RPG Final Fantasy: Prelude to Chaos

[DeathKnight]

[color=crimson][i]As Kitan began to get near Outpost 31, it seemed to be too quiet. Kitan's senses told him something was wrong with it being so quiet near the Outpost, not even sounds of every day life coming from the Outpost.

Slowing to a Stop, Kitan's eyes glanced around. Nothing but the landscape surronded him. It was all enough to send a slight chill down his back. The only other thing besides him, was the wind... His cloak blew in the wind, as he thought silently...

[b]Outpost 31 is unnatrually quiet. The last time I was here it was a bustling community. I wonder if somethings happened over the years? I dont know.... I wonder if i'll find anything to eat or drink there...[/b]

Nodding to himself, Kitan began to walk again, the deafening silence never wanting to leave him...[/i][/color]

[Mist]

[color=darkred] Mara beamed as Karu and Calya burst through the door, waving his tree gnomes triumphantly.
"I got some!" he exclaimed happily, followed by a blue Calya.
"Why the long face?" Alice asked him gently.
"I didn't catch any." Calya pouted.
Mara and Alice laughed merrily.
Karu grinned and dragged Calya off to his room, shaking his bag of gnomes happily.
Alice laughed transiently.
"So young," she said quietly, "and so free; to be youung again would be wonderful."
Mara nodded in agreement.
"It would be nice to be a child again, but come now, Alice. If you were a child, you would not be blesses with such a son, now would you?" Mara said.
Alice shook her head, staring at her hands.
"No." she whispered.
"He reminds me of you, Alice." Mara said, resting her head on her wrist, " except for the hair."
Alice looked up in suprise.
"Really?" she inquired, her eyes burning with pride.
Mara nodded, a lilthe smile upon her face.
"I'm afraid so." She mocked, attempting at a grave tone, but failing miserably.
They both laughed, but it was short lived as Mara's face grew serious.
"You understand, Aice, if I was to take Karu under my wing, you will be putting him in danger. He must accompany me to the Temple of Time, so I can find the root of this treachery of Father Time."
Alice nodded.
"I understand the danger, and I know," she replied, her eyes softning, "you will take good care of him, as you did for me."
Mara's head cocked to the side in confusion.
"You stood by me when I was with Karu, and unmarried at the time."
Mara smiled.
"That's what friends are for." Mara replied, her voice lilting.
Alice smiled as tears gathered up in her eyes.
"One of my men's left, now another goes." she mumbled saly to herself.
Mara rested her hand on Alice's again.
"I will take care of him, my friend. He will be safe with me, and we will return when it is safe."
Alice nodded, swallowing back her tears.
"Thank you." she whispered.
Mara just smiled.
Just then Calya burst out of the room a bright red, smiled, and left for the night.
Karu came out and Alice told him to set a pallet for Mara. He nodded and walked out of the room.
"When and what shall we tell him?" Mara asked, her eyes focused on her friend.[/color]

[Desbreko]

[color=indigo][b]Flash:[/b] Well, I'd like to see this for myself...

[I]Drake sighed.[/I]

[b]Drake:[/b] Right... how fast can you run?

[b]Flash:[/b] Umm... I'm not sure... Why?

[b]Drake:[/b] Because we're gonna be going pretty dang fast.

[I]Drake raises his staff, and casts Haste on Flash and himself. He twirls his staff in his hands faster than the eye can see.[/I]

[b]Drake:[/b] Off we go!

[I]The pair starts running back towards the Outpost, moving faster than a galloping horse yet not actually running that fast.

Flash grins at Drake, as they head down the path.[/I]

[b]Flash:[/b] Certainly makes traveling faster! But why are we running?

[b]Drake:[/b] Like I said, I want to do something about this quickly. This isn't something I'm going to let sit...

[I]A short ways before they get to the Outpost, the spell wears off. By that time, they're jogging along, and everything seems to become quiet. They both rest for a minute, out of breath.[/I]

[b]Flash:[/b] Hey... why's it so quiet?

[b]Drake:[/b] I noticed it too... The only thing to be heard is the wind and the birds high overhead... It's as if...

[b]Flash:[/b] Time has stopped...

