RPG The Lottery

[Darren]

[B][CENTER][SIZE="4"][FONT="Book Antiqua"]The Lottery[/FONT][/SIZE]

[SIZE="3"][FONT="Impact"]Part 1: The Selection[/FONT][/SIZE][/CENTER][/B]

[SIZE="1"][FONT="Book Antiqua"]Henry awoke rather early on Sunday evening. Even more so than usual, given the demanding military presence. He started breakfast for his unwelcome guests, figuring that they would know how to fix themselves a plate on their own. Afterwards he headed outside to complete his morning chores.

The village of Udaya was certainly not one of the smallest villages in the GNC, but due to the flux of arrivals from past citizens, it seemed like a circus had gone through town. Many of the older citizens set up camp in small tents just outside the building where the lottery was to be held and the smell of camp fire and cooked meat still lingered in the early morning air. Henry sighed. The countdown had begun. Only 24 hours until the decision was mad. Seven of these villagers were going to be chosen and taken from their families forever across the wall.

Henry couldn't even imagine what was over the wall. He had some hope that perhaps his father was wrong and it really can't be anything bad. He tried to convince himself of this at night when he tossed and turned in bed. [I]'why would the GNC want to hide something from the villages unless it was really bad?'[/I] He would constantly mull over that very question as he worked for his grandpa. The question was really, why would the government want hide anything at all?

Just as he expected, the hens didn't lay any eggs, therefor securing his fears that he and his grandfather wouldn't eat tomorrow. At least the military personnel were moving out of their hosts' homes after breakfast. But still, the fact that the Mathys farm had been struggling only led to a shortage of food later on. He finally decided to visit his neighbors and ask them from some bread.

The Stanleys were a small, but thriving family of bakers. They had two daughters, and a son. Henry was actually arranged to marry the eldest daughter Violet just last year before her father was taken from by the lottery. Due to the stress it put on the Stanleys and the fact that Henry needed to focus on taking care of his grandfather, they postponed it. Henry still maintained a steady relationship with Violet, and he was good friends with the boy, James.

As Henry approached their small shop, he could smell the freshly baked bread and knew that they were awake. He knocked twice before promptly letting himself in.

[B]"HENRY!"[/B] squealed the youngest daughter, Delilah. She swung her arms around his neck, embracing him the biggest bear hug a six year old could give until her mother reminded her of proper manners for a young lady. She sighed and ran off into the back room.

[B]"Well hello Mr. Mathys,"[/B] Meredith was wearing her usual contagious smile. It actually surprised Henry how well the Stanleys were doing considering that they had only been without Mr. Stanley for a year. [B]"What can I do for you?"[/B] she asked, handing him a freshly baked roll from the oven.

Henry was sullen, despite Meredith's demeanor. He hated asking for favors. [B]I know I said this wouldn't happen again, but the hens... They're not--"[/B]

[B]"Don't you worry about it, son. I told you last time that if you ever need anything, don't feel bad to ask. You know, we've all taken a liking to you and your grandpa Bill. We would be glad to give you anything you need."[/B]

He blushed at such blatant forwardness from her. She really was almost like a second mother. [B]"Thank you,"[/B] he said, not raising his eyes to meet her. He felt ashamed for asking, but this is what he had to do in order to get by. [B]"I think just a loaf of bread should do it."[/B]

[B]"Anything you want, darling."[/B] She wrapped up a fresh loaf of bread and handed it to him. Before he left, she raised his chin, so he could look her in the eyes. Her hands were coated in a layer of flour. [B]"Don't you worry about it. You're family will get through this."[/B]

He smiled at her and turned to leave, but before he reached the door, Delilah had burst back into the room with the rest of the children. Rose, (16) James, (19) and Violet. (22) They all greeted him with care and then Violet offered to escort him back to his house. She wanted to see how his grandfather was doing anyway.

The sun was beginning to rise over the horizon, forming a perfect arch on the east side of the village. An obvious outline laid in the distance forming the ominous wall that seven winners would pass through very soon.

[B]"Are you excited?"[/B] Violet chimed in when she noticed that Henry was quiet. [B]"About the festival, that is?"[/B] She knew of Henry's distaste for discussing the lottery.

[B]"I suppose, but it only means that we're closer to the lottery."[/B] He addressed the issue anyway. He didn't like hiding his feelings from Violet. He felt like she could handle any emotion that he presented. Violet understood this.

[B]"This year, we're setting up a lotto-wheel, where you can win all sorts of pastries and baked goods from our store. You and your grandpa should come by when you get the chance. I'll be working it with Mother most of the day."[/B]

[B]"I'll do that."[/B] He quickly replied, although they both knew it wouldn't be for long. In Bill's current state of health, Henry had to spend most of his time taking care of him, and the other hours were spent worrying about how he was doing while Henry was away. Violet and Henry both cherished the little time they could spend together. They only needed to wait a bit longer until they could finally be together.

By the time Violet had said hi to Bill and began leaving, the GNC troops had made their way out of the house. (Without being too quiet) They gave him compliments for the good breakfast, which he thanked them for with a fake grin. The sun was finally fully risen when she left Henry alone with his grandpa, but she promised to see him soon. (After seeing his grandfather, Violet understood that it would be unlikely for Henry to visit her during the festival.

[B]"Tell your mom I said thanks for the bread."[/B]

[B]"She already knows,"[/B] she replied, mockingly, [B]"But I'll have you know that I work there as well."[/B]

[B]"I apologize. Thank you for the bread, Violet."[/B]

[B]"You're very welcome, Mr. Mathys."[/B] and then she left Henry with only his thoughts and anxiety of what was to come.[/FONT][/SIZE]

[Lunar]

[COLOR="Indigo"]Shana woke up in a daze. The night before was really busy. She lept up and got dressed in her usual jeans and t-shirt and walked out to the front counter. "Crap. I hate being a cook." she mumbled as she threw on her apron.
"Hurry up with that fish, Shana!" her boss yelled.
"Yeah, yeah, I'm coming!" Shana said and mumbled "fathead."
Befoer she knew it, it was lunch time. She moved to her usual table sat in her usal chair and unwrapped her sandwhich. She looked outside as she chewed slowly. Yunia was beautiful. The sun shone overhead and the birds sang as though there was no problem in the world. But Shana knew better. Her mother was gone and her dad was dead. The military was taking over their lives, and only she really paid attention to it. Suddenly, a voice broke into her thoughts. "Shana."
Shana lept up and retied her apron. "Calm down, girl! Someone here wants to talk to you." A young man walked out behind the shelf which held the pastries.
"Shana Brenes?" he said.
"Yes." Shana said, giving him a look of suspiscion.
"I've come here to remind you that the annual lottery is coming up soon. Why, I believe it's the day after tommorow."
Shana just nodded. "I understand."
Apparently, the man wasn't lilking Shana's attitude. "Well, I want you to know that your chances of winning are increased this year and-"
"I know that." Shana was getting annoyed.
The man had a look of anger on his face and then simply nodded, turned on his heel and walked away. Little did she know that this year, the lottery was coming in her favor.[/COLOR]

[Drizzt Do'urden]

"Jason, Jason damnit get up!" Jason sat up in bed, from his father's tone of voice he'd overslept again. The anticipation of this years Lottery celebration had kept him up all night. Of course, not so much the thought of winning, Jason had figured his chances and though there were a limited number of people in Northwatch. The tradition was, every year you received the number of years you were born as entries. He was one of the youngest in the villiage, so that already didn't make his odds favorable.

He enjoyed the military procession that pre-empted the ceremony. It was so different than in previous villiages he'd lived in. Not to say it was better, just different. That was one thing Jason loved was things out of the ordinary, that's one of the things he loved about his job. Everyday he got to go outside the city gates into the field gate, he wished he could get authorization to leave the city completly but he learned a long time ago he'd have to settle for things inside the gate. That would be the occasional wondering arctic predator looking for an easy meal.

That's why Jason and his father did, they hunted down those nasty wolves, bears, and other creatures that wondered from their home looking for the Guinia Yak. They were genetically altered over a decade ago, mixed with Moose and something else to make them stand over 8 feet tall and have the best tasting/tender meat you could ever eat.

Jason threw on his clothes, furs made from the hides of the same animals he protected. And made his way with his father to the armory, since civilians weren't allowed to carry weapons. They had to leave their bows and knives at the entrance to the city gates in the hands of official military personnel.

Upon arriving Jason's father noticed something was out of the ordinary. "That's odd, the gates are closed. Hmm, I'll be right back." Jason's father dissapeared into the armory, a few moments later he immerged with the biggest smile on his face. "Well son, looks like we get one of those Day off things Grandpa told you about. The military is taking over, I guess this years lottery is supposed to be something special. A high ranking military official is going to address the city and draw the numbers herself."

Jason was elated, he ran right home and hoped into bed. "festivel doesn't start for a few more hours. I'm gonna do the one thing that I haven't done since I was little. Sleep in" Jason closed his eys and drifted off, with a new outlook on the "simple" things in life.

