gloves. One of Gaul Rosier's most defining features was that he also walked with a cane. He had a very slight limp, which he had always attributed to the Mine War. His cane was made from pure silver, with a large ivory sphere on top. 'I will not take up much of your time today,' said Gaul as he slowly paced, his eyes glued to the floor. 'You have no doubt read this morning's edition of The Chronicle.' Vincent nodded. 'Yes, I have. You are referring to the kidnappings?' Gaul seemed to cringe at the word. 'Yes. It seems we have enemies of the Empire in our midst, as much as it pains me to say it,' said Gaul coldly. Vincent could very much imagine Gaul Rosier being physically sick at the idea of anyone who didn't love the Empire. 'Several prominent Alchemists have been abducted by an unknown group. Although,' Gaul glanced at Vincent over his glasses, 'I do have my suspicions about their identity.' 'I see,' said Vincent. He looked at Audrey who was diligently taking minutes. He did not quite know what to say. 'As you are aware,' continued Gaul, 'many prominent Alchemists in High Czenoble belong to the Almagest family. I am sure that poor Leonhart is worried for his family members and I know that he despises traitors as much as I.' Vincent nodded. 'The Almagests were one of the main groups involved in the Mine War. And of course they created Alchemy. I suppose you could say they almost gave birth to this nation.' Gaul nodded vigorously and grinned - his first real grin for the day. 'Yes, as you know I have great respect for the Almagests. Or at least, I respect the older generation. Some of the younger family members disappoint me.' Gaul paused and turned to face the window. 'But I digress. We have some limited intelligence on the group responsible for these kidnappings. I am afraid that our early information suggests the presence of anti-Imperial forces. We must obviously destroy this group as quickly as possible.' 'I will do what I can,' said Vincent. 'Excellent.' Gaul finally turned to face Vincent directly. 'You are close to the Almagests. I want you to visit Rosengard and speak with Leonhart yourself. He may have some idea about who these people are.' Vincent paused for a moment. Something did not add up. 'Sir, please forgive my ignorance, but why are we not mobilizing the entire Guard to search for this group?' Vincent was sure that he saw Gaul shudder again. 'There is already a great deal of rumor-mongering in the city,' said Gaul sharply, 'and some of the less desirable elements - particularly in New Czenoble - might feel buoyed by the perceived existence of a resistance movement. We do not acknowledge that any formal movement exists. And so, we must deal with this matter privately and without delay.' Gaul returned to his chair and sat down. He clasped his gloved hands together. 'Go to Rosengard and learn what you can. If we are going to defeat these terrorists, we are going to need the support of Leonhart Almagest. He has many links that we can only dream of.' And with that, Gaul gestured for Vincent to leave the office.

[Sandy]

[CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gadgetavatar.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/maceyellen-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER]

[FONT="Georgia"]Their escape had been a blur to Gadget. Macey led her through a series of tunnels and secret rooms. Somewhere along the way she had found a white uniform to cover his naked body.

Gadget's legs still felt a bit wobbly, but he could already walk on his own. Macey carried a magitech torch to light their way. Gadget could see that she was trying to keep her calms for his sake.

[B]"You... you don't have to do that"[/B], Gadget said, coming to a sudden stop. Macey turned around.

[B]"Do what?"[/B]

[B]"Act so brave. Not for my sake. You lost your father... I get it."[/B]

[B]"We really don't have time for nonsense, treasure... Excuse me, I don't even know your name."[/B]

If it weren't so dark, Gadget could've seen the blush rising to her cheeks.

[B]"Gerr... Just call me Gadget. I know your name. It's Macey, right?"[/B]

[B]"Yes. Now please follow me. This tunnel should lead to a place few blocks away from the aerodrome. I need to get you out of this hellhole-of-a-city."[/B]

Then Macey pointed the torch away from him and continued on. Soon they reached a rusty metal ladder.

[B]"We need to go up from here. I'll take you to my family's private airship."[/B]

[B]"Where are we going, then?"[/B] Gadget wondered. He was still amazed about what this woman was ready to do for his sake.

[B]"To High Czenoble, to my family's home. I'm sure I can pass you as my personal assistant. Besides, when they find about what happened back there, they will be too worried about my father to even notice."[/B]

[B]"Oh..."[/B] The thought of going to the City Above was quite infathomable to Gadget. [B]"Okay. But what if your father is alright and he comes home and finds me there?"[/b]

[B]"We'll worry about that when the time comes. Now, you climb ahead."[/B]

Gadget climbed up the ladder and found himself in a dusty warehouse filled with abandoned laboratory equipment. Sunlight was trickling through the wooden door. It made his eyes sore, since it had been so long since he had last seen natural light.

But as they stepped out, Gadget found that his eyes adjusted quickly. Then he could see that the whole city was in the verge of chaos. Pillars of black smoke from the fire at the laboratory was covering the sky, and the streets were filled with people. Steamcars were stuck in the crowd, and a few Police Guards tried to control the situation in vain.

Macey clutched Gadget's hand and started to push through the crowd. [B]"This way. I can see the dome of the aerodrome already!"
[/B]
After a long struggle Gadget finally found himself inside the deserted aerodrome. Macey lead him to the airship hall. A pilot standing next to a luxurious red-and-golden airship bowed to her. The man had a concerned expression on his face.

[B]"Lady Almagest, may I inquire where your father is?"[/B] the pilot asked.

[B]"There has been a great disaster, Bastian. I need you to take me and my assistant to the safety of Rosengard - immediately."[/B] Her tone of voice left no questions.

Gadget followed Macey inside the vessel, but his mind was frozen. Did he hear correctly? [I]Almagest[/I]? Did Macey - she who called him her treasure - really belong to the family who maintained the enslavement and poverty of thousands?[/FONT]

[Gavin]

[INDENT][SIZE="1"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/catherinesaraavatar.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER]

Earlier in the day Daedalus had been in a good mood, he had sat in his personal airship quietly admiring the simple and elegant architectural beauty of High Czenoble. As expected he arrived with time to spare at the High Academy of Sciences and was introduced formally by his sister to the incumbent headmaster Lector Moebius, a tall, pale lithe man who though only a few inches short of Daedalus? towering six and a half foot, seemed to bear none of the same presence the latter carried himself with. Immediately he was unimpressed by the man.

?[b]It really is an honour to have you here Commander Almagest.[/b]? Moebius had gripped Daedalus?s extended hand with both of his own, and was shaking it with gleeful abandon.

?[b]Please, call me Daedalus.[/b]? He extracted his hand from the grasp and allowed it to fall to his side.

?[b]Ah, Daedalus then, I really must say, it is such a treat to have you here. I know you?re quite a busy man, and I cannot express how appreciative I am that you can visit us.[/b]?

Internally Daedalus sighed, he had prepared himself for the avalanche of praise and thanks he would be subjected to, the fawning, but nevertheless he was almost instantaneously bored by it. He wondered silently how Leonhart dealt with it so courteously.

?[b]Thank you, but I am happy to be here if your students will benefit from my presence. Magitech Corporation is always in need of talented alchemists.[/b]?

He cast a small smile over to his baby sister, it was funny that even after five decades he still seemed to consider Catherine Sara in such a way. He recalled clearly her birth, he was eighteen years old, a fully grown man in his father?s eyes, and married just under a year to his beloved Harriet. The pair had waited excitedly at Rosengard, which had sheltered the Almagest family for three generations. They had spoken in hushed tones, he had held her, his hand on her smooth stomach as the contemplated the day both of them would be ready to become parents themselves.

It was sometime after noon when he, Harriet and Leonhart had been called into their parent?s room. His father Reuben was simply sitting on the end of the bed, totally silent, staring at the infant held in his wife?s arms, his father had been an abrupt man in life, always in motion, rarely stopping to consider the feelings of others over the goals he worked for. Inside Daedalus grimaced slightly, he had become even more like his father than he had ever though, his own eldest son following in similar footsteps, a child who would be born a mere decade after his aunt. But in that moment of time, he was simply still.