[I]They both stare at each other, wondering what this could mean... Whether it could actually be possible, or if they're jumping to conclusions...[/I]

[b]Drake:[/b] It'd take a [i]really[/i] high time mage to stop time in an area this big...

[b]Flash:[/b] It would explain why there'd barely be a trace at the Outpost. If everyone's stopped, then they couldn't put up much of a fight... It's a good thing you were camping a ways from the Outpost, whatever happened...

[b]Drake:[/b] Everything was normal where I was... It wasn't until I got into the Outpost that I noticed something was wrong... But wait, what about that trail of blood? If everyone was stopped, why would there be signs of a fight?

[b]Flash:[/b] Another time mage, perhaps? Maybe there was one there, and he tried to put up a fight?

[b]Drake:[/b] That's the only thing I can think of... But what about us? Why can we move freely about? Would it only stop the people that were in the area?

[b]Flash:[/b] And not affect other people that enter the area? ...Seems like it... But why would time continue to be stopped?

[b]Drake:[/b] ...I don't know... Anyway, lets get going again...

[I]They start off again, walking now, each with his own thoughts about the situation.[/I][/color]

[Flash]

[i]Flash quickly turned to Drake, realising that there was someone who could help them with this enigma...[/i]

[b]Flash:[/b] The grey elves, of Glorethroth... Their high mages and priests have always been masters of these sorts of thing...

[b]Drake:[/b] Hmmm... That's a fair way to go.

[b]Flash:[/b] Indeed... I think we should head to Krysst first, as you suggested.

[b]Drake:[/b] Sounds good... Are there any fighters in Krysst.

[b]Flash:[/b] Well, I... I mean, there's a Baron there... Vince--

[b]Drake:[/b] Baron Vincent Verdigris, yes, the womanising one... I think everyone knows of [i]him[/i]...

[b]Flash:[/b] Err, yeah... Anyway, I know that all of his manor staff are trained to fight and defend.

[b]Drake:[/b] Oh, really?

[b]Flash:[/b] That's right... About 50 or so, is my guess...

[b]Drake:[/b] Hmmm... Any woman in his staff?

[b]Flash:[/b] ...You're joking, right? Try [i]all[/i]-woman staff.

[b]Drake:[/b] Jeez... He's worse than I thought...

[b]Flash:[/b] No, no, he's a great guy, once you get to know him...

[i]Drake raised an eyebrow, and Flash shrugged. Together, they head back towards the path across the mountains, eastward towards Krysst...[/i]

[Break]

[i]As Sheila flicked through the pages of the book about rocks she heard a noise at the door. She closed the book and stood up to find herself looking directly at two Ninjas.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] ...! Who are you?

[b]Zayle:[/b] It's me, Zayle.

[b]Sheila:[/b] Zayle..? How can I be sure that it is really you?

[i]Sheila looked him up and down and spotted his sword.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] Take out your sword, I just want to check something..

[b]Zayle:[/b] Sure.

[i]Zayle took his blade out of the sheath and handed it over to Sheila. She looked over it and found Zayle's marking: a 'Z'. She then handed the sword back to him.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] Zayle... it is you.

[b]Zayle:[/b] Yeah, it's been a while, Sheila.

[i]The two then hugged, as old friends do.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] I haven't seen you for so long, I... I thought I'd never see you again.

[b]Zayle:[/b] Ditto.

[b]Sheila:[/b] Wait, who is that?

[i]Sheila had only just really noticed the second Ninja standing behind Zayle, looking down at the floor. He looked up at the mention of Sheila talking about him.[/i]

[b]Zayle:[/b] Oh, sorry. Sheila, this is Gael.

[i]He then turned to Gael.[/i]

[b]Zayle:[/b] Gael, meet my old friend, Sheila.

[b]Gael:[/b] Nice to meet you.

[b]Sheila:[/b] And the same to you.

[b]Zayle:[/b] Oh yeah! I almost forgot. The shopkeeper at the port told me to give you this..

[i]Zayle handed Sheila her upgraded Dragoon Spear, she examined the head that Taran had made better.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] Thank you, Zayle. Taran sure is a good frie--

[i]Suddenly the trio heard a huge explosion come from outside, it was so loud that it shook the ground slightly.[/i]

[b]Gael:[/b] What the hell was that?!

[b]Sheila:[/b] I don't know, let's go outside and take a look..