[P.J. McKrafty]

[COLOR=navy][FONT=Arial]The walk back from the fields is my second favorite part of the day[/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Arial],[COLOR=navy] the first being dinner. I spend my mornings working in the shop crafting my fabrics and my afternoons in the fields minding the flock. The moment the sun started to fade into crimson I knew that it was time to go home. After rounding the flock up into it's pen with the help of the dogs I started my trek across the now emptying fields that made up the outside of Orsys.

The knee high grass scratched against my trousers as I waded through it. Every now and again the tail of Cat would appear over top the grass behind me lolling lazily side to side. The aptly named Cat was a stray cat that took a particular liking to me when I would sneak him into the shed at my shop during last winter. Since then he has been accompanying me during my daily routines. He was a rather rugged looking cat covered in mismatched shades of brown, red, and black. He slept outside of the house seeing as Shali never warmed up too him and shoos him off every time she sees him. But that doesn't keep him from waiting for me in the morning to escort me to the shop and to the fields afterward.

I lazily picked at the leftover bread from the lunch that Shali always packs me, and washed it down with the remains of the water in my flask I take with me to the field. The house came into view and Cat raced ahead of me toward the gate. He jumped up onto the fence and proceeded to pace up and down the length of it until I caught up with him and let myself through the gate. Cat then jumped down and ran over to the old blanket I leave out for him. He waited patiently for me to toss him the last of the bread I save for him and go inside the house.

Shali had already set the table up and was sitting quietly waiting for me. The door wheezed shut and the locks hissed as I slid them into place. The soldiers seem to over look the smaller houses in the area so it was just me and Shali staying here. A small smile appeared on her face when she saw me and she stood up to greet me. I grabbed her and gave her a kiss before reaching into my vest and retrieving the Loosestrife I had picked on the way home.

[B]"Do you think a flower will make me forget that you are late?"[/B] She asked as she rolled it in her fingers.

[B]"I can always hope can't I?"[/B] I replied with a chuckle as I leaded down and pecked her on the cheek before going and pulling her seat out.

[B]"How was your day?"[/B] she asked sitting down.

[B]"The soldiers stopped by and told the owners that the shop would be closed for tomorrow for the festival, but other than that nothing out of the usual. My parents say Hello."[/B]

[B]"The same could be said about my day."[/B] An awkward silence fell over the table which was only accentuated by the sounds of me tearing into my food in the usual manner. I knew something was on her mind but I wasn't about to pressure it out of her.

We finished up dinner and cleaned up before getting ready for bed that night. We settled into bed and I extinguished the last candle, leaving only the dim orange glow filtering through the cracked door from the fireplace. I sat in the dark staring at thee ceiling for a moment before rolling over and resting my arm over Shali's waist. She rustled and clasped my and in hers.

[B]"Are you okay?"[/B] I whispered in her ear.

She paused so long that I almost dismissed it when she whispered back. [B]"Yes."[/B]

I didn't believe her but before I could think about it longer the exhaustion from my work caught up with me. The blackness of the room soon enveloped me and I fell sound asleep.[/COLOR][/FONT]

[Astdis]

[COLOR="Navy"]* slide slide THUNK… slide slide THUNK… slide slide THUNK… slide*
[B]"Miss?"[/B]

Bailey wiped sweat from her forehead with the sleeve of her dress and tucked a stray hair behind her ear. *THUNK* She buried the cleaver into the counter.
[B]“Yes?”[/B]

The soldier in front of her looked startled and his focus remained on the knife handle in her hand.

[B]“Can I help you?”[/B] she inquired, attempting to keep irritation out of her voice.

The soldier shook himself [B]“Yes, where is the food in this house? We expect to be provided for during our stay and…”[/B]

[B]“There’s food in the kitchen, around back. Our kitchens aren’t in the normal place due to the meat stores.”[/B]

[B]“Right. Fine then.” [/B]His eyes wondered briefly to her hand again, then he turned and walked out of the room.

Bailey rolled her eyes letting her gaze pause on the ceiling. She had been roughly woken that morning by the sound of soldiers slamming doors and talking loudly. Apparently her uncle too had boarders. They had arrived in Mydswep yesterday and had filled the bar down the road at night which made it impossible for her to enjoy an evening with her family as she could feel the younger men ogling her. It was a tradition for her family, since so many had been taken from them the night before the lottery they all went out to the bar, had a good meal and drink and talked into the morning. It was their own celebration because at that moment, they were all together which might change next day.

Bailey shook herself and looked down at the counter. She still had four more steaks to carve before she could go home and help her mother with the preparations. Her mother always baked things for the festival, there was no official bakery in town, the wives all baked for their families and swapped goods at the market.

When she finished her work, she hung her bloodied apron on a peg and shouted out the back of the store for her uncle to come take over. He was sitting with a group of older men smoking pipes and playing cards.

[B]“Oy Mitch, seems you’re needed”[/B] one of the them said nudging her uncle who’d had his back to her.
He turned and smiled, setting down his cards. [B]“Alight boys, looks like I’m done for today.”[/B]

One of the men leaned toward the group [B]“That girl is the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen. Such a pitty she never married.”[/B]

Bailey grinned [B]“I can hear ya Mr. Reilly. You better watch yourself or I’ll tell the misses on you.” [/B]

The men grinned sheepishly at her and her uncle ushered her into the shop.

[B]“You’d best be getting home, festival will be starting soon.”[/B]

She nodded and went out onto the street. Everywhere people had hung banners and streamers. Children ran by with a dog yipping at their heals clutching at brightly colored balloons. The town was covered by a perfect blue sky. Bailey watched the children until the turned the corner out of sight. She sighed, [I]the festival would be starting soon[/I]…[/COLOR]

[Orcus]

[FONT="Bookman Old Style"][B]?Ey! Ey you! You wanna get us something to drink??[/B] Virgil looked up quizzically from his work, and noting the soldiers speaking to Cain, had his suspicions confirmed. The soldiers had been in his, or rather Cain?s, home for a deal of time, and they?d taken to personally trying Cain at any point they could. Cain had been lucky enough to survive his altercation with the officials with nothing more than a bullet wound and a physical beating, and that he hadn?t just been abducted or killed during the night. Unfortunately for him, most of the soldiers knew about his ?insubordination?, and made it their goals to hassle or harass them whenever possible. Virgil, however, wasn?t allowing them free reign with that. He got up from his work desk, grabbed some pre-filled glasses, and plopped them down without even looking at the soldiers.

[B]?There.?[/B] The soldiers menacingly looked over at Virgil, took a drink from their respective cups, then ?accidentally? dropped their cups onto the ground. The head soldier feigned remorse.

[B]?Oops! Clumsy me. My apologies. One of you should really clean this up.?[/B] Virgil began rising to take care of the mess when the solider held up his hand to him.

[B]?No. Not you. Your friend here has done near nothing for us soldiers. We keep you people safe. He should show a little more respect, pull his weight more.?[/B] Virgil looked to Cain, who?s cheery expression was somewhat stained with pain and anger. Virgil replied to the man coolly, attempting to rise once more.

[B]?Yes, but as you?ve undoubtedly noticed, that?s because my friend is injured--?[/B] This time, Virgil?s attempt was met with the barrel of a gun. The soldier coldly spoke once more.

[B]?Like I said. Your friend here needs to show some respect. As should you.?[/B] The man turned to Cain venomously.

[B]?Well??[/B] The room was silent for a great deal of time, with no single person making a move. Virgil watched Cain intently, hoping that Cain would and wouldn?t give in all at once. He didn?t want to see his friend get hurt, but he was less than interested in watching him obey those vile men. Luckily, all of the clocks in their home chimed instantaneously- it was midday, and that meant the soldiers had some final preparations to go attend to for the festival. The man sneered unhappily and got up, his lackeys following suit. He tipped his hat to Virgil and Cain, and motioned for his men to leave. He stopped in the doorway before leaving, and turned to speak to the two.

[B]?Thank you for letting us stay in your home? Next time, the service should be better. Good day.?[/B] The soldier left without another word or gesture, slamming the door behind him. Virgil sighed and got up to clean up the mess, but was stopped once again, this time by Cain. Virgil?s raised his eyebrows, almost looking surprised. Cain shook his head and began cleaning up.

[B]?No worries, buddy. We both know I?m perfectly well enough to do this on my own. But I do appreciate you defending me from those jerks.?[/B] Virgil shrugged and got on his knees anyways to assist his friend. The moment they were finished, the two ate lunch. Virgil gazed at the door throughout the whole meal, thinking about the upcoming festival. It wasn?t unusual for to be somewhat unnerved around this time every year, but this year, inexplicably, it seemed like the feeling was worst. He looked over to Cain, who?s eyes met his. He could tell his friend was feeling the same way. They ate the rest of their meal in shared silence, anticipating the lottery drawing.[/FONT]

[Darth Vectis]

[SIZE="1"]Cain's thoughts of the entire encounter with the soldiers was, as usual, unpleasant and hassling. The soldiers knew is reputation all to well, and they enjoyed making someone who was rather rebellious suffer for their incursions. He just thought about how he could just tear those guards apart, the only that that separated them from him were their ancient weapons. Otherwise, Cain was a large as any of them, and probably a bit stronger due to his profession. Many had told him he should of joined the forces, been part of those gun toting creatures. Cain never gave it a thought, he enjoyed his work, and the complexity of shaping metal and swinging his hammer to refine the shape of the metal in his possession.