Leonhart had amused him to no end on that day, despite there being only two years in the difference between there ages, the gap had always seemed larger. He had looked on with a wide-eyed innocence and held on to his brother and his wife. Sadly the Mine Wars would eventually take much of that wide-eyed innocence from him, and some of Daedalus? own, he recalled ruefully.

Catherine intertwined her arm through Daedalus?, bringing him back from his memories.

?[b]I?m glad you could make it Daedalus, you spent so much time working, I thought this would be good for you.[/b]?

?[b]I expect you?re right, you?ve always tried to look out for me, for as long as I can remember.[/b]

She gave him one of her gentle smiles, the same kind their mother had rewarded him with as a boy, and he still missed her terribly. Catherine was so like their mother, it was truly a shame that she had never married and had children of her own. She seemed to notice him slipping off again and squeezed his arm gently.

?[b]Thinking of something pleasant ?[/b]?

He murmured an affirmative. ?[b]...Mother.[/b]?

?[b]Her anniversary is coming up, hard to believe it?s been twelve years.[/b]?

?[b]Yeah...[/b]?

The siblings walked arm in arm towards the grandiose entrance to the High Academy, he had done something similar on her first day there, their father having been dead just over a decade at that point. He had been the guest speaker then too, Daedalus thought absent-mindedly.

That had been earlier in the day however.

Now he was standing at the site of the explosion at Prometheo Labs, demanding answers from a particularly frightened looking member of the police force. Catherine looked on silently, praying that they had not lost Leonhart and Macey.[/size][/INDENT]

[Raiha]

[RIGHT][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/maceyellen-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gadgetavatar.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/beatrist-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/RIGHT]

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"][i]Macey sat down in one of the nicer seats, and patted the one next to her for Gadget. He sat down awkwardly, unsure of himself in such luxurious surroundings, and clasped his hands in his lap carefully.

The airship carefully rose above the chaos of the city, and with a roar of engines, hurtled towards the relative safety of Rosengard and the warmth and quiet of her rooms. Gadget gripped the sides of his chair in fear, and Macey was about to make some lighthearted comment to make light of it when she realized that he'd most likely never even been inside an Airship, much less one traveling at high speeds. She patted his hands gently and gave him a reassuring look.[/i]

"Don't worry, Bastian is the best pilot in the family. He'll get us there safely."

"If you say so..."

[i]The ship landed in a haze of smoke and steam, and the landing gear engaged safely, everyone alive and in one piece. On shaking legs, Gadget stood, fearful that something else might happen, but Macey took his arm in hers carefully and led him down the steps to the landing bay. He clung to her with what was probably an unreasonable amount of trepidation, but at the same time, Macey could hardly fault him for his feelings. Everything here was nothing he'd ever experienced.

As Macey staggered towards the warmth and light of the family estate, Beatriste came running down the wide staircase towards them, arms outstretched. Macey threw her arms around her sister, near tears but keeping a stiff upper lip.[/i]

"Oh it's simply [b]awful[/b] Macey! The explosion! Is Father still living?"

"I'm not sure right now, but I felt it was best to get myself and my assistant to safety before anything else happened."

[i]Beatriste turned with some surprise, noticing Gadget perhaps for the first time. She gave him a friendly nod and he simply looked uncomfortable, but returning the nod with a bob of his own. Macey let Beatriste lead them both to one of the smaller rooms, adjacent to Macey's suites. Sinking into a chair with a sigh of satisfaction, Macey closed her eyes for a moment and rubbed her temples. Gadget remained standing, unsure of his position. Macey turned to him with a serious look, while Beatriste was out talking to one of the servants.[/i]

"Listen carefully Gadget. While we're here, I'll need you to be very careful. It's my responsibility to keep you safe, and thus, you must always act as my assistant. I'll tell you more when I can, but right now, just please follow my lead. Don't talk to anyone if you don't have to, and please keep a very low profile."

"Why are you doing this for me though?"

"Many reasons. But right now, I feel responsible for everything that's happened to you. I owe you that much."[/FONT][/COLOR]

[SunfallE]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alecialeanna-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER]
Alecia wasted no time in heading for the small office that was hers in the prestigious Eshe Rehema medical center. Though there was staff dedicated to seeing to the needs of the sick, many of them workers from New Czenoble, she still was required to check with each patient who was under her care. Though even if she were not required she would have done so just the same. No worker from New Czenoble had the knowledge or understanding of when or if it was necessary to change the medicines that she was skilled at making.

Though the art of Potionism was at times miraculous as to what it could cure, it was also just as lethal and dangerous if the individual was given the wrong potion. It was part of why she and other potionists spent a part of each day in careful research expanding on the uses of magitechnology in order to better explore the potential as well as lesson the risk. As much as Alecia enjoyed seeing others respond well to the treatments, she enjoyed her research even more. Especially since she was certain she was close to discovering new cures for some of the diseases that still eluded their grasp.

It didn?t take long for Alecia to finish checking those who were currently checked into the Eshe Rehema, nor to check the lab where her experiments were. Satisfied that all was in order she headed back to her office to drop off her small bag with the equipment and potions she used while doing her rounds. Once she had done the necessary paperwork she would be able to head to the small restaurant down the street where her and Alexander often met and shared lunch together. She was almost to her office when a soft voice from one of the corridors caught her attention.

?[B]Lady Almagest.[/B]? The soft feminine voice was almost a whisper.

Alecia stopped and turned towards the voice, it was one of the workers. ?[B]Yes?[/B]?

The woman shifted nervously, refusing to meet Alecia?s gaze. ?[B]I?m sorry to trouble you ma?am, but?[/B]?

?[B]Well? What is it?[/B]? Alecia prompted when the woman did not continue.

?[B]I?[/B]?

Alecia started to get impatient, until she realized that she could see tears running down the woman?s cheeks. [I]What in the world?[/I] Alecia took the woman by her shoulders and steered her into her office and then closed the door behind her. Wondering just what had her so upset.

?[B]I can?t help you if you don?t tell me what the trouble is.[/B]? Alecia said once the door was shut.

?[B]I?m sorry, it?s just that my son is sick and I don?t know what to do.[/B]? The woman finally told her as she looked up at Alecia.

Alecia started to ask her if she had talked to someone there at the medical center and then changed her mind, she knew the answer already. Even if the woman and her son worked there, even if the sickness had come from being exposed to one of the patients they helped take care of, citizens of New Czenoble would be denied treatment and simply sent home on the train for carrying workers between the two cities. Which was the same as getting no care at all.

?[B]Where is your son?[/B]?

?[B]He?s here, waiting in the laundry room until my shift is over and I can take him home.?[/B]

?[B]Take me to him.[/B]? Alecia commanded her.

?[B]Yes ma?am, thank you![/B]? She started to say but Alecia cut her off.

?[B]Don?t thank me, I can?t promise that I?ll be able to help after all.[/B]?

?[B]Begging your pardon ma?am, but most would not even spare him or myself a glance.[/B]?

More than anything, as Alecia followed her to where the laundry room was located, she would have loved to disagree with the woman. But unfortunately, she was correct. Very few cared about what happened to those less fortunate than they were. Something that as she checked the poor boy out only to find that his illness was so easily treated, just made her angry. Not that she showed that anger to his mother as she soothed her worries and assured her that he would be just fine so long as she made sure he took the medicine she gave her as prescribed.

Finished, she checked her pocket watch only to see that it was almost time for her to leave to meet Alexander, she had just enough time to drop her stuff off in her office, but she had only gotten free of the laundry facilities when Alecia ran into one of the head Potionists responsible for not only the facility but for overseeing the progress of students like herself.[I] Lovely.[/I] It just had to be one of the Potionists who strongly disagreed with her views about equal treatment and care.

?[B]Alecia Almagest.[/B]? He frowned at her, clearly displeased. ?[B]You have been told many times that our services are not for those of New Czenoble, if a worker is sick, they can return home and receive treatment there. I will not continue to ignore your obvious disregard of policy and procedure.[/B]?

?[B]And I will not ignore your continued disregard for the sick based on one?s [I]status[/I].[/B]? Alecia snapped. It was an argument that she was tired of hearing. There was no decent medical care in New Czenoble and he knew it. What little medical services that did exist in New Czenoble were often far more than any citizen there could afford.