[i]Sheila took her hat off of the hook and then walked outside, Gael and Zayle followed her. It had now started raining. The magnificant blue that was in the sky only a few minutes ago was now hidden by overcast black clouds. No one was in Baard Square now, the wonderful soft grass in the centre was becoming a muddy mess as the rain got heavier.

Suddenly, someone came running up to them, splashing through the puddles. It was Taran with his coat on, he was clutching his arm in pain and was absolutely soaked through. When he got to Sheila, Zayle and Gael he instantly fell on his knees.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] Taran!

[i]She hurried over to him and helped him up, holding his arm around her shoulders.[/i]

[b]Taran:[/b] Quick... the port..

[b]Sheila:[/b] What about it?

[b]Taran:[/b] No time... to explain..

[i]Taran then passed out cold, Sheila felt his neck for a pulse, it was still there.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] Zayle, please take Taran inside and upstairs to my room. Wait until me and Gael return, okay?

[b]Zayle:[/b] Sure.

[b]Sheila:[/b] Thank you, Zayle.

[i]Zayle took Taran's limp body from Sheila and went inside with him.[/i]

[b]Sheila:[/b] Come on Gael, let's go to the port..

[James]

[i]Alice lowered her head.[/i]

[b]Alice:[/b] Karu is a strong boy. I think I can tell him the truth. He'll find out of his own accord anyway...

[b]Mara:[/b] You sure, hun?

[i]Alice nodded.[/i]

[b]Alice:[/b] Yes, I'm sure.

[i]A few moments later, Karu entered the house once more. He sat down at the table with Mara and Alice. Alice looked noticeably shaken, whilst Mara was doing her best to appear calm.[/i]

[b]Alice:[/b] Karu, I need to tell you something...

[b]Karu:[/b] I know.

[i]Alice and Mara looked at each other, then at Karu.[/i]

[b]Alice:[/b] You...know?

[b]Karu:[/b] Yeah, I know. I saw that man who came here today...and...I've noticed the changes around here...I know that Father Time is in trouble.

[b]Alice:[/b] ...

[b]Karu:[/b] But mum, I don't know what we can do...none of us are powerful enough to stop that group of Time Mages.

[b]Mara:[/b] I told your mother that I would investigate.

[b]Karu:[/b] What's there to investigate? You'll only get killed if you try anything...

[i]Mara sighed and tapped her fingers on the table, thoughtfully.[/i]

[b]Mara:[/b] I know....I know. I'm a time mage myself, but it's going to take more than my powers to overcome these villains...

[i]A lightbulb went off in Karu's head.[/i]

[b]Karu:[/b] Well, why don't we go and talk to my grandfather?

[b]Mara:[/b] You mean...Mahl?

[i]Karu nodded and smiled.[/i]

[b]Karu:[/b] He is one of the wisest men in all of Glorethroth. He's also a powerful white mage...I'm sure he'll have an idea about what to do. He lives in the mountains behind the city, so he's out of the villains' reach...

[i]Alice smiled and put her hand on Karu's shoulder.[/i]

[b]Alice:[/b] Sometimes you amaze me...

[i]Karu smiled at his mother and turned back to Mara.[/i]

[b]Karu:[/b] Well?

[i]Mara glanced at Alice for a moment, before looking at Karu. She knew that Karu was a special child...and she was well aware of his grandfather's abilities. She realized that it would be pointless to investigate this matter herself and it would be most wise to talk to the most powerful white mage in Glorethroth.[/i]

[b]Mara:[/b] Sure, let's see him. :)

[i]Karu grinned and hopped off his chair. He walked down the hallway toward his room, talking as he went...[/i]

[b]Karu:[/b] We're gonna need supplies to get up there! So you should probably stay overnight, Mara...and we can leave tomorrow...

[i]Mara and Alice laughed.[/i]

[b]Mara:[/b] That kid's got some fire in him...

[b]Alice:[/b] He takes after his father. He's strong...stronger than me. Mara, I'd really appreciate it if you stayed here tonight. We can give you dinner and breakfast...and you can take Karu with you. A good night's rest and a good, hot meal is the least you deserve for all your efforts.