Every year he saw the soldiers, how they invaded his home and how they get free range to do as they please always reminds him of his wife. And how she was taken from him through this devious trap they call the Lottery. He had lost many to that infernal Lottery and yet, he was still smiling, still happy about life. He was only really happy because he could be one to get picked. He was probably one of the few that actually hoped to get picked. He had a different motive to get picked, he was dead set on finding his wife. No one knew of his ideas, no one knew he was determined to go across the great wall. But, he knew Virgil too well to think he was completely oblivious to Cains ambitions.

Cain finished his meal and stood from the table, picked up his bowl and placing it in the large wash bowl they used to clean their utensils and bowls. After he cleaned them off and placed them in a cupboard he turned back to his old friend and put his cheery smile on his face.
[B]
"I'm going out to the shop to do some final adjustments on my latest project. Come and get me when they start the festival."[/B] Virgil nodded to him and Cain disappeared from his quaint home. He walked directly to his shop, thankfully it wasn't far from his home and he could easily maneuver away from the soldiers so he could avoid another instance of what happened earlier. He finally arrived at this shop and instant removed his tunic shirt and strapped on his leather apron. He turned up his forge and cranked the bellows to increase the heat. He pulled a pair of clamps off the wall by him and clamped them around a piece of metal he wad been working on the night before. He stuck the metal in the fire and into the hot coals to begin the forging process.

He reached for his hammer, stopping only to decided which size hammer he needed this time. He needed to choose carefully, if he picked the wrong size he would have to reheat the metal and start over from scratch. He picked the second to smallest hammer, one that had small head and a chisel point on the other side. He pulled the metal out and hammered the metal lightly, shaping and crafting this piece of metal into what he envisioned. This was his work, this was his metal, it belong to no one except him. He grew more engrossed in his work, losing a sense of time and of place as he was getting lost in the rhythmic hammering of his work. The noise, they hitting of metal against metal was rapture to his ears. It was soothing, violent, creative and time consuming. It was so many things to his trained hands and it could only be appreciated by one trained in the craft.

He slowly came back to reality as his work slowly came to a halt, he made the last few taps against the metal and then looked at his work. He then quenched it in a large bucket of water, the sizzle of hot metal touching water, the sudden rise of the steam. He pulled the object from the water and looked over his work. He placed it aside as he took a seat on a wooden stool. He grabbed the object and observed what it was once more, a dagger he crafted just for him. He smiled at the work as he reached onto a table to his left and grabbed a whetstone. He began to sharp his work, he knew it would never do him any good but it was worth having as a feeling of safety. He began to slide the piece of metal against the metal edge, the scrap of metal being whittled away as an edge was being created.

He stopped when he heard a clatter in the shop, he looked up with the dagger in his hand firmly. He expected to see an intruder trying to steal from them, instead he found his master, having tripped over a stool Cain had moved for some other project he had last night and didn't put it back. His master gave him and unhappy expression and Cain just shrugged at him. His master was well into his 50's, probably in his 60's. But he still looked as strong as an ox and as fit as Cain was. His master grabbed the stool he tripped over and moved it so he could sit closer to Cain. He put one arm on the table and looked at his apprentice.
[B]
"I see you got a new toy there."[/B] Cain smiled as he continued to sharpen his dagger.
[B]
"Yeah, I do. Took me awhile to make, since you never trained me to make weapons. Several failed attempts but I think I got right this time."[/B] The ring of stone on metal was persistent as Cain sharpened more.
[B]
"You know that if they find you with that, they'll kill you."[/B] Cain nodded to him.
[B]
"I know. That's why I won't let them see it."[/B] His master had a stern look on his face, Cain focused his attention on the blade in his hand. His master shook his head and stood from his stool and walked to the back of the shop. Cain hadn't noticed until he saw something shiny in his face. He looked up and saw a half-moon axe in his masters hand. He looked at the curved handle and the way the axe itself counter balanced the handle. His master held it out to him and Cain reached up and grabbed the handle, he tested the weight and marveled at is craftsmanship. His master sat down again.
[B]
"That axe was made for a customer years ago, he was picked for the Lottery about fifteen years ago and he was never able to pick it up. I kept it ever since, and now, I think it would come in better use if you have it."[/B] Cain looked up at his master.
[B]
"There is no way I can keep this, you made it, its yours."[/B] His master shook his head.
[B]
"Not anymore, I have a feeling it'll be more useful for you."[/B] Cain held on to this gift, and he couldn't help but feel excitement and dread as he stared onto the weapon. He could only imagine the damage this could do. He gripped it tightly in his hands and looked to his master.
[B]
"Thank you master. I will value you this forever."[/B] His master showed a small smile, one that looked like it would of cracked the serious face of this old blacksmith. He then stood from his stool and let out a long breath.

[B]"Now, you should be off. I'll finish your dagger and give it to you before the days over. Now, head on home."[/B] Cain nodded and stood from his stool, he walked over and removed his apron and put his tunic back on. He then grabbed a large piece of leather and wrapped the axe in it, then took a sheet and wrapped it again. He let the shop, a new prize in his hand, thinking of how he was going to get home without being seen by soldiers.[/SIZE]

[Raiha]

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"][i]It wasn't that Shali didn't love Milo, and enough to the point of desiring another child with him. It was that she was afraid someday he would disappear too. Or he would die like their first little daughter did. Younger than he should have been. She sighed and leaned against his broad shoulder, the muscles clearly defined from all of the exercise he got in the fields. Shali leaned back and stared against the wooden ceiling for a little longer, then turned over on her side in her customary position, clutching the quilts she'd embroidered for them. Lulled by the gentle sound of her husband's even breathing, she too slept.

The first thing she woke up to was the still warm crease in the blankets that meant Milo wasn't yet out the door. She pulled her shirt on over her head and tied the strings of her skirt across her hips the way she always did. Today she would continue the monograms she'd been commissioned to finish by Friday. The rich couple down the way was making a gift of her work to their recently wed daughter. Part of her was pleased that her work would be seen everywhere in Orsys, and displayed publicly as part of the ceremony, but the other part of her was just a little wistful of the wealth they would have for the rest of their lives.

Not that her life with Milo was particularly cruel or difficult. They had enough to eat, both had found a craft that did not tire or bore them excessively. And she quietly brushed her feet over the braided rug her sister had given her, and stepped into the kitchen. He'd already stoked the fire and she rolled his lunch into the cloth that had their names embroidered along the hem. Milo stepped in and gave her a kiss on the cheek.[/i]

"Bread and ham for lunch?"

"And a plum from my cousin's yard."

"I hope it's as sweet as you."

"Oh come off it. If you really have to ask, don't you-"

[i]Milo leaned down and kissed Shali's lips. Gently, then harder as she pretended to push him away. Grabbing her wrists with his weaver's hands, he bent his head down to kiss her throat, then abruptly flipped her onto her stomach, pushed down across the kitchen table. Shali pulled the hem of her skirt up around her hips for him, and sighed to herself in a vague sense of pleasure and satisfaction as he shoved up against her.

No shallow foreplay or afterplay cuddling for either of them, Milo laced up his pants as Shali rearranged her skirt, which had been twisted across her stomach awkwardly when he'd picked her up and pushed her against the hearth wall. HE snatched up his lunch and raced out the door with one last quick kiss as the bells tolled the start of the workday. Cleaning off the table with a wet cloth, Shali smirked to herself, vaguely smug, vaguely still hungry for more. She poured herself a glass of milk and looked out from the kitchen window. Her threads were waiting for her.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR]

[Vicky]

[size=1]The advantage of being the Book Keep in his village was that the library was instantly theirs; Dante had no need to deal with the soldiers every second of the day like others had to, instead he chose to hide away giving people the impression he was busy. He hadn?t realised it had gone far past midnight by now and he was still locked away, reading, nor had he realised that it was nearly morning now and the sun was rising slowly orange at his window ledge.

[b]?Dante??[/b]

Dante blinked a few times to gather up his surroundings and make sure he wasn?t hearing things. He could feel a heat behind him and a light causing the books to cast shadows, to he turned it, blinking his eyes in protest.

[b]?Yes??[/b] he replied turning around fully.

[b]?What are you doing up so early??[/b]

His mother, who was a tall and beautiful woman seldom venturing outside and accustomed to doing all the house work (even more so when the military decided to grace the village with their presence), was stood at the door with a candle.

[b]?I didn?t realise it was morning??[/b] Dante said with half a laugh. [b]?You?re not normally up this early yourself.?[/b]

[b]?It?s the Lottery today, you see,?[/b] she explained with a say, [b]?and the soldiers will probably be hungry.?[/b]

Dante frowned. [b]?I don?t see why they can?t fend for themselves. Well, at least something is happening today, I guess,?[/b]

His mother sighed and leaned against the doorframe. ?I do wish they would make the age a little higher for that silly game? I?m not sure what I would do without you or your father.?