?[B]You?re leaving me with no choice but to restrict all?[/B]? He started to say but Alecia beat him to it by slapping him. Causing quite a stir among those who were passing by.

?[B]Don?t presume to think that you can restrict who I choose to treat.[/B]? She said icily. ?[B]We?ve had this discussion before and I grow tired of it. If my conduct concerns you so much then stop with the idle threats and simply dismiss me. I assure you, there are many places far more deserving of my skills than some of the overly spoiled patients who are catered to here.[/B]?

Furious, she turned and left, her bag still clutched in her right hand as she exited the building to go where Alexander would be waiting for her. [I]I?m sorry grandfather,[/I] she thought as she walked down the street. As much as she didn?t want to cause trouble or create strife for the family, at the same time she could not stand by and watch someone die when it was so easy to care for them. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[Cyriel]

[center][IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/morphiaavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/jackavatar.jpg[/IMG][/center]
[FONT="Franklin Gothic Medium"][COLOR="Indigo"]It almost felt like the entire world had opened up to her; Jack had given her permission to go anywhere. And yet…past the initial excitement she felt nothing. Even Jack had had to return periodically to High Czenoble; he had never been completely free of their life, and Morphia knew that this was not the way to her liberation either. The only real way was power – if she had enough power then no one would be able to rule her. With a small sigh she steered the Cygnus in a different direction.

“Don’t feel like being a pirate anymore?” Jack said from behind her. His voice was slightly teasing.

Morphia shook her head, “I never wanted to be a pirate. All I wanted was to go with you, and all the other details didn’t matter. But you’re quite mistaken about one thing.”

“Oh? What would that be?”

She turned and stood with her hands on her hips, “I’m far from some little girl that needs to be taken care of. And as for a crew of men, I’m quite capable of defending myself, brother.”

Jonathan laughed and shook his head, “Yes, I’m sure that the first thing men feel is terror when they see you.”

“I’m perfectly serious!” Morphia said, smiling as she gave Jonathan a hard whack on the arm.

“Alright, no need to get abusive. Where are we going, anyway? Wait a minute, is that New Czenoble?” he said, seeing a cityscape coming up.

Morphia nodded, “Just because you didn’t take me along doesn’t mean I’ve been a good girl at home all these years.”

Jack swiftly turned on his younger sister, “You mean you've been to New Czenoble before? Please tell me you didn’t go alone.”

“Well…I might have, yes,” she replied tentatively.

“Morphia! It’s dangerous! Especially with the atmosphere right now, what were you thinking?” Jack had to restrain his voice to keep himself from shouting.

Morphia’s own temper surfaced a little, “Look, nothing happened – you can see for yourself, I’m perfectly safe!" As she remembered the experience she knew that she had probably been a little lucky. A stranger had helped her that time, a solitary man who had been wearing long robes and a cloak that hid most of his body. No one had bothered her while she has been by his side, and with that mysterious stranger she had run along the rooftops after snatching some random knick-knacks.

“Morphia…”

She held up her hand, “Don’t say anything! It’s too late anyway to take me back – we’re here!” With that she smiled up at Jack, who finally shook his head in ascent. “By the way, could you bring in the ship? I have absolutely no idea how to dock this thing.”
Jack could only laugh as he took over, and they flew into New Czenoble.
The docks were all oddly quiet, but the streets were packed with people and vehicles, all trying to reach their destination. It seemed absolutely chaotic, and eyes were instantly drawn to Morphia. Jonathan noticed this at once, and pulled her into one of the side streets where he shoved her into a drab little clothing store.

“Jack, what in the world are you doing?”

“There’s no way with these crowds today that you’ll be able to walk around looking like that,” he replied, gesturing to her light silk tunic. “Here, change into this.” He handed her a plain dress of coarse linen, which she took without a word behind a curtain. She came out changed, only to find another piece of cloth shoved into her hand.

“What’s this for?” she asked, holding up the somewhat thick grey veil.

“Your hair, obviously.”

“But none of the townspeople cover their hair,” she said, draping it around herself. The veil covered most of her head and shoulders, but a few golden strands still escaped and framed her face.

Jack smiled, “Yes well, none of the people here have hair that looks like pure gold – it’s an obvious giveaway. But now you look more acceptable for a regular citizen.” Handing the shopkeeper a few coins, the pair left and rejoined the people on the street.
Jostled constantly in the crowd, Morphia kept a hand on Jack’s elbow so they wouldn’t be separated. A few steam-cars had been overturned, and smoke was pouring out of them. The mass of people seemed to be getting larger, all trying to get to the same area it seemed.

“Look Jack! The RPG is out as well! What in the world is going on?” Morphia said, looking around.

He looked around wryly, "Looks like we may have run into the rally." At that point a large mass of people came into view, with banners and signs filling the streets.[/COLOR][/FONT]

[Darren]

[SIZE="1"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/charlesavatar.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER]

[B]"But Dad, do we really have to go now?"[/B] Bertram whined. He seemed to do that alot. A quality that developed while Charles was away.

He, Bertram, and Pearl had been navigating the city all day. It started with an early breakfast, followed by a trip to the Chimaera Circuit, lunch at the park, a brief visit to the zoo, and now they were heading out once again. Both Pearl and Bertram were holding one of Charles' hands.

[B]"We went to the Chimaera Circuit for you, and now Pearly wants to go see Great-aunt Macey at work at Prometheo Labs. It's only fair--"[/B]

[B]"But Macey enjoyed the races, too! Why should we have to go all the way across town for something she won't even like in a week?"[/B]

[B]"I will so like it in a week."[/B] Pearl piped up. He was shocked at her bravado, since Pearl was a very quiet and polite, only speaking out when something really irritated her.

Charles squeezed both of his children's hands slightly, signaling their silence.

[B]"Bertram, if you behave yourself, perhaps we can convince Aunt Macey to take us on one of her airships."[/B]

Charles felt bad for the statement, because he doubted that Macey would actually have enough time to visit with the kids. At most, he figured she would get one of the staff members to give them a tour. Nonetheless, Bertram immediately straitened up. He apologized to Pearl and tried to act like he still didn't want to go.

[B]"But Daddy,"[/B] Pearl said, pointing to the rooftops of a buildings surrounding an alley-way, [B]"I just saw Great-aunt Macey's air ship fly away only a little while ago."[/B]

[B]"Are you sure it was hers, Pearl?"[/B]

[B]"Yes, it was the same one that she took us on before. And it looked like it was headed back to Rosengard."[/B]

It was strange that Macey-Ellen would be outside the work place at this time. Even though she had probably been exhausted from the night before, everyone in all of New Czenoble knew that Macey was a workaholic. Something was wrong, and as if to clarify that thought:

[B]"What's that noise?"[/B] Bertram said aloud, drawing his father's attention away from the sky. [B]"Is that smoke?"[/B]

Sure enough, smoke was billowing around the corner onto the street the family was walking on. Suddenly, as steam care desperately trying to escape the hectic main street of Prometheo sped around the corner, driving halfway on the sidewalk. Charles pulled his kids to the wall as the driver glanced over his shoulder.

He put Pearl on his back, her little arms were clamped tightly around his neck, and he let Bertram follow closely behind him with their hands clasped together.

As Charles inched around the corner, he finally saw what had happened. There seemed to be an explosion of some sort. The thick smoke obscured his vision, but what he could make out was hectic. A section of Prometheo Laboratories seemed to fallen in, but Charles couldn't tell if the event occurred inside or out of the building. It may have not even been an explosion.

[B]"Daddy, I'm scared."[/B] Pearl said, burying her head into his shoulder to hide her eyes.

Steam cars were backed up into the street, as everyone attempted to escape the scene. A few even abandoned their vehicles to escape on foot, increasing the trafic jam. RPGs were running around, just as confused as everyone else, trying to direct everyone to safety.

Charles hoped that Leonhart and Macey were alright, but his children were first priority and right now, it seemed that Prometheo Laboratories was not a good place to stay."[/SIZE]

[Malkav]

[SIZE="1"][COLOR="Navy"]OOC: I was writing this as Shy posted, I think it may fit in to what he's said. Like his post sounds like what may have happened after the events in my post.