[i]Mara smiled and nodded.[/i]

[b]Mara:[/b] Thank you, Alice. :)

[Shy]

[size=1][color=darkblue]I am VERY sorry for not posting in the rpg sooner, I have been so busy studying for my final exams that I wasn't able to post on OB. Once again, I am sorry.
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[i](Edwin sits quietly in a small tavern, sipping a small mug of ale as he watches a beautiful woman across the room. From his backpack Edwin pulls out his wooden mandolin and begins to play a slow melody while staring directly into the eyes of the woman. After a few simple lines the woman runs over to Edwin and begins smothering him with kisses)[/i]

[b]Woman:[/b] That song was beautiful, are you a Bard?

[i](Edwin pulls a small mirror from his pocket, looks into it and fixes his hair)[/i]

[b]Edwin:[/b] Why, yes I am. Do you happen to... like Bards? *winks*

[b]Woman:[/b] I have great use for you. Come with me immediately so that we can help my father.

[b]Edwin:[/b] I seem to be confused.. so you [i]don't[/i] want to kiss me?

[b]Woman:[/b] My father needs help, and he needs someone with a wonderful voice.

[b]Edwin:[/b] No thanks, I don't seem to get along with parents... if you know what I mean. *winks*

[i](The woman grabs Edwin by the shirt collar and drags him out of the tavern. Edwin begins kicking and screaming, but the woman is able to overpower the simple Bard.)[/i]

[b]Edwin:[/b] Ahh! Where are you taking me?

[b]Woman:[/b] We are going to meet my father; there me and my sisters will use you to..

[b]Edwin:[/b] Sisters? Use? I am beginning to like the sound of this.

[i](Awkward pause)[/i]

[b]Woman:[/b] .. we are going to sacrifice you to our god, that way we can resurrect our father, the evil dark mage of light.

[b]Edwin:[/b] Sacrifice? That doesn't sound good..[/color][/size]

[9mm Avenger]

As have I..damn finals...
-----------------------------------

[i]Marth continued to wander through the wilderness, as he saw something on the horizon, and took him a second to recocnize what he was staring at.[/i]

[b]Marth:[/b]:A village...?

[i]Marth continued twords the village, and hears screams and thrashings, and begins to run. As he enter's the village's threshold, he sees a woman dragging a bard twords a decrepid old man, and two other women. The way the bard was struggling made Marth think that this wasn't what he thought it was.

Marth drew him sword and shield, and rushed forward. The bard, filled with anxiety and confusion, let out a gurgled scream, half way between saying "Help me!!" and a terrified yell. The woman dragging the bard turned around, and blasted a energy shot at Marth. Marth, used to fighting Mages, raised his sword, and just when the energy ball was about to fry him, he batted the ball with his sword, sending it flying into the woman, who went down with a scream. The old man raised a staff and shot a purple beam of light at Marth, who dived and rolled, as the beam smashed into a abonadoned building, blowing it apart.

The bard scrambled out of the way as Marth swung his sword at another energy ball, batting it tword the man, who went down with a gaping, burning hole in his chest. The remaining two women broke and ran, obviously less powerful than Marth.

Marth reached over and grabbed the bard by the scruff of the neck, and stared down him.[/i]

[b]Marth:[/b]Well? Didn't your parents teach you to say thank you?

[b]Bard:[/b]I don't need to say thanks. I could've handled those women by myself. I have an excellent left hook, see?

[i]The bard swung a punch at Marth, who let it hit him. The punch made a sickening smacking noise, but that was only the noise of the bard's tendons popping.[/i]

[b]Bard:[/b]*cradles fist*Didn't hurt...Ow. Um..Thanks. My name is Edwin.

[b]Marth:[/b]My name is Marth. You bards. Always thinking with your crotch.

[b]Edwin:[/b]I was not! I was meerly...Um...Never mind.

[b]Marth:[/b]*sigh*You don't know how many bards I've saved from women mages...

[Raquel]

Siren blinked rapidly unwilling to come to reality... She streached and stood... Night had come and gone... Now the first beams of dawn streamed across her face... She shook the dew from herself and transformed into a bird... Flaping her wings she rose above the trees... She weeled twice then headed to Outpost 31 for supplise... *later* Landing several miles away Siren pulls bits of feather from her hair... Pulling her hood up she begins moving north to the outpost... She slows and listens for any sounds of life... Silence... Siren moved quietly through the apperently abandoned buildings... Coming out onto the main street siren looked up and gritted her teeth...