Dante chuckled. [b]?Like any of us are lucky enough to win??[/b]

[b]?Well then I hope we?re the unluckiest family in the world,?[/b] she replied with a smile, [b]?better get started. You get some sleep, Dante.?[/b]

Dante closed his book and shot up. [b]?Hang on, I?ll help you.?[/b]

[center]*[/center]

The festival wasn?t due to start for another hour to two so Dante decided to wander around for awhile. He managed to meet up with a boy called Io, who had been for some years Dante?s only friend (except the people he knew by name or reputation). Io himself was incredibly popular amongst the village and the younger children or teenager his age, but he was often content in sitting with Dante.

[b]?Pretty bland this year??[/b] Io mumbled sat on a fence beside Dante (he was considerably bigger than Dante even though he was younger, and much more of a rebel than Dante could hope to be).

[b]?It always is up here. Everything has to be rigid and formal.? [/b]

They watched from the fence at the main road up a head, where the festival (loosely called so) would mainly be held. The villagers would put up banners designed by the artists which always looked graceful to the eye and a dozen posters of yet more artwork for the parade. Every year those in charge of the textiles in the village would parade their fashion down the main road and there would be formal cheering, clapping and laughter, like some sort of old-fashioned twisted little parade. When that was done they would make their way up to the village centre, where the Lottery would be drawn.

[b]?It?s a bit of a contradiction to be celebrating something people never return from.?[/b]

[b]?You mean it?s an oxymoron??[/b] Dante corrected.

[b]?Yeah yeah whatever. Just something bad obviously happens and no one every wants to talk -? Io paused when two soldiers walked past, eyeing them, [b]? ? about it. You never know what?s going to happen over that wall.?[/b]

[b]?Well something good might happen. You don?t know that either and you can?t tell me you wouldn?t be pleased at winning.?[/b]

Io laughed. [b]?If I won I wouldn?t be complaining. I just want to see what?s over there, really.?[/B]

Dante rolled his eyes.

[b]?What? You?re not interested??[/b]

[b]?I am a little, I would just rather stay here.?[/b]

Io clapped a hand in his shoulder and laughed again. [b]?Yeah, whatever. Come on, let?s go and get ourselves a good place for the parade.?[/b][/size]

[Drizzt Do'urden]

"Jason, Jason honey its time to get up. The festival's starting." Jason yawned as he rolled around in bed. He'd honestly contimplated just lying in bed all day and skipping the festival. He'd spent time figuring up the number of entries based on the assumed ages of everyone he knew, and threw in some round about numbers on the rest. He figured he had about a 1 in 1000 chance oe being selected. Of course there were things with worse odds, but he dind't even see the point in attending.

He decided his mother would never let him sleep through it though, so he got up and made his way downstairs where his mother and father both sat drinking coffee. They were both dressed in their best clothes, Jason felt odd. He didn't dress up, this year though his parents were supposed to meet with some high end military officials so his father could proposition him about moving to a warmer climate.

The three had decided to skip the parade this year, they'd seen it time and time again. And thought that Jason had been working so hard with his father, he deserved some sleep in time. They arrived just as everone in the villiage, plus the military occupants, sat down to enjoy dinner.

They hadn't been their 5 minutes before Jason's parents were summoned to meet with the General. "Jason, enjoy yourself. The lottery starts in 20 minutes, hopefully we'll be back by then." As soon as they left, Jason got up to walk around. With the hours he and his father worked he didn't have an opportunity to meet many people from the villiage.

After walking around and seeing the sites. He sat back down, not a minute later his mother came screaming, wrapped her arms around him, and began telling him all about the meeting.

"Oh Jason it went so great, guess what?" Just then, the announcer came up. The lottery was always choosen by a select group of elders in secret, only observed by military personel as to ensure cheating.

"Please everyone, take your seats so I can announce the names." Jason half listened, he was more concerened with his moms "good news"

"Well, we sat down with the general and at first he didn't even want to listen to us."

"The first name, Jeff Moore"

"After 5 minutes he wanted us to leave."

"Next Abigail James"

"Then your father said, "Sir we arranged this meeting so the least you could do is hear us out. wow was your father in his face"

"Jeremy Stocks"

"The general was so mad, but I think he was inpressed by your fathers conviction so he had us sit back down."

"Francine Murphy"

"Your father explained the situation about the deal that was made when he first took that job."

"Jack ramsey"

"It was amazing, he didn't even think about it. He just said that he was sorry, the last general didn't give him that information."

"Jenna Smith"

"So, your fathers signing the paperwork now, but we're all going to Southern California! Oh its so warm there. I'm so happy you get to really see the country. We have to go pack, we're all leaving tommorow!"

"Jason McGraft"

Jason's jaw dropped, he looked at his mother who had the same look on her face.

"I guess, we're not all leaving tommorow mom."

[Darren]

[FONT="Book Antiqua"][SIZE="1"]The festival was as Henry had expected. It was, for the most part, a waste of time. Every year it seemed that it was getting worse. The hay-rides, bake sales, and games for the younger citizens nearly came to a halt this year. It probably had something to do with the military's increasing presence in Udaya each year.

Of course, Henry was only able to attend the festival for a few minutes, most of which he spent with violet while helping her family with their booth. And just as the day had seemingly come to an end, they were all forced to gather in the town hall for the lottery selection. Citizens flowed in, one by one, stating their names to the military officials so they could mark them off an attendance list.

Before this lottery, Henry was forced to wait in the balcony in order to watch the processions, but this year was different. He walked in, stated his name, and then but his personal lottery ball into the large box at the front of the room. Before long, every member of Udaya that was of age, was crowded into the small building. Some were forced to sit up, while others had to stand just outside the hall, craning their necks in order to see the military official at the front. Henry sat silently, close to the back, holding his grandpa's hand in order to give him support.

The man spoke with a booming deep voice, going over what everyone already knew about the lottery. How the selected seven were to report the the military base immediately after the ceremony, how family members may travel with the selected, but only until they reach the wall, and how all families of the selected were given the option to change village sights if they wished, without any hassle.

But Henry wasn't listening. He had heard it a thousand times before. Instead, he was focused on Violet. She sat a few rows in front of him with the rest of the Stanley family with Delilah in her lap. The first name was called, but Henry didn't hear it. There were shocked gasps and uncertain applause, (as was common during the lottery) but Henry didn't care about anyone's reaction but Violet's. She just sat there, rubbing Delilah's arm as if to protect her.

The next name was called. Again, Henry didn't hear and Violet didn't move. The third name: No reaction, but then something happened. Something that he did hear and it snapped him out of his trance.

[B]"James Stanley,"[/B] The fourth name rang through Henry's ears. Violet began to cry. The gasps and applause were drowned in her tears and it seemed that the entire world might explode. The fifth name was called, but Henry didn't hear it. he stayed focused on Violet.

Suddenly, she turned around to stare at him. Tears were streaming down her face even harder than before. He felt his grandpa squeeze his hand, and he turned to see the sorrow in his eyes and knew what had happened. Henry Mathys was the fifth participant in the lottery.

The sixth name was called, but now Henry simply couldn't hear over the sound of his beating heart in his head. He could feel the blood rush to his face and felt the sorrow emitting from his grandpa.

[B]"And last, but not least,"[/B] the military official stated over the dying applause. [B]"Bill Mathys"[/B] And now Henry felt him squeezing his grandpa's hand. They shared a look of mixed fear and relief that they hadn't been separated, but they were still going across that barrier."

[CENTER]----------[/CENTER]

Henry woke up in cold sweat. He was breathing heavily, and couldn't see in the darkness. [I]It was just a dream,[/I] he thought, but he couldn't shake how real the dream was. Henry fumbled around in the darkness, feeling for the lantern that was beside his bed, but was met with another sleeping body.

That's when he realized that he wasn't sleeping in a bed. He crawled to a small light at the foot of his resting area and opened the tarp to reveal that he was on the Stanley family's wagon. He and his grandpa were traveling with them, along with James, to the wall. The moonlight was shining on each of their sleeping faces. Mrs. Stanley must have been steering the wagon as she was the only one absent.