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Jack assessed the crowd before them. It had been along time since he had seen this many people gathered on a street. He knew this had become commonplace in New Czenoble, rallying the people together and spitting fire against the nobles and elite. Morphia tightened her grip on Jack’s arm, drawing her closer to him.

[B]“You’re not frightened by all of this are you?” [/B]he asked her, beginning to walk forward. She stayed close to his side.

[B]“Of course not, I’m just making sure you don’t run off anywhere.” [/B]She replied.
[B]
“I guess. Keep your head low and don’t look anyone in the eye. I want to see what’s going on.”[/B]

[I]This is bloody unbelievable! The blokes expect us to be workin’ eighteen hours a day for what they’re payin’? It’s a bloody crime I tell ya! I and my boy are sick from it…[/I]

Jack and Morphia had settled into the back of the crowd. The men on the platform knew how to move the crowd. Morphia watched the rally with increasing interest and Jack, quite used to hearing about the tyranny of the people on the hill, simply stared into the crowd.

[B]“Why are they so mad? They should be proud that they can work like that. I know I couldn’t. Eighteen hours?”[/B]

[B]“Morphia, it is alright to work hard. But it’s not alright to not get compensated for it.” [/B]Jack explained to his sister, who probably was more excited about being there than necessarily sympathetic to the cause.[B] “These men aren’t getting paid enough for their work. Not only that, but prices are rising on damn near everything. The poor blokes don’t even realize that all their doing is making their bosses mad. This won’t get them anywhere.”[/B]

[B]“Why not?” [/B]asked Morphia, who was standing on her tip toes to get a better look.

[B]“Well, right now as they rally. Their managers are sitting in a meeting with their bosses. Their bosses will speak to the executives, who then will speak to the owners. The owners, who control the money, will start bribing the leaders of this rally. The leaders, needing the money will quell the crowds and promise them better conditions. In six months, we’ll be right back here.”[/B]

[B]“You’re not much of an economist, Mr. Deacon.” [/B]said a voice from behind Jack. He turned his head and realized he was face to face with Fauntleroy Almagest. He held a camera delicately in his hands and snapped a photo.

[B]“Damn it Fauntleroy!” [/B]yelled Jack who immediately snatched the camera,[B] “You know bloody well I don’t take pictures.”[/B]

Fauntleroy snatched back his camera and grinned wryly, [B]“Calm down mate, it was an ugly shot anyways. Who’s this young lady with you? May I ask her name?”
[/B]
Fauntleroy bent down to get a look at her face. At first he didn’t notice it, but after careful examination, realized it was Morphia. [B]“Ms. Markham! Why are you dressed like…like…that?”[/B]

Morphia put a delicate finger over her mouth. [B]“Quiet Fauntleroy, I decided to have a visit.”[/B]

[B]“That’s all well and good, but you could’ve ridden in a car. Better still, you could dress presentably!”[/B] he looked at Jack, [B]“I’m sure you put her up to this.”[/B]

[B]“What of it?”[/B] asked Jack casually, [B]“we were cruising in my airship earlier and decided to come see what the fun was about. This is…”[/B]

[B]“You’ve got an airship?!”[/B] squeaked a voice from below Jack. He looked down to see a little girl looking up at him with the biggest smile on her face. [B]“Is it big? Is it little? How fast does it go? Where is it? Can I see it?”[/B]

Jack looked perplexed. He recognized her immediately as one of Leonhart’s grandchildren. Victoria, if he remembered correctly.[B] “Err… yes?”[/B] said Jack, not knowing how to answer all of her questions at once.

[B]“Uncle Fauntleroy, can I go? Can I? Can I please?”[/B] she asked her Uncle, tugging at his sleeve. He shrugged her off and smiled.

[B]“Certainly not, the man may hold you for ransom.”[/B] Fauntleroy laughed at his own joke before noticing no one else was. He then spoke to Jack, [B]“Well then, what do you think of this. They’re trying to organize for the umpteenth time this year.”[/B]

Jack looked behind Fauntleroy to see a young lady and a teenaged boy walking up. [B]“Well maybe you should talk to your father about putting a little less coin in his pocket and more in theirs.”
[/B]
Fauntleroy didn’t say anything. Jack then remembered that for their part, everyone there loved, or in Fonty’s case, respected Leonhart a lot. [B]“What brings you here to the lower world?” [/B]Jack asked, trying to move the conversation off of his last comment.

[B]“Uncle Fauntleroy came for the Chronicle, he…”[/B] Victoria fell silent as Fauntleroy put his gloved hand over her mouth and motioned her behind him, where Eva grabbed her and held onto her shoulders.

[B]“Like the girl was saying, I’m here on business. I’ve brought my family along to have some fun. The little one was Victoria Ann, and I believe you’ve met Evangeline.”[/B]

[B]“Actually I haven’t.”[/B] said Jack, looking over Fauntleroy’s shoulder to address Evangeline, [B]“Jonathan Deacon. You can call me Jack however.”[/B]

She nodded gracefully and began paying attention to the rally once more. Jack couldn’t help but notice that the other kid was looking rather insulted right now. Jack turned and Fauntleroy walked beside him and Morphia. [B]“So who’s the other kid?”[/B] he asked as Fauntleroy snapped another photo.
[B]
“Unimportant…”[/B]

[I]I’m bloody sick and tired of being sick and tired! Everyday I wake up and it’s the same! Work! Every night I go to sleep, I dream about work! I deserve at least one day with my family! When my wife became pregnant with our first son, I couldn’t be there because I needed to work to pay off the doctor’s note! There’s no reason I should have had to do that! We deserve better than what they’re giving us! We can take our lives back and tell those bloody bastards to go kick rocks! Victory for the Proletariat![/I]

[Rachmaninoff]

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It was clear to Alexander that Alecia was upset when she arrived at the small restaurant where they had agreed to meet for lunch. A fact that the owner of the restaurant who was well acquainted with the young couple seemed to pick up on as well as he took them to one of the more private rooms usually reserved for those who were willing to pay a little extra for the additional privacy. Alexander gave him an odd look but the man just leaned forward and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, speaking loud enough for only Alexander to hear.

?[B]Don?t you go worrying about it, no one has booked this room for lunch.[/B]? He smiled a bit. ?[B]You take all the time you need to get things sorted out.[/B]? And then he let go and left, discreetly closing the door behind him.

?[B]What happened?[/B]? Alexander asked Alecia as he took a seat next to her on the padded bench against the wall, carefully moving her bag and setting it on the table.

?[B]I?m sorry Alex,[/B]? She was looking down at her hands that were tightly clasped together.

?[B]I lost my temper and slapped one of the head Potionists,[/B]? She looked up at him, her gaze troubled. ?[B]The one I?ve told you about that disagrees with my views about equal treatment.[/B]?

?[B]What did he do?[/B]?

Alecia sighed, ?[B]I treated the son of one of the workers from New Czenoble who was sick. If I hadn?t, the simple illness could have claimed his life and you know how treatment in New Czenoble is?[/B]?

Alexander put his left hand up to her mouth to hush her. ?[B]It?s alright, you don?t have to justify your actions to me. I agree with you.[/B]? He smiled reassuringly, getting a tiny smile back in return.

?[B]Let me guess, that pompous fool attempted to dress you down for wasting resources on someone from New Czenoble, or something like that.[/B]?

Alecia laughed a bit. ?[B]It does sound rather silly doesn?t it? I know that it?s procedure and all, but still, it?s just wrong to let someone who most likely got sick from being exposed to those he was working for go without treatment.[/B]?

Alecia moved until she was free from the table and stood up, pacing back and forth a bit before she turned to face Alexander who had gotten up as well, grasping her by the shoulders, stopping her from getting worked up again.

?[B]There?s nothing silly about it.[/B]? He assured her.

?[B]There is if I get myself dismissed.[/B]? Alecia said with a tiny quaver in her voice as she unconsciously bit her lower lip, looking as if tears were about to spill forth.