Siren: Time mages.... I'm going to have to go back... This is getting out of control...

Turning she ran through the outpost and back twards the elven city... Thoughts flashed through her mind as she ran... Her body grew longer and furry... Siren tore off, a streak of black and red...

[Desbreko]

[color=indigo][B]Drake:[/B] So, do you know him, then?

[B]Flash:[/B] Well... I guess you could say that...

[i]Drake, not overly curious about the matter, decides to change the subject. Afterall, who wants to talk about a horny baron anyway?[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] Yeah, I guess going to Glorethroth would be a good idea...

[i]Drake's voice seems sad, almost reluctant to the thought of going to Glorethroth.[/i]

[B]Flash:[/B] ...Something wrong?

[B]Drake:[/B] ...I guess you could say I've had some bad experiences there... Glorethroth is my hometown. No, not my howntown. I never really had a home...

[i]An awkward silence follows, for a couple minutes as they continue down the path... Finally, Drake breaks the silence.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] If you can't tell, I'm not really used to company... Talking isn't one of the things I'm good at, I guess...

[i]Another awkward silence, for another couple minutes.[/i]

[B]Flash:[/B] Maybe you just need some practice... No time like the present... So why'd you become a white mage?

[B]Drake:[/B] I don't like seeing people suffer... I don't want people to have to go through what I've been through...

[B]Flash:[/B] Oooookay... that wasn't the right question to ask, I guess.

[i]Drake looks over at Flash and grins.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] Yeah, I guess not. You really blew it, didn't you?

[i]Flash grins back.[/i]

[B]Flash:[/B] At least I didn't ask about your ponytail.

[B]Drake:[/B] Hey, you wanna see a neat trick I can do with it?

[i]Drake lowers his hood and casts Float on his ponytail, making it stand straight up in the air.[/i]

[B]Flash:[/B] That's really cool! I bet you could freak people out with that!

[B]Drake:[/B] I have, heheh... You should see the looks I've gotten. I'm just walking down the streets in a town, with my ponytail floating up in the air, getting all sorts of looks from people. It's hilarious.

[i]They continue walking down the path, not far from Krysst now, the path ascending over the hills.[/i][/color]

[Mist]

[color=darkred]
Karu's face split into a huge smile.
"Alright!" he cheered, jumping up into the air, "I'll get you pallet ready!"
Karu ran towards the other room, hitting the door's lining on his way out. Alice and Mara watched him go and then glanced at each other, their eyes laughing.
"Well," Mara said, sitting back down in her chair," He took it better than I expected."
Alcie chuckled and shrugged.
"Guess so."
The two women laughed as Alice sat back down.
"I'm sorry that you won't be coming with us."Mara said quietly, playing with her jade ring.
Alice caught a glimpse of it and smiled softly.
"Still waiting?" she asked, her eye set intently on Mara.
"Yes," Mara replied, hiding her hand under the table, " but let's save that conversation for another day, alright?"
Alice nodded knowingly.
"Alright."
Karu then burst into the room, breathless.
"All ready!" he exclaimed.
Mara stood up and patted Karu's head.
"You are definitly your mother's son." she said, a bright twinkle in her eye.
Karu's head tilted to gaze at his mother.
"What does she mean, ma?"
Alice grinned evily.
"She's a time mage. Who knows?" she replied.
Mara spun around, hands set on her hips.
"Hey!"
Alice and Karu burst into laughter, somewhat reluctantly followed by Mara.
"Karu," Alice said, finishing off her last giggle, "Why don't you go to bed? You have a very big day tommorow."
"Awe, come on, Ma! Five more minutes." he protested, his face pinching.
Alice's mouth hardened.
"Karu." she warned.
"Oh, alright," he said, walking into the next room.
Alice smiled.
"I'll be there in a moment!" she called after him.
Alice turned towards Mara.
"Good boy you have," Mara stated, "Good boy."
Alice's smiled transiently, her eyes misting. She walked towards Mara and grasped her two hands.
"You will take care of him, won't you?" she asked, squeezing her friends hands.
Mara smiled warmly.
"Of course. Now go say goodnight to your son. I'll find that pallet."
Alice hugged Mara.
"Good night...and thank you."
"No problem. Sleep well, Alice."
"And the same to you, Mara."
Alice then walked into the other room. [/color]

[Guest Zeh]

[COLOR=indigo][i]Zayle could hear noises from outside as he rushed in Sheila's house. He placed Taran on her bed and tied a rag around his arm, where there was some blood seeping out. He looked around to see if there was anything else he could use. Nothing. This would have to do. By this time the noises were driving him insane. Zayle stood in the middle of the room and placed his hands together.[/i]

[b]Zayle:[/b] reyteh llashi....