It wasn't a dream. Henry, his grandpa, and his fiancé's brother would all cross that mysterious barrier in a day's time.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[P.J. McKrafty]

[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]The smell of roasted sheep hung thick throughout the town. Plumes of smoke could be seen rising over the houses as pillars of black. Today was the day of the festivities, a pleasurable time for those young of age, a most stressful time for those who have reached the eligible age. People were now walking the streets heading to shops or preparing for the festivities. A few soldiers walked the crowds but the majority of them were probably nursing their headaches from drinking all of the town?s ale and wine.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]I reached my parent?s home and was met by the dogs. Cat kept his distance as I greeted each of them one by one. I made my way to the door, stumbling a few times from the overeager hounds, but was able to push my way inside. I hung my water skin and pack at the entranceway and proceeded to enter the house. Much bigger than my house, my parent?s home was a target for many of the visiting soldiers. Each visit endured by them and each one grating more and more on my patience. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]I entered the dining room and my father turned his chair to see me. He has aged more since the accident, his hair now almost completely gray and his face taking a quite worn appearance. He smiled as I entered and nodded. I took my seat beside him and my mother entered the room carrying several plates of food. Her face brightened at the sight of me.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][B]?Milo, just in time.?[/B] She said beaming. [B]?I have just finished making breakfast for your father and our? [I]Guests[/I].? [/B]She spat the last word as if it were a curse.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][B][/B][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][B]?Thank you, but I couldn?t.? [/B]I replied. She then placed a plate of fresh bread and marmalade in front of me. I sighed and started eating. My father ate in silence beside me. He never said much, which made what words he did utter very powerful. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]The door creaked and a uniform flashed as a soldier stumbled into the room. Drunk. He steadied himself on the table and leveled his dull gaze on me. He then snatched the bread from my hand. I jolted up pushing my seat back which made the slumped drunk have to look up at me.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][B]?Sit back down.?[/B] Came a familiar stern voice from the entrance of the dining room. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]I turned to see the face of Jeremy Hampton. He had his red hair slicked back and his uniform in shambles, most likely from a drunken night. The biggest change was his scar seemed to fade since I last saw him from bright pint to a pale flesh color. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]Jeremy had tried to use his rank to push around a local tavern owner to impress a girl. After the tavern owner refused to give in to Jeremy?s demands, Jeremy pulled a knife of the man. The story goes that Jeremy underestimated the man, and in an attempt of finesse, the tavern owner disarmed him. It continues on saying that the tavern owner took Jeremy?s knife to him, slicing him from his lip to right under his right eye, giving him a gnarled gash has left him undesirable to anyone. The fate of the tavern owner changes by tales, but the most conservative of stories has him being shot three times and bleeding out.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]He twisted a knife in his hands, I?m sure it was a threatening gesture, but all that passed through my mind was how amusingly ironic it would be that that very knife was the one that gave him the scar.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][B]?I said sit,?[/B] He said pointing the knife back to my chair. I did so. [B]?It is good to see that you are as obedient as ever.? [/B]He said a grin spread wide across his face. I gritted my teeth at every word that left his mouth.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]I spent a few hours with my parents and soldiers came and went through. Jeremy remained a permanent fixture though, eating and drinking, trading stories and telling jokes, most of which at my own expense. Jeremy sees me as his personal whipping boy while he visits Orsys. I can?t remember what incited the hatred between us, but it has been there since the first year he stayed at our house. I can honestly say I have never hated anyone like I have hated Jeremy Hampton. Time had escaped me as I sat at the table and my mother tapped my shoulder to remind me that it was about time to go meet with Shali.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]I was at the door jam when Jeremy called out to me. [B]?Milo!?[/B] I paused. [B]?Don?t you worry about Shali if you would happen to be picked tonight. I will take good care of her.?[/B][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]Now, I would like to think I am a level headed individual, but the next thing I did was quite the opposite. On impulse, I grabbed up one of the knives my mother used for skinning and had laid on the table by the door, and hurled it. The room went silent as everyone?s eyes laid on the knife, stuck in the table, maybe an inch away from Jeremy?s hand. The blood drained from his face and he jerked his hand back cradling it to his body. I didn?t dare look to see my father?s expression, the disappointment that was surely plastered on it from my actions; I just gathered my things and left before the initial shock wore off.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial][SIZE=2][COLOR=Navy]On the way back to Shali, I mused about how that the little skill of knife throwing I developed after a few wagers with the tavern regulars had put Jeremy in his place. It was only after the adrenaline wore off that I realized what I had done. What I might have done to Shali. Or my parents. Let alone myself. I tried to push it out of my mind, the lottery was tonight.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

[Raiha]

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"][i]Shali had just finished embroidering the last rose in a long line of borders at the corners of the sheets when Jeremy Hampton came swaggering into the shop front of her home. She felt the same sort of weariness upon seeing him as she'd always had, even when they were children and he'd flirted hopelessly with her. Nowadays he only showed up to torment her or her husband. Only torment was too strong a word. He was so immature he probably didn't even-[/i]

"Heeeeeyy.... How you doing?"

[i]Gently setting down the final set of sheets she looked up at him, one hand under her expansive apron. She gently reached for the craft needles she kept in one of her back pockets under the folds of her skirt and kept her tone calm and conversational.[/i]

"I'm working on the last set of sheets for the Monoda family."

"Shouldn't you take a break? I mean you have time."

[i]Shali kept her eyes on him instead of glancing towards the position of the sun like she knew he wanted her to. Then she turned back to him with a sweet smile while her fingers closed around the edges of the largest needles she worked with. Holding them between her fingers, both of them pointing outwards just slightly, she waited until he put a hand on her left arm. Then she whirled her hand up from under her skirts and slammed her fist down on his, the needles sinking deep into the flesh. Her voice thickened into a snarl.[/i]

"Don't you [b]dare[/b] touch me ever again. If you do I will sew your lips together, perforate your asshole, and stitch your penis to your balls."

[i]In a wrenching motion, she jerked the needles from his hand, the puncture wounds welling up just a little blood. Shali picked up her embroidery once more and refused to look at his shocked face, the indignation mingled with the horrible pain.

He ran out the door and she went back to her work, getting up now and then to stir the hasty pudding that they would be taking to the celebration. Then, just before Milo came home, she took off her apron, folded up the sheets, and got out the skirt she'd put blue threads into. Tying it around her hips, she whipped the sash around and tied it in a square knot. Then she pulled back her hair and pinned it back with the bone styluses Milo had whittled for her while was out in the fields.

When Milo came in, she turned and kissed him gently before he could say a word, even though she saw the anger on his face. When she pulled away his words spilled out before she could stop them.[/i]

"Did Jeremy come in here? Did he touch you? Did he say any-"

[i]She put a finger to his lips and then kissed him again, reassuring him with her body first.[/i]

"I put my needles into his hand. He won't get you through me. Never."

[i]Milo's face went through a variety of changes before he allowed her words to sink in. Then she held out his evening jacket, one she'd put lines of interlace across and helped him into it. Taking one end of their cauldron, she gestured at the other end and the two heaved it up and across the threshold of their house, headed for the courtyard of Orsys. Setting their contribution down, Shail began ladling out the pudding as people held bowls out to her while Milo went out to bring back their share of lamb and vegetables from the others.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR]

[Astdis]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]?It all looks wonderful mother, really.?[/B] Bailey watched as her mother paced around the tables tweaking the display of breads and pies and nervously tucking stray strands of hair behind her ears.

[B]?Yes, yes. Alright.? [/B]Her mother walked over to Bailey and sank into a chair near the kitchen door. Bailey wrapped an arm around her and kissed her mother lovingly on the forehead.

[B]?It will all be over soon.? [/B]Her mother nodded slowly and closed her eyes. Three children came running up to the house laughing and carrying balloons. The youngest, a girl of about 6 with hair in pigtails walked cautiously up to Bailey and her mother.

[B]?Um, Mrs. McKinley? I um??[/B]

[B]?What is it Violet??[/B]

The little girl shuffled her feet nervously.[B] ?I? I was wondering if we could have a pie. Mama says we can?t afford pie this year, but I know she likes it and I wanted to??[/B]

Bailey?s mother smiled and leaned in conspiratorially toward the girl [B]?I think that blueberry on the corner is her favorite. It?ll be our little secret.? [/B]

The girls face lit up and she rushed over to the table.

[B]?Better tie that balloon around your wrist or you?ll loose it.? [/B]Bailey called after her. Looks back at her mother she smiled and shook her head,[B] ?you know we?ll never make a profit on the lottery goods if you keep givin? them away.? [/B]

Her mother shrugged and looked off down the street and the brightly dress children playing. [B]?Violet lost her pa and sister in the last lottery. Her mother hasn?t had much joy this past year.? [/B]She turned solemn eyes to Bailey [B]?maybe I?m not in this for the profit.?[/B]

.....

They were gathered on the field just beyond the fair that had been set up for the day. Soldiers were standing in a line before them with a ledger of names that had been chosen for the lottery. Bailey held her mothers hand while her brothers stood with her Uncle and cousins. One of her cousins, Jeremy, had just been called. Her brothers had gone over to keep her Uncle from doing something rash, he had a bit of a temper when it came to the lottery. When her father had been called, her uncle had slugged one of the soldiers and broke another?s nose before they had hauled him off to the jail.

[B]?Kimberly Lock?[/B] Bailey stifled a yell of surprise. She turned to see Violet?s mother fall into a faint. This bit Bailey would never understand, [I]why some family?s had been harvested away completely by the lottery and some had never been touched. She knew in theory that it wasn?t by design, but it raised serious misgivings in her.[/I]

[B]?Lastly, Bailey McKinley?[/B]

What happened next was blurred to Bailey. [I]She couldn?t hear properly, her vision felt altered. All she could do was stand there, staring.[/I] She saw her eldest brother and her uncle being held back as they screamed abuse at the soldiers. She saw her mother collapse beside her as women came to comfort her. The soldiers just stared coldly at the gathering and announced something before turning and heading back into the village.[/COLOR]

[Lunar]

[COLOR="Sienna"]Shana woke up and looked at the bright sun. She slowly dressed in her best clothes, which were just a grey blouse and a black skirt.
"Alright, Shana, you can do this." she said to herself as she walked out the door and made her way to the lottery festival.
She immediately recognized it, the smells of pastries and sweets, the yelling of children as their parents scolded them. She took part in a few activites and played some kids games with the kids her were always begging her to play with them.