Alexander just pulled her close, hugging her tightly, ?[B]Then you?ll just find a better place to work.[/B]? He pulled back, reaching up to take her chin in his right hand. ?[B]There is always work for a Potionist, especially one who has no qualms about caring equally for everyone.[/B]?

Alecia just sighed a bit and then smiled. ?[B]I?m sorry Alex.[/B]?

?[B]I thought we already covered that.[/B]? He teased her.

?[B]I meant for making us miss lunch.[/B]? She said contritely as she showed him her pocket watch, indicating that the time for their break was almost over with.

?[B]Well it won?t be the first time I?ve had to go without lunch.[/B]? He said with a chuckle. ?[B]Anyway, let?s get you back over to the center, I?m sure you can smooth things over.[/B]?

Alexander opened the door, taking Alecia by the arm as they headed for the exit to the restaurant. The owner just nodded in their direction as they left and Alexander gave him a tiny nod of thanks for having the good sense to notice something was amiss and place them where they could talk in private.

It didn?t take long for them to get to the medical center and Alexander had managed to relieve a good amount of Alecia?s tension with tales of some of the silly things he had encountered in the last month at work. As they walked up the path to the center, that feeling of good cheer was lost when they realized that the head of the facility was waiting at the front doors for Alecia. Upon seeing them he hurried to where they were, causing Alecia to tense and grasp Alexander?s arm tightly.

?[B]There you are![/B]? He exclaimed as he got closer. ?[B]I was about to send someone to find both of you.[/B]?

?[B]What?s going on?[/B]? Alexander inquired, instantly alerted to trouble by virtue of his speech that he was about to look for both of them.

?[B]I just got a message from one of your colleagues of the RPG who was looking for you two, there was an accident at Prometheo Labs.[/B]? He handed over the message to Alexander who looked it over.

?[B]I?m sure that you?ll want to head home to wait for news of your family lady Almagest,[/B]? He seemed a bit nervous. ?[B]As for what happened earlier, I?ve decided to assign you to someone else, even if you went against policy, it was most unprofessional for him to have made a scene over that in public, such a thing should have been handled privately instead of disgracefully in front of the patients.[/B]?

?[B]I?m sorry.[/B]? Alecia said quietly.

?[B]Don?t be.[/B]? He said kindly. ?[B]Just go and see to your family, I?ll make sure things are taken care of.[/B]? He turned and then headed back into the facility.

?[B]Alex?[/B]? She didn?t like the grim look on his face.

?[B]He?s right, we should head back to the Estate, at the time this message was sent, there was no word as to the safety of Leonhart or Macey.[/B]? He placed his arm around her shoulders at her tiny gasp of dismay.

?[B]What about your work?[/B]? Alecia finally asked as he started heading towards the train station. In answer Alexander just handed her the note, which clearly detailed that he was to take her home, seeing to her safety, excusing him from work for the rest of the day.

[Shy]

[size=1]OOC: I'm reposting this after Malkav's post to better help line-up the timeline.[/size]

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[size=1][indent]Jack and Morphia had been friendly enough, but Fauntleroy had no interest in entertaining them for a second straight day. He gathered his family and placed them back inside of the steamcar. Even without them it would be a very long day, as they had much to see and do.

Fauntleroy’s eyes widened as he stared out at a crowd of thousands, huddled together in front of the Magitech Corporation factor compound, The Celcius Complex. Many were carrying small banners and creating chaos as they attempted to storm the iron gates. Fauntleroy turned to Eva and commented on the scene before realizing that his voice, and all noise, was drowned out by the screaming and chanting of the mob. He felt Victoria Ann’s wrap around him tightly from behind, terrified from the claustrophobic scene around her. Had Fauntleroy known what was transpiring he never would have entered downtown with the children, but with the crowd blocking their path from behind it appeared that they had little choice but to move forward.

The Celcius Complex was a testament to the decadence of the Almagest family. More than a simple collection of factories, each building was a work of art, and contained a level of detail and luxury unheard of in New Czenoble. While this was intended to uphold a standard of quality for the future, the Celcius Complex was viewed as an anachronism to the poor factory workers who toiled within it each day. After all, who could appreciate the beauty of architecture when their children were starving?

An unruly member of the crowd began throwing things at the steamcar. A large rock crashed against Eva's window, startling her.

“[b]I think we’ve seen quite enough![/b]” She shouted above the voices of the crowd, “[b]This is getting out of control![/b]”

Fauntleroy nodded, and motioned towards the handful of Royal Police Guards separating his steamcar from the protesters. A single guard approached the vehicle.

“[b]Lord Almagest, are you alright?[/b]”

“[b]We have to turn around![/b]” Fauntleroy said, “[b]This is no place for the children![/b]”

The man nodded in agreement, “[b]Certainly, Lord Almagest. We’ll do everything we can to clear a--[/b]”

Suddenly the sound of sirens blared, interrupted by that of a small explosion coming from the gates of the Celcius Complex. The ground began to tremble, and screams filled the air as dozens of protesters finally managed to break through the gates. Eva panicked.

“[b]The factory![/b]” she exclaimed, “[b]They're trying to get into the factories![/b]”

Without thinking, the young woman stepped out of the steamcar to survey the damage. Fauntleroy called in vain for his sister to get back inside the vehicle. In an instant she was gone, her figure disappearing into the fire’s thick black smoke.

“[b]Lord Almagest![/b]” the guard commanded as he pounded on the steamcar's window, “[b]We must get you to safety at once![/b]”

Fauntleroy turned around, staring into the terrified eyes of Harrison and Victoria Ann, “[b]What about my sister?![/b]”

“[b]We will do everything we can to find her, but your safety is our first priority.[/b]”

Harrison looked outside to see several bloodied young workers, no older than him, being trampled from the frenzied mob. He quickly turned his head away, making sure to cover the eyes of Victoria Ann.

“[i]Dammit Eva…[/i]” Fauntleroy thought to himself as he turned his car away from the factory, “[i]I’m so sorry I have to do this…[/i]”

“[b]Very well, Captain! Get us out of here. Now![/b]”[/size][/indent]

[Sandy]

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[FONT="Georgia"]Gadget felt that his mouth had been gaping open ever since he saw the sunbathing High Czenoble from the window of the airship. He had never seen such beauty and such luxury. Yet he knew that by scraping the surface a bit he could see the rotten core of it all.

Rosengard was no different: awestriking from the outside, but he had only spent a few minutes there when he saw the disarray within.

Gadget watched as Macey paced the floor thinking what to do next when the door of Macey's quarters was suddenly opened.

[B]"Lady Macey, I heard... And who might this gentleman be?"[/B]

Gadget was face-to-face with a stern-looking elderly woman with piercing eyes. She reminded him of Mrs. Charcoal, the strict mistress of the orphanage he had grown in. He quickly glanced at Macey to solve the situation.

[B]"Dame Grimalkin!"[/B] Macey exclaimed, and rushed to embrace the older woman. [B]"It was so horrible! There were explosions, and I lost sight of father, and..."[/B]

To Gadget's amazement Macey burst into tears. She hadn't reacted like this with her sister, so Gadget suspected she was trying to divert this woman's attention. But Dame Grimalkin wasn't easily fooled. She didn't take her dark eyes away from Gadget, who must've looked highly suspicious with his pale visage and oversized scientist's uniform.

[B]"This... This is Gadget, my assistant at the laboratory"[/B], Macey explained, wiping her crocodile tears. [B]"He saved me, and took me back here. We'd do well to show him our hospitality, Dame Grimalkin."[/B]

[B]"Of course. Mr Gadget, I shall find a room for you as well as some proper clothes. I will have a hot bath prepared for both of you. When you're finished, come downstairs. We'll talk more then."[/B]

Gadget was truly intimidated by the old woman. It felt as if she had to deal with this sort of disasters every day.

When she was gone, Macey walked to him. [B]"Steer away from that woman, Gadget. She can make you blabber everything to her with just one look. I need you to be close to me for now, so don't risk it."[/B]

Gadget's mouth went agape again. Just what kind of a household had he entered in?[/FONT]

[Horendithas]

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Even with the help of the Royal Police Guard, progress in attempting to leave the area was almost nonexistent as the protesters continued to work themselves into a frenzy, becoming even more unruly as some of them took advantage of their sheer numbers to block and interfere with any carriages or steamcars attempting to leave the area.

"[B]What about Aunt Eva?"[/B] Victoria said in a voice near to tears. "[B]We have to find her![/B]"

"[B]The Royal Police Guard will take care of her.[/B]" Fauntleroy attempted to reassure her even as he swore under his breath when it became apparent with the chaos created by the protests; it would take hours if not longer for the Royal Police Guard to clear the streets of the mess of steamcars and carriages that had been abandoned in favor of safety.

As Fauntleroy brought the car to a halt at the sight of several abandoned steamcars blocking the road, one of the Guards approached, knocking on the window to get him to lower it.

"[B]Lord Almagest![/B]" He shouted to be heard over the mob of people as they continued to surge around the stopped car, chanting in loud voices, demanding change.

"[B]Can't you get those steamcars out of the way?[/B]" Fauntleroy shouted back, impatient to get the children to safety.

"[B]I'm sorry sir, but there aren't enough of us.[/B]"

Harrison winced as a handful of stones hit the side of the car before one of the other Guards intervened, pushing the protesters away. It did not stop them from simply moving to tear apart the steamcars that had been abandoned on the street. It was clear that the protesters were working themselves into a frenzy.

"[B]Sir! It's better if we get you out of here! There aren't enough of us to ensure your safety![/B]"

Fauntleroy just looked back at Harrison and Victoria Ann again before letting out a sigh and then grabbing his camera he motioned for the two of them to get out on the side closest to the buildings. With a look of regret towards his steamcar he turned and nodded to the Royal Police Guard as he grabbed Victoria Ann's hand when she emerged from the car, keeping her close.

"[B]Lead the way.[/B]" He said once Harrison and Victoria Ann were ready.

Harrison just kept quiet, sticking close to Fauntleroy and Victoria Ann as the Royal Police Guard created a path for them though the angry mob. Without the steamcar their progress was much quicker though far more intimidating as the occasional jeer or angry word was sent their way. Harrison just tightened his grip on the hilt of his sword, even if he lacked the training that a member of the RPG did, it still made him feel just a tiny bit less afraid.

"[B]Just a little further Lord Almagest.[/B]" The captain said. "[B]There should be more guards on patrol at the next street over.[/B]"

Before Fauntleroy could say anything in response a rush of protesters came around the corner, moving at a run, slamming into the group. Forcing them apart before the Royal Police Guard could react. Tearing both Victoria Ann and Harrison from his side.

"[B]Victoria! Harrison![/B]" Fauntleroy yelled as he tried to pry his way free of the crowd as the sheer numbers dragged him further away from the two.

Harrison could hear Victoria's screams as she struggled to get free of the press of people. In a panic he started hitting and kicking anyone in range as he fought to get over to where he could see the top of her head. A moment later he managed to catch her from behind and pull her away from the press of people until he had both of them up against one of doorways into a building.

Desperately he shoved her back into the tiny recess and then braced himself against the push of people that threatened to pull him away. Then just as suddenly as it had started, it was over as the rush was past them. He looked around, but other than more protesters, there was no sign of Fauntleroy or the Royal Police Guard.

"[B]Now what do we do?[/B]" Victoria Ann finally asked timidly as she continued to hide behind Harrison. It was obvious that she was doing her best to not cry.

Harrison looked around at the unfriendly faces around them, with their fancier clothing, it was clear they were not from New Czenoble and he got the impression that sticking around or even trying to find the others would be a mistake.

He took her hand in his, trying to be brave instead of showing just how afraid he felt. "[B]We look for the closest train or air transport station. Once they know who we are, they'll take us back home.[/B]" He hunched down until he was facing her.

"[B]I need you to stay close to me, okay?[/B]"

Victoria Ann nodded.

Harrison stood back up and then keeping a tight grip on her hand, he started heading away from all the fuss, looking for any signs that indicated where a train or air station was. As well as keeping an eye out for the Royal Police Guard.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

[CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/catherinesaraavatar.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER]
Catherine just looked on sadly at Prometheo Labs as the police force did their best to quell the fires and attempt to hunt for survivors. Had it only been last night that she had hosted a gala in honor of her brother's birthday? Somehow, standing there, wondering just what had gone wrong made the events of last night seem like an eternity ago. She could only hope that both Leonhart and Macey were unharmed. After awhile she shook her head and placed her right hand on Daedalus's arm, indicating that she desired to speak to him as soon as he was done talking with one of the member's of the police force who was going over their progress so far.

"[B]I think it's best if I return to Rosengard Daedalus.[/B]" Catherine said once he gave her his attention. "[B]I can't do anything here and I'm quite sure that there is a certain amount of confusion back home.[/B]"

"[B]You're right, let me talk to the police a bit and then we'll head back.[/B]"

Catherine shook her head. "[B]There's no need for you to return as well, I'd feel better if you stayed and sent us word the moment you find out what happened.[/B]" She smiled sadly, squeezing his arm gently before letting go.

"[B]The Royal Police Guard have offered to escort me to where your airship is docked. Once the pilot has taken me back to Rosengard I'll have him return here.[/B]"

Daedalus nodded. "[B]All right.[/B]"

Catherine gave him a half smile, a gentle hug and a soft whisper to take care and then she turned and left, going with the guard who in no time had her safely delivered to the aerodrome.

"[B]Make sure you keep my brother safe.[/B]" She said to the guard as they prepared to leave.

"[B]Yes ma'am.[/B]" The closet one said with a nod and then he was gone.

Catherine turned her attention to the pilot of Daedalus's personal airship. "[B]I need you to take me to Rosengard and then come back here to pick up Daedalus once he's ready to return.[/B]"

"[B]Understood.[/B]" He nodded and then as they headed for the small ship. "[B]Have you heard any news about Leonhart or Macey?[/B]"

"[B]I'm afraid not.[/B]" Catherine said as she climbed up the small steps into the ship, heading towards the main control room as she was interested in seeing the city from the air. A moment later the pilot joined her, saying nothing as he readied the ship and then took to the air.

"[B]I hope they find them.[/B]" He finally said as the damage became apparent, for it was clear from the air, that it was far more extensive than it had looked from a ground view. The building was in all honesty, a mess as black clouds of smoke were still spilling into the air.

Catherine was glad when the view of the labs was lost as the ship turned to make it's way up the mountainside. And though the view was as beautiful as ever, with the palace higher up and High Czenoble shining in the sun as she always did. It couldn't quite still the heavy weight resting on her heart at that moment.

[Cyriel]

[center][IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/morphiaavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/jackavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/ladybavariaavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/victoriaann-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/center][FONT="Franklin Gothic Medium"][COLOR="Indigo"]“So what’s the Proletariat?” asked Morphia. Jack had grown tired of standing on his feet and took Morphia with him into a local inn where they ordered drinks.

“It’s another word for working class. They make up about eighty five percent of New Czenoble. Most of everyone else is middle class. The upper class lives mostly on the hill, above the pollution.” replied Jack. He took a swig of ale. He used to come to this inn all the time for drinks, and was surprised that it was still standing after all these years.

“Why don’t they move up to High Czenoble then? There’s plenty of room.”

“They can’t. Not only can’t they afford it, but big wigs like our brother-in-law make sure they don’t come up there. The last thing they want is to see they’re high society ruined by the filthy poor.”

“Jack, it can’t be that simple, can it? You can’t just blame the prejudices of others for them not being able to do more with their lives. I’m sure if they wanted it bad enough, they could fix this.”

“They would. But all of the politicians are either Aristocrats or upper middle class. They have little to no representation. Also, because we’re under a king, they can never hope to be appointed to any position of power. What king wants peasants on his court?”

“Jack, that’s horrible. Someone should do something.”

“Who can do anything? Unless they find it profitable, then most people in our class won’t even lift a finger for the poor. Welcome to the rest of the world.”