"Attention all attendees 18 and older. We are now about to vote for the lottery. Please make your way to the center of the festival promptly." a loud voice interrupted.
Shana looked up. "Oh, crap."
"Ms. Shana, do you have to go now, too?" a boy of about 7 asked.
"Yeah. I'm sorry. I'll promise to play with you next time I see you, 'kay?"
The boy frowned. "No, you won't be back to see me. Everyone who wins that dumb lottery never comes back." he said with a quiver to his lip.
"Well, how do you know I won't come back if I[I] do [/I]win?"
""Cause my big sister won last year, and I haven't seen her since."
Tears started steaming from his eyes.
"Aw. Don't cry." she knelt down, fussing because she was getting her knees dirty. "Look, if I do win, I promise I'll do everything I can to come back here, okay? And who's to say I[I] will [/I]win?" Shana wiped away his tears with the edge of her blouse.
The little boy sniffled and wiped the tears from his eyes. "Okay. But promise myeyou'll come back?"
"I promise."
"AGAIN, ALL ATTENDEES 18 AND OLDER, REPORT TO THE CENTER OF THE FESTIVAL!"
"I'm coming..................." she mumbled as she hugged the boy and said her goodbyes. Little did she know, it would be a while until she would see the boy again.

[CENTER]*************[/CENTER]


A week later, she was again called to the center of the town. It was now time for the results of the lottery. She dreaded the coming of this day.
"Maybe I'll just ditch it this time. I mean there's always next year." she said to herself, trying to make it seem like she actually [I]could[/I] leave without the military knowing.
She put on a burgandy skirt and a black top and walked to the center of the town.

"ALL RIGHT, THOSE OF YOU WHO WANTED TO WIN THE LOTTERY, I WILL NOW MAKE THE ANNOUNCEMENT FOR THE LUCKY PERSON WHO WILL GET THIS RARE CHANCE."

There was a rustle of papers as the plump man shuffled his papers.
"AND OUR LUCKY WINNER IS........................"
he paused to build the suspense.
"SHANA MILLS!!!"
"Wha?" she said as she made her way to the podium.
"YUP, IT IS YOU, MS. MILLS! PLEASE MAKE YOUR WAY TO THE HOTEL WE'RE YOU WILL BE STAYING FOR THE NIGHT. TOMMOROW YOU WILL BE TAKEN TO THE WALL."
Shana nodded and followed the man. She knew something bad was going to happen.

[B]~Sorry about the wait!~[/B][/COLOR]

[Darth Vectis]

[SIZE="1"]Cain had made it back to his home with no altercation, that was a miracle in his eyes. When he got home he managed to effectively hide the axe in his home. He never knew what he was going to do with it, but it was something he need to keep around. He knew he need to find Virgil, the celebration was going to start soon, if you could call it a celebration. Cain just saw it as another opportunity, another year to go across that wall to find even the last remnants of his wife. He needed to know if she was still alive, his dreams were filled with her. Most of the time they were nightmares and the soldiers never made it easier for him. He has always felt that urge, that calling to kill one of the soldiers. But, he knew he wasn't a warrior, he was just a black smith and he wouldn't raise his hammer unless it was to strike hot metal.

He walked about the village, seeing how people were preparing the final stages of the festival. Lots of colorful streamers and banners were place all over the town. He couldn't turn his head without seeing something that involved the lottery. The soldiers moving about were not a pleasant touch, they all would stare at him as he moved about. He knew they would try something soon, anything to harass him so they could end him. He ignored them as he walked around, observing the signs of the festival. He found Virgil doing the same, when he bumped into him he patted his friend on the shoulder. Putting a little too much effort into it and nearly knocking Virgil off his feet.
[B]
"Sorry buddy, i'm just happy to not be roaming around a lone anymore. Those soldiers are always watching me."[/B] Virgil smiled at him and started to clean his glasses.
[B]
"Well, maybe if you hadn't put up a fight when they took your wife they wouldn't have it out for you.[/B]" Cain just shrugged.
[B]
"There are few things in this world that are worth defending, she was one of them. I will find her."[/B] Virgil just shook his head, he knew the chances of Cain being picked for the lottery, but, he also knew that Cain was far too determined to be stopped from even attempting to find his wife. Virgil thought about it and realized he never knew her name, Cain never mentioned her unless the lottery was brought up. He never understood that but never really questioned it. He just went about his business, they wondered about, helping where they could to make sure that this festival went on. Virgil could see an Cain growing my antsy with the drawing, he knew he was getting this why because he wanted his name pulled. Probably the only man who wanted to go across the wall, but he knew Cain to do some odd things.




As the day was coming to evening, people gathered in the middle of the town, they had set up a large stage area where they were going to pull names out. Everyone was gathered here, and all were silent. They wanted to know who was leaving this village for good, Cain stood close to the stage. Him and Virgil had been there hours earlier, making sure they had a good place to be. Virgil personally would of liked it better to be in the back, but Cain needed to be closer. He needed to be closer to the lottery drawer. There were few whispers in the crowd, he could hear people mention how scared they were of being picked. That they wished that their children or their friends, but more importantly, themselves were not picked.

Cain waited patiently until the drawing started, the whispers vanished and all eyes were focused on the man drawing the names. He turned his crank and the names spun around in the round contraption until he felt it was well mixed up. He opened the hatch to his turner and then reached in, swishing his hand around to make sure it was mixed up. He grabbed the first piece of paper from this tumbler and held it up so he could look at the name clearly. He cleared his through to make sure everyone could hear.
[B]
"The first pick for the Lottery of the Ash'tar village."[/B] The speaker paused for a moment to make sure attention was on him.
[B]
"Cain Maverin."[/B] A sudden cheer came from the crowd, everyone looked to see who it was. They saw a man with his arms thrown up in a triumphant way, his hands balled into fists. It was Cain, he was celebrating winning the lottery. No one every did such a thing, everyone who was around him scooted away from him. Cains face grew into a smile, Virgil had a look of utter shock and sadness. Cain just patted him on the shoulders again.
[B]
"I finally get to find her. I'm going to find her, and I will bring her back."[/B] Virgil grab his arm and held back his tears, then suddenly, Cain heard something that changed the mood he was in. He looked up to the speak who had pulled a name out of the tumbler and had announced it.
[B]
"Virgil De Luce."[/B] Cains blood ran cold, he could only look at his friends as words now failed to form in his mind.[/SIZE]

[SIZE="1"]OOC: Sorry that took so long to post, work is killing me lately.[/SIZE]

[Vicky]

OOC: Spell check tomorrow.

[size=1]The parade was something that Dante looked forward to, vaguely, because it was like organised chaos. Io and Dante had managed to place themselves right at the upper end of the long street the parade would be carried up, just before the central part of the village where the raffle would be held (which was simply a rather large, overdressed stage guarded with soldiers elevated higher than they should be). Io was rather interested in the beginning of the parade itself, whilst Dante hung his hands lazily over the barriers and sighed into his shirt, never having understood all the hype about people disappearing.

[b]?What do you think it?ll be like this year??[/b] asked Io.

[b]?Same as last.?[/b] Dante replied with a roll of his eyes.

Io frowned at him. [b]?I?m sure you?ve been locked away readings books for too long...?[/b]

[b]?Yes, it actually gave me some brains.?[/b]

Io either chose to ignore it or didn?t hear from the sound of beating drums (common place in the village) and other instruments mixed into the sound. The soldiers posted around here and there propped their heads up, narrowing their eyes at anyone who tended to show even the slightest hint of causing a problem or showing any kind of zeal.

The parade was largely arts and music. Dante was less impressed by the sight than Io was, idly keeping his arms crossed and shaking his head. The first wave was a mass of villagers in long silk gowns and plain white masks, displaying all sorts of expressions on their painted faces with the drums behind them, each section broken up with a different set of instruments. It was interesting, Dante supposed, as from his knowledge most other villages around hadn?t had the chance to develop so much in this area ? he figured that was to do with the fact that his own village was simply too cold to grow enough crops.

[b]?Your parents are over there,?[/b] Io spoke above the music. Dante stood on his toes to see above the crowds, seeing his family over at the other side of the street. He would have tried waving if he knew they could actually see.

[b]?Our family never wins this thing, anyway. I don?t know why I ever come here.?[/b]

[b]?Aside the fact you?d probably be shot if you didn?t??[/b]

[b]?Yes, aside from that.?[/B]

[b]?Well, you come here because you love me!?[/b] Io gripped Dante?s shoulder and pulled him into a massive embrace, much to Dante?s annoyance.

The parade continued for a good long time and didn?t interest Dante that much. Not now, not then, not ever. He never liked playing the Lottery nor liked attending the festivals because it was simply something he wasn?t comfortable with; although the villagers themselves were quite secluded, Dante was [I]the[/I] recluse of them all. Didn?t like any of it. Not one bit.