Morphia looked down at her tankard of ale. She picked it up and sipped from it, wincing slightly from the taste. It was absolutely terrible, but so fun to drink. The two of them sat rather casually as the people around them danced to music and sang. It was all so new to Morphia, who by now was nodding her head in tune to the music. She closed her eyes and took another sip from the ale. The day looked like it would turn out rather well.
Suddenly she felt a strong hand strike her to the floor and a loud boom. She opened her eyes, only to find shards of glass and splinters of wood raining down. The boom rendered her deaf, but she could see everyone screaming and rushing to get outside. Jack picked her up and dragged her outside into the crowded street as he yelled in her ear, but she couldn’t hear a thing. There was smoke and dust everywhere, and the whole incident seemed surreal. As they moved outside, the sound returned to her and she could hear the screams of the people.

"Jack, what's happening?" she asked, but he didn’t hear her over all the chaos. They continued running through the street, Jack holding tightly onto Morphia's wrists, hurting her. "Jack!"

Suddenly he spotted something in the midst of the confusion, and turned to her, “Morphia, stay here!” He let go of her hand before she could respond, disappearing into the crowd.

"Jack! Don't leave me!" she cried, panic rising up, but she had already lost sight of him.

A cold sinking feeling settled in as she turned every which way to try and find him, but to no avail. Her sight grew a little blurry, and the crowd disappeared.
[INDENT][i]The cobblestone street was replaced by hardwood floors, and the sky by a vaulted ceiling. Across the vaulted ceiling hung airships, some of which actually buzzed around her head. She was 12 again, and alone, back in Jack's room. The bed was perfectly made, and the furniture dusted. Morphia sat down in a chair facing the window with a little bag hanging off of one of the arms. She had overheard his plans to leave, and was waiting for him, sure that he wouldn’t leave her behind. The windows of his room gave full views of the paths leading to and from the main estate, and she watched them in anticipation…
It was getting late, and her eyes were getting heavy. She heard light steps outside of the door, and knew what it meant. The door swung open and the soft footsteps came closer. Morphia sat perfectly still until she felt a soft slender hand rest on her shoulder. She had resolved hours ago that if it came to this, she wasn't going to cry. "He's not coming, is he?" she asked quietly.

"No, dearest. He's not." said a soft female voice from behind her. "I'm sorry dearest. Can I get you anything before you go to bed?"

"No Bavaria, I'll be fine." Morphia stood and walked away, her eyes dry and empty.[/i][/INDENT]

Suddenly Jack’s hand burst through the memory, and the streets were once again cobblestone. Images of walls and furniture became people, and he held a hand out for Morphia. She reached out for her brother, almost shocked to see him again. As his hand closed around her wrist, she suddenly became aware of her surroundings. In Jack's other hand was a young boy; Morphia recognized him instantly as the rebellious Harrison, who was doing all he could to fight off Jack’s grip. On Jack's back was a little girl, Victoria Ann, who seemed she was having the ride of her life.

“You found the children! But where are Eva and Fauntleroy?” she asked immediately. Jack only shook his head and pulled her along the street. The only choice they had was to get back to the air docks.[/COLOR][/FONT]

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][center][IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/morphiaavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/jackavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c135/Minneymin/victoriaann-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/center]
Victoria Ann was doing exactly as Harrison had instructed her, staying close and holding on to his hand tightly. Everywhere they went there were more people who were heading towards the commotion that they were attempting to leave behind. It wasn't too hard to work their way through the ebb and flow of the crowds though it was a bit frightening as their faces were far from friendly and many of them rudely brushed them aside whenever Harrison wasn't quick enough to move out of the way.

"[B]Those people are so rude![/B]" Victoria Ann fumed after the fourth group of people had shoved them aside. As frightened as she was by all that had happened, she was also equally fascinated and curious about where they were, even if the city was nothing like High Czenoble. Never had she seen so many plain buildings nor poorly dressed people.

"[B]Harrison![/B]" She whined when he said nothing. "[B]I want to find Aunt Eva and Uncle Fonty![/B]" But Harrison's grip on her hand just tightened a bit causing her to tug on him and demand an answer.

"[B]We can't Victoria,[/B]" He finally explained, calling her by name instead of his usual nickname of pest that he always used. "[B]Neither one of us are familiar with New Czenoble.[/B]" Harrison stopped at the sight of even more of a fuss going on in the street in front of them.

Victoria was wondering how they were going to get through the tightly packed group of people when a huge boom sounded. She barely saw smoke when something invisible shoved both her and Harrison to the street. She barely had time to realize that people were screaming and running around in a panic when Harrison picked her up, moving over and attempting to stay along the front of the buildings to get clear of the panicking people.

He didn't get far before yet another group slammed into them, this time sending both of them sprawling. Victoria didn't even have a chance to react when this time strong hands hoisted her into the air. For the briefest second she panicked until she realized that the one who had picked her up was the same person that Fonty had been talking to earlier, the one who had an airship.

A quick word from him to hang on as he shifted her to his back and then once she nodded and had her arms wrapped around his neck he started pushing and shoving people aside to get to Harrison who was struggling to get up among the rush of people. A moment later he grabbed the back of Harrison's shirt firmly, pulling him to his feet and then ignoring his protests and attempts to pull free, he took both of them back over to the woman who had been with him earlier as well.

“[B][I]You found the children! But where are Eva and Fauntleroy?[/I][/B]”

As if realizing who he was with Harrison finally quit struggling a bit. "[B]Would you let go already?[/B]" He snarled. [B]"Eva got out of the steamcar and vanished when the first explosion happened. The Royal Police Guard said they would look for her so Fonty was trying to take us back home, but when we had to go by foot, we ended up forced apart.[/B]"

"[B]Jack?[/B]"

"[B]Come on.[/B]" Jack motioned to Morphia as he started heading down the street. "[B]We can figure out where the others are later, but for now, it would be best to get the two of them back to High Czenoble.[/B]"

"[B]But...[/B]" Victoria Ann started to object.

"[B]This is no place for children.[/B]" Jack cut her off. "[B]I don't know what Fauntleroy was thinking by bringing the two of you along.[/B]"

Harrison quit struggling altogether, letting Jack simply steer them along since he seemed to know the place as he took advantage of back and side streets to quickly head in the direction of the Aerodrome.

"[B]He didn't.[/B]" Harrison finally spoke up, wincing when another group of people pushed past them only Jack and Morphia merely forced their way through the group.

"[B]What do you mean?[/B]" Morphia asked when Harrison did not continue.

"[B]We sneaked into Uncle Fonty's steamcar during the party last night.[/B]" Victoria Ann volunteered. "[B]We fell asleep and didn't wake up until Fonty was already here.[/B]"

Harrison looked offended when Jack laughed though what he would have said was cut off as they approached the Aerodrome and the area where Jack's airship was docked.

"[B]Is that your airship?[/B]" Victoria Ann squealed in excitement at the sight of the graceful airship that was carefully tied to the dock.

"[B]That she is.[/B]" Jack replied.

Excited, Victoria Ann let go, nearly causing Jack to fall over as she got free and ran over to check it out, looking back only long enough to make sure the others were coming along as well.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Sandy]

[center][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gadgetavatar.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/maceyellen-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/catherinesaraavatar.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alexanderedward-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alecialeanna-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/damegrimalkinavatar.jpg[/IMG][/center]
[FONT="Georgia"]
[RIGHT][B]Missing You[/B][/RIGHT]

Looking himself in the mirror, Gadget hardly recognized who was staring back at him. never had he worn such fancy clothes. His jacket was dark green velvet, and his shirt pure white linen. He also had dark brown trousers and a white scarf that he left hanging on the chair where the servants had left his new clothes, because he had no idea how to tie it properly.

He combed back his damp hair, and stepped out of the guest room that was directly opposite of Macey's - per her request. Or to better say it, demand.

Gadget walked down the hall until he came to the grand staircase. He stopped to gawk at the mural painted on the wall. It presented an old oak. There were dozens of portraits hanged on top of the mural, and it took Gadget a while to realize that he was looking at a Family Tree. After searching for a while, he could spot Macey from among the portraits, and her older sister that he had met earlier.