The last members of the parade were dressed as massive bird creatures ? probably phoenixes ? holding absolutely no significance to anything at all. Like every boy his age, Io was thrilled to see that they were all [I]women[/I], and made a point of hollering at them, to which Dante jabbed at his ribs.

[b]?Hey, watch it,?[/b] he hissed nodding towards the soldiers.

Io dropped his hands to his side and rested his face into a frown.

When the parade ended the majority of the villagers wandered off to the village centre and the stage, only a few staying behind to engage in some pseudo-dignified chatter. Dante groaned at that, as well.

Io?s enthusiasm for the whole Lottery nonsense meant they were amongst the first to gather around the stage. The soldiers were preparing the numbers ? for once putting their guns aside ? and the crowds were now gathering. Those in the parade were the last to gather, having to take their costumes off, and Dante could see his parents just behind him. His mother smiled and he smiled back, waving only slightly.

The soldiers had finished whatever they were preparing and turned to the crowds. They eyed the left side of the stage and one soldier moved forward, removing the barrier slightly.

[b]?Alright folks, come on up,?[/b] he told them.


There was no rushing, nor pushing, or pulling, or screaming. It was just something everyone was relatively used to ? all that remained were the constant excited chatterings amongst each other and sometimes and hearty laughs. Io and Dante were some of the first to go up there, each reaching a ball with a number on it. When Dante received his ? the number 8 ? he sulked and walked off the other side of the stage close behind Io?s heels.

They took themselves to the back and Io stared at his number almost disappointed. Dante considered going over to see his parents for a moment but, upon seeing Io?s look, decided to keep his focus on him.

[b]?Why the long face??[/b] he asked.

[b]?Number 13??[/b] Io mumbled showing Dante the fist sized blue ball. [b]?Unlucky number.?[/b]

Dante smirked. [b]?What? You?re kidding, aren?t you? You actually [I]want[/I] to win this??[/b]

Io smirked as well. [b]?Could be interesting. We?re not all pessimistic conspiracy theorists? like you.?[/b]

Dante just rolled his eyes and held up his number. [b]?How ironic ? my number is lucky. Apparently.?[/b]

[b]?Now where did you read [I]that[/I]??[/b]

[b]?Shut up,?[/b] Dante laughed, [b]?it?s true.?[/b]

Io breathed in a sudden breath and turned to look at the soldiers on the stage. Too busy handing out the numbers, Io decided to take his chances. He pressed his number into Dante?s free hand and took the other as quick as he could, Dante raising on eyebrow.

[b]?Trade??[/b]

[b]?Fine then.?[/B] Dante flicked the new number in the air and smirked.

They watched from the back, the grounds dispersing and merging into each other across different areas of the village centre (which was, incidentally, made of cobblestone and rock, nothing more). There were a few people, friends of Io, who came over and spoke but Dante rarely said anything to them beyond a courteous smile or a brief description of how his day was. It was only then that he was thankful a soldier cleared his throat into the microphone.

[b]?If we could have everyone settled please??[/b]

His voice was irritated, almost bored and the feeling and pointlessness inching on his tongue, something Dante could relate to.

[b]?We?ll now be calling out the first number??[/b]

Io nudged Dante. [b]?You ready? All your hopes and all your dreams await.?[/B]

Dante scoffed. [b]?You wish.?[/b]

There were still mumblings around the square though not as loud now, the villagers being able to hear the soldier rustling through the numbers in a basket. Dante folded his arms once more and breathed out through his nostrils in a clear sign that he would rather be at home than stood around like a nonce. After what seemed like a decade of forever stood amongst all the tension and all the muffled rumours the soldier finally pulled out a piece of paper, un wrapping it and holding it up to the sun.

[b]?And the number is??[/b] he began, the crowd collectively holding their breath. [b]?Number 13![/B]

The crowd erupted in an applause, some cheers here and there, something too loud to come from only one hundred people. Dante, on the other hand, felt numb. He couldn?t even bring himself to move and, when he did, he immediately turned to Io.

[b]?Fuck.?[/b] He gulped.

Dante toyed with the fact of trading his number once more but all soldier eyes were on the crowd now and he would surely be shot down. He willed his legs to move forward in the crowd and, upon instantly seeing the winner, the other villagers pushed him forward.

And all Dante recalled completely from that winding, blurred moment upon entering onto the stage was looking into the crowd of his mother, her face not knowing what to think at all.

[center]*[/center]

The ride to the wall was long and bumpy. Dante sat on the back of a Jeep-like van, the first to be led to the wall from his village, facing a soldier who looked older than normal, a grey beard placed upon a sharp and tanned face, eyes stern and unmoving as they stared Dante down into the ground. Dante diverted his eyes and sighed.

What a bloody disaster. He was perfectly content living in his library with all his books and had no desire to see the mysterious wonders beyond the wall ? that was Io?s job. And, worst of all, her face.

His mother?s face when she saw Dante descend to the stage ? something foreign almost on it, too many mixed feelings for Dante to distinguish and acknowledge. It didn?t matter what else had happened after that because all Dante could remember was her [I]face[/I]. Shit.

[b]?Don?t look so sad, boy,?[/b] the old soldier finally mocked, [b]?once in a life time opportunity, this.?[/b]

Dante snarled.[/size]

[Darren]

[CENTER][SIZE="3"][FONT="Impact"]Part 2: The Wall[/FONT][/SIZE][/CENTER]

[SIZE="1"][FONT="Book Antiqua"]The night travel was strange for Henry. Not just because he wasn't used to riding in a wagon (as he and his grandfather always traveled on foot with a wheelbarrow at their front) but also because he had never ventured this far out of Udaya. And yes, the thought also crossed his mind that he was traveling with Violet. But then also remembered that he was literally surrounded by hundreds of military personnel.

He tried to sleep most of the night, but found himself walking along side the wagon in the chilled air. The military paid him no attention. Perhaps it was their way of reconciling for giving his village hell all week, but Henry thought it was something much worse than that. Finally, he went to lay down in the wagon as it rolled on toward the wall. He still wasn't able to sleep though, as Mrs. Stanley was constantly crying as she steered the horses all night.

[B]"Henry,"[/B] Little Delilah's voice penetrated his half-sleep state. [B]"We're almost there. It's time to wake up."[/B]

A small sliver of light was shining in from the back of the wagon, telling him that it was just passed dawn. He awoke, still groggy from lack of rest, but nonetheless he crawled out of the wagon and pursued the rest of the members who were creeping along the road. It seemed that his village had met up with several others as there was now well over 200 people walking along-side him. He glanced from person to person, trying to figure out which one's were chosen in the lottery and which one's were family members of the chosen. It was so hard to tell as they all looked either so depressed or so excited.

He spotted Violet up ahead of him, she was walking with James, her arm wrapped around his shoulder. Henry could tell even from behind that she was sobbing. At first he thought it would be best to remain back, but James turned and spotted him, giving a look as if to say 'Help Me,' so he interrupted.

[B]"Hi. How are you?"[/B] He thought it was stupid even after he had said it. First her father was taken by the lottery, and now her brother. Henry wondered if any of those tears were for him.

[B]"I'm okay,"[/B] she lied through her sobs. Trying not to give away the obvious.

[B]"You don't look okay."[/B]

[B]"Oh, Henry,"[/B] she said, throwing her other arm over his shoulder. Now he understood that James's look was a plea for help. [B]"I just can't bear to lose anyone else. I don't know what I'm going to do."[/B]

[B]"You're going to live."[/B] Henry's grandpa interrupted. He was walking siletnly behind the trio. [B]"It's the least you can do,"[/B] he said, [B]"Live with the memory of your father, your brother, and Henry and never let us die. I'm sure one day that we'll all be reunited."[/B]

It was a morbid thought, but it seemed to cheer Violet up a little. She stopped crying and nodded in agreement. [B]"These are our last moments,"[/B] she said, [B]"What do we do?"[/B]

Henry paused for long while, deep in thought. Then, [B]"Enjoy it."[/B]

[B]"You two promise me to look after each other. Take care of each other. You are like brothers now, and when I finally get chosen, I want to see that neither one of you has killed the other."[/B] It was a joke, but Henry somehow felt as though she were speaking of the future. As though it was an omen of what was to come.

[B]"Hey everyone, we're here!"[/B] Delilah exclaimed. She was really too young to understand what was going to happen. She pointed toward the now obvious wall.

It was terrifying and inspiring at the same time. vines crept up it's ancient body. Small boulders lay on the ground from where the top had been falling away. And dead ahead, was a large wooden gateway that would lead James, Henry, and his grandfather to their future. They made an abrupt stop as the military officials spoke again.

[B]"This is as far as family members may go. I'll allow you 20 minutes. Say your goodbyes and then all lottery winners need to approach the gate immediately. We'll be crossing the barrier as soon as all 700 winners have arrived."[/B]

So this was it. [I]Goodbye Udaya. Goodbye Violet. I always loved you.[/I][/FONT][/SIZE]

[P.J. McKrafty]

[FONT=Arial][COLOR=Navy]Shali held my hand in a vice grip as they started to call the names. I was just as nervous as her but I tried to keep it to myself. I didn’t need to make things worse for her by showing her that I was just as scared as she is. They would call a name, people would cry, and a soldier came to escort the person to the caravan. I watched as this was repeated several times.

It came down to the last few names, and as each was called my confidence grew. I had not been chosen these past four years. Why now? I began to muse the thought over in my head. As I did this I lost track of the world around me.

[B]“Milo Strae.”[/B] cried the speaker.

I snapped my head up and looked right at him, awestruck. All eyes seemed to fall on me, and all I could do is stare dumbly at the speaker. I felt Shali wrap her arms around me and start to weep. And all I could do was stare. I could hear my mother’s cry across the crowd. And all I could do was stare. The people around me started to whisper. And all i could do was stare.

Finally i felt the grip of the soldier that came to take me off. I turned to see the scarred smile of Jeremy.

[B]“Let’s go.”[/B] He demanded giving me a jerk.

I smacked his hand off of my shoulder.[B] “You bastard!”[/B] I growled shoving my finger in his face. [B]“You planned this! You had them pick my name!”[/B]

He only answered my by smirking and drawing his rifle. I felt the presence of the two other soldiers approaching me from behind.

[B]“Are you resisting?”[/B] He asked calmly.

I didn’t answer him. I didn’t even think about it before I did it, but there I was standing over Jeremy my fist hurting and watching the blood slowly flow out of his crumpled nose. One of the other soldiers came up behind me, and wrapping his rifle around my throat he kicked out the back of my knees so I was pinned at a kneel. I clawed at the gun as Jeremy stood up and got a grip around the barrel of his gun. He drew back with it came brought the stock down hard on my head. The rest was black.[/COLOR][/FONT]

[Drizzt Do'urden]

Jason woke up alone. The military was heartless, he and his parents were to leave at 0300 hours that morning. They wouldn't budge, they wouldn't let his parents see him off. Instead Jason saw them off, through tears and the moans and shrieks of his mother. They embraced, wept, and then his parents were gone. Jason returned to the empty house alone. He laid awake on his bed, the only piece of furniture left, for what seemed like hours. He finally got to sleep around what he thought was 5:00 A.M. He awoke at what he guessed was about 6:00 A.M. to someone beating on his door. He looked out his window, that was directly over the door. He saw Jenna Smith standing at the doorway.

She was only a couple years older than him, and though he never spoke with her he always noticed her. He got dressed, went to the door and opened it. Jenna was as beautiful up close as she was from a distance. She smiled as he opened the door, "I was passing by on my way to the wall, and wanted to make sure that you were up. I know your parents left you, and since I'm leaving by myself. I thought maybe we could leave together?"

It was like a dream come true, Jason didn't even miss a a beat. "W..Well yeah that'd be great. I'm all ready if you want to head out now." His day had started to look up this early. The two walked and talked about their parents. What they would miss about them, what they would miss about northwatch, and every little thing they could think of. When they finally got to the gate, they were the last two to arrive. The 5 others had already piled into the back of a large covered army transport. Jason had always hated this, you could see only a small portion of anything through rips in the canvas. That's how jason had seen the countryside before, from cracks in the trucks.

They piled inside, it was nice. Usually they made jason's family pack the trucks full with them and their furniture and all their worldy possessions. This time it was only people and some luggage, it was great. An hour into the ride, Jenna fell asleep with her head on Jason's shoulder. He smiled as he could feel her breathing, a sudden thought caused him distress though. [I]"What if this is some sort've underhanded trick by the government? What if something could happen to me or her."[/I] He pushed Jenna's hair out of her eyes. "Don't worry, I won't let anything happen to you." It was a promise he hoped he could keep...he had to.

After what seemed like an eternity they were usherd out of the trucks. There were already well over 500 people standing in mass. Jason took Jenna's hand, she blushed a little, so did he. They stood and waited for something, anything to happen...

[Astdis]

[COLOR="Navy"]Bailey watched in a detached state while her brothers loaded some of her things onto the waiting wagon. [I]She was going to the wall. She?d get to see and know finally what happened to those who crossed, what had happened to her father and brother. To know finally if it was as good as the soldiers wanted them to believe? or not.[/I] Glancing back around the house she saw her mother enter the room and collapse helplessly into a chair. Bailey went a knelt beside her.

[B]?Mama? Mama I need you to listen to me.? [/B]her mother nodded her head but remained silent, Bailey pressed on [B]?It may not be that bad. Just because no one?s come back doesn?t mean it?s a horrible life, may just mean there?s no way to get back. It could be great. Could be where all the taxes go, we don?t know.? [/B]Her mother just stared into the fire, unblinking.[B] ?I need you to do something for me. I need you to look after Violet. She so little and she has no family left in the village that can care for her. She needs you mama.? [/B]Her mother turned and hugged her hard and tight. Bailey understood and returned the emotion with the same vigor. They remained like that for a long moment until her older brother poked his head into the room.

[B]?You?re all packed up. And Kevin has groomed and saddled Bunchberry for ya.?[/B] Bailey nodded and stood, gripping her mother?s hand firmly, then she turned and walked out of the house. Her uncle was tightening the ropes when she approached the wagon He leaned close and whispered so the soldiers wouldn?t hear

[B]?Your knives are in the saddle bag.?[/B] Bailey gave a small smile and hugged her Uncle before mounting her horse. Her brother pulled his stallion beside her.

[B]?What are you doing Aaron??[/B]

[B]?What does it look like? I?m riding with you.?[/B]

She glared at him with a mistrusting look. He turned to her [B]?Just to the wall. I promise not to do anything stupid.?[/B]

Bailey smiled at this [B]?Fine then, and thank you.?[/B]

Aaron nodded as the soldier announced they were to begin moving...[/COLOR]

[I]OOC: FYI, not posting again between this and the wall, so assume Bailey and party reach the wall uneventfully.[/I]

[Raiha]

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"][i]When Milo woke up, he opened his eyes to find Shali's breasts hovering inches from his face. At first he was inclined to believe he was dreaming, until he moved slightly and felt the bump on his head shoot lances of pain through his brain. He tensed up, only to feel Shali's hand stroking his cheek and the soft murmur of her voice reassuring him.[/i]

"They picked me too Milo. It's okay, we'll be together."

"W-W-...Why?"

[i]His eyes finally focused on her face, and he felt her hand squeezing his gently.[/i]

"They probably want breeding pairs for wherever we're going. Now go back to sleep. It'll make your headache go away."

[i]Milo began to protest, when he felt her body shift against him and finally came to the realization that she had her back against the side of a wagon, and his head in her lap. Cradling him with her left arm, her right was the one moving across his arms and chest. And that sweet smell was the scent of the lavender sprigs she'd sewn into the folds of her skirts. Lulled by both that scent and the warmth of his wife's body, the knowledge that they would be together in spite of the Lottery, he slept.

Shali leaned her head back, ignoring the jolting of the cart and sighed. The military escort was smaller, and Jeremy had departed from the company as soon as Shali's name had been called. She began to pick apart the frayed threads on one side of her skirt and pressed one hand against the small satchel she'd had time to pack. Her needles and threads were there along with her small silver knife, waiting to be used again.

"Shali Strae."

Her family hadn't cried and carried on. Instead they'd pointed frantically to Milo and she'd rushed to his side to catch him as he'd fallen. Milo's mother had pressed her bag into her hand, running to her house immediately after. She had kissed Shali's cheek and then rushed back to stand with her husband and their remaining children. Shali hadn't cried then, and now that she was still with her man, she couldn't cry now.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR]

[Vicky]

[size=1]As soon as the jabbing began he forgot what he was dreaming about and wondered if the poking [i]was[/i] part of his dream. He opened his eyes slowly to see it was day time now, the light almost destroying his retina. He pulled himself up and scratched his hair, blinking rapidly at the soldier, who had his gun positioned as if he definitely were poking Dante.

[B]"We're nearly here. Get up."[/B]

[B]"I am up..."[/b]Dante mumbled.

[B]"You'll have longer to wait, everyone else has a family to say goodbye too."[/B]

[B]"I already said my goodbyes."[/b] Dante defended hoarsely. He groaned and sat up from the floor of the military vehicle (ironically right when it decided to run over a rough patch and cause him to jolt) and stared back at the soldier.

[B]"And they didn't want to come with you?"[/b]

Dante didn't reply. He was still remembering that. The look on his mother's face... god, he wasn't going to forget that anytime soon. He turned his head away from the sun and the soldier and exhaled through his nostrils in frustration, the fact dawning on him that he probably wasn't coming back if no one else did.

The truck skidded to a horrible undignified stop and Dante fell in an undignified heap at the soldier's feet. The man simply raised his eyebrow and jumped off, rather not thinking it necessary to help Dante up at all. Dante brushed himself off and stepped off the vehicle, his vision directed to a path that led up to the wall.

He wasn't expecting anything less; the vines creeping up the sides and the wall itself probably younger than it seemed, like some ancient fortress that could easily have been knocked down by enough force. Dante didn't know anyone here, coming by himself, and he didn't really know many of the villagers who came from his land. He glanced at the soldier for some direction, who simply raised his eyebrow.

[B]"Well? Go on, then."[/B][/size]