[B]"You are looking at my mighty family"[/B], Macey's voice suddenly said behind him. Gadget swung around. He instantly noticed that Macey had changed her dress - to another black one, but still - and wore her hair differently. She was quite an astonishing sight to behold.

[B]"Don't worry, you probably won't meet even half of those people on the wall. Did you like your room?"[/B] she inquired. [B]"My ex-husband used to sleep there when we were still engaged. He of course snuck into my room every night... Oh, excuse me. I still don't remember that you just met me. I've grown accustomed to your face over this past month."[/B]

Macey gave him a weird look that Gadget didn't recognize. Then she motioned downstairs. [B]"Shall we go, then?"[/B]

She took him to the dining hall that had a long and sturdy table with dozens of seats around it. Several of them were occupied with who must've been Macey's family members. Gadget saw Dame Grimalkin standing near the opposite wall, next to a seated elderly woman in pink. The woman stood up as soon as she saw them, and rushed to embrace Macey.

[B]"Oh, my Macey! I'm so relieved you're alright!"[/B] the woman sobbed against her shoulder.

[B]"Yes, Aunt Catherine. Me and my assistant here managed to escape through a secret tunnel."[/B]

An expecting silence fell to the room. Macey shook her head.

[B]"No, I don't know what happened to Father."[/B]

The silence broke, and people's eyes were starting to gather on Gadget. To his relief, a young man wearing the Police Guard's dark uniform stepped into the room.

[B]"Alexander!"[/B] a young blonde woman, not much older than Gadget, stood up and rushed by the man's side. [B]"Did you find anything out?"[/B]

[B]"Not much, my love, I'm afraid. The report says that they couldn't find Sir Almagest's body in the ruins"[/B], the guard said.

[B]"But that means we still have hope, right?"[/B] the older woman called Catherine asked. The look in her eyes was almost begging.

[B]"I don't know how to say this... But we have reason to believe that this incident is linked to the recent kidnappings of prominent alchemists. Professor Prometheo has gone missing, too."[/B]

[center][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/almagest-andmark.png[/IMG]
Landmark 03[/center][/FONT]

[Raiha]

[RIGHT][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gadgetavatar.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/maceyellen-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/catherinesaraavatar.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alexanderedward-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/RIGHT]

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]"I suppose I wasn't taken because I wasn't thrown in the same area as the others were by the explosion."

"I'm sure they would've tried to claim you as well, had you not recovered and gone to ground so quickly."

[i]Macey frowned as she read the notice from the Sergeant. She didn't like him in the least, but she didn't doubt his loyalty to the nobility. Lady Catherine's expression was drawn and frightened. At least she wasn't an alchemist herself. Macey looked up again from the note.[/i]

"I suppose someone should send a message to the good Sergeant, informing him of my safe return to Rosengard."

[i]Gadget looked up at his new lady, watching her expressions change with the conversation. Macey felt exasperated with her family, but at the same time pleased with their concern. It was like they expected her to be able to find her father after a deafening explosion so loud it had rendered her deaf for more than a few seconds. It was so bright, she'd barely been able to find her way down the halls until she'd put out her fingers and began feeling for the various pictures and posters she and her fellow scientists had put up on the walls. At least it was something different from the same old tired lines about Vincent, and the Archard family, and the dishonor and shame. With a sigh, she stood and bid Gadget to stand as well. The boy jumped up with alacrity, as if he was used to obeying Macey's non verbal signals.

Aunt Catherine watched her carefully. She looked even more pale than usual, the veins of purple and blue blood under her skin appearing like spider's threads. Gadget next to her looked equally pale. Perhaps they both needed rest. She stood as well with a gentle smile on her face.[/i]

"You look positively worn out Macey. Perhaps you need to go lie down for a few moments."

"Sound advice Auntie, I'll be up again for dinner."

[i]She managed to take a few steps away from the table, then felt her knees buckling under her. Using the last of her presence of mind before the darkness overtook her completely, she shoved her chair out of her way and crumpled to the floor, listening to her family's cries and gasps of shock echo in her ears like the calling of birds. The last thing she saw was Gadget leaning over her, his expression frightened.

Alexander had already crossed the room in long strides, gently nudging a crying Gadget aside as he picked up Macey's prone form.[/i]

"Macey's fine. She's just completely exhausted. You must be tired as well."

"Take them both to bed Alexander. I'll have someone send up some tea in a few hours."

[i]In a state of semi-awareness and half darkness, Macey watched as Gadget trotted behind Alexander, afraid his mistress would never awaken again. She felt her eyelids growing heavy, and let them close again. Just a few minutes, and she'd be alright.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR]

[Shy]

[size=1][center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/charlesavatar.jpg[/img][/center]

[indent]Fauntleroy ran through the streets of New Czenoble, desperately hoping to find his family. Eva was old enough to take care of herself, but a city in turmoil was no place for the children. He had considered sending a wire to Rosengard for help, but knew it would only cause more trouble than anything else. Fauntleroy would be in more than enough trouble from taking Harrison and Victoria Ann out of High Czenoble, let alone losing them. Worse yet, the Royal Police Guard seemed too overwhelmed to provide any real help. They were able to escort him out of the carnage, but there was no guarantee they would be able to do the same for anyone else.

He turned his attention towards the Artemis Airship Station. If his family had any brains at all they would try to make their way to Rosengard themselves, but there was no guarantee they would make it there safely. The Royal Police Guard were nowhere to be seen as the city descended further and further into chaos. He made a point of removing his coat and leaving it on the street behind him. [I]With so many looters out there,[/I] Fauntleroy thought to himself, [I]My sense of fashion is going to get me killed![/I]

The young man turned a corner to discover another large crowd formed in front of the station. Hundreds of families were camped out in front of the airships, each hoping to escape the turmoil around them. In the mob he recognized Charles, Bertram and Pearl, waiting in line to purchase tickets. Fauntleroy immediately pushed his way through the line to greet them.

“[b]Fauntleroy![/b]” Charles exclaimed, “[b]You are the last person I expected to see down here.[/b]”

“[b]Uncle Fonty![/b]” Pearl said with a laugh as she latched onto Fauntleroy’s leg.

"[b]Yes, yes.[/b]" Fauntleroy patted his niece on the head, “[b] Charles, have you seen Eva, or Harrison or Victoria Ann at all today?[/b]”

“[b]You mean they’re in New Czenoble? Today!?[/b]” he asked, “[b]I can’t say that I have. I certainly hope they’re alright.[/b]”

“[b]They seem to have gotten lost in the crowd. If you see them, please make sure they make it back to Rosengard! Beatriste would kill me if something were to happen…[/b]”

“[b]I imagine she’s more occupied with the accident downtown.[/b]”

“[b]You mean the factories? Yes, they’re in ruins from that cursed rally. We’ll be lucky if they don’t destroy all of New Czenoble along with it.[/b]”

“[b]No-- not the factories, the-- ufgh![/b]” Charles found himself interrupted with a forceful shove from behind. He turned around to discover several large men and women, noticeably upset at his group.

“[b]There ain’t no cutting in this line![/b]” An older woman screamed, “[b]Get yerself in the back with the rest of ‘em![/b]”

Fauntleroy rolled his eyes, “[b]I’m merely trying to hold a conversation, ma’am. Please don’t be so forceful![/b]”

It was too late. Afraid that Fauntleroy was trying to work his way towards the front of the line, complete strangers began pulling him away by the collar. Charles could only watch, afraid of what the mob might do to him and his children should they interfere.

“[b]I’ll -keff! Speak to you later then![/b]” Fauntleroy said as he being carried away.

“[b]Goodbye, Uncle Fonty![/b]” Little Pearl said cheerfully as she waved.

The crowd was kind enough not to trample Fauntleroy as he left the station, but the same could not be said for his camera bag. In a moment his new camera was crushed under the weight of a handful of young workers. He opened the bag, and discovered that only his mother’s old wooden camera remained unscathed.

"[b]...Just my luck.[/b]"

With a heavy sigh he withdrew the device and decided to head back towards the Celcius Complex to look for the others.[/size][/indent]