[i]Zayles feet lifted slightly off the ground and he was glowing a strange yellow color. Beads of sweet were seeping out from his mask.[/i]

[b]Zayle:[/b] ORWYN!!!

[i]He disapeared.

He looked around to see he was on the docks. He saw something. A flash of a blade. The crosscut.[/i][/COLOR]

[James]

[i]As the sun rose the next morning, the city of Glorethroth was bathed in its warm glow.

Karu sat up in bed and looked out his window. He had a direct view of a large cobblestone street, which passed his house and led directly into the town center.

He blinked and pushed the two halves of the window open on their hinges. Outside, he could see a large group of Elfin workmen walking along the street, holding large signs in their hands. The steady stream of workers didn't seem to end; they just kept coming.

Some of them were mumbling to each other and others were chanting in tandem. Karu looked up at some of the banners. One of them was bright yellow with black elfin calligraphy on it, reading:

[b]ELVES DESERVE BETTER SAFETY CONDITIONS![/B]

Just behind that sign was another:

[b]NEXT TIME YOU SEND YOUR HUSBAND OFF TO WORK, HE MAY NOT RETURN![/B]

Karu was puzzled. He had no idea what the workers were protesting about.

Today was the day when he and Mara were due to leave the house. But before he did that, Karu wanted to learn more about this protest (which was becoming increasingly loud as the minutes passed). Karu hopped off his bed and put on the nearest clothing. He took some basic items and stuffed them into his pockets.

And then, he tiptoed down the hallway and out the front door, toward the town center...[/i]

[NeoCactuar]

[i] The sun slowly departs the plains of Galthun. In the city of Galthun, a single light is illuminated, in a room in what appears to be a forge. This is the forge of the legendary Cid Drawlen, possibly one of the most talented blacksmiths ever to grace the bustling industries of Galthun city. Apart from being a great blacksmith, Cid is well know for his travels, and can always tell a good story, like the time he fought a group of ten Tonberries, or the time he single headedly saved a village from a group of Wendigo. But telling these stories, Cid still wishes he was out there, in the world, creating new stories of his own, but he has a good life now, and he cannot leave all that behind...

Cid sits on a small wooden stool in front of an anvil. He holds a hammer in his right hand, and a piece of metal in his left. He slowly beats the piece of metal into shape, but this isn't just any piece of metal. It shines, with a whitish aurora, like only a dragoons armour could. Cid stands up, grabs a pair of tongs laying on a bench to his left, and takes the armour over to a large cauldron, containing water. He lowers the armour into the water with a loud hiss, and shakes it around to cool it down. He then lifts the glistening piece of armour from the cauldron. Now it becomes clear what it is. A picture of a dragoon, with water droplets glisten on a beautiful silver breastplate, only armour a dragoon could possess. Cid takes the armour in his hands, and turns towards his back-office. He walks into the office, and lifts a candle from a shabby looking holder. Cid then turns the holder, and re-inserts the candle. Just as the candle touches the bottom of the holder, four panels in the wall slide up. Revealing a Lance, a set of Elvin blades, a manikin for a breastplate to sit on, and a box. Cid walks to the panel opposite to where he is standing, and opens a large wooden box. He removes a long, sweeping cloak, a pair of black leather boots and brown gloves. He dresses himself in the cloths, and slips on his newly shaped breastplate. He then reaches into the box to get the last item. A brown leather belt, it has two inverted holsters at the rear, and a satchel on each side. He fits the belt, and moves to the next panel. He takes the Elvin blades, running his fingers along the edges before he slots them into their holsters. Cid then heads for the door, grabbing the wooden lance on his way...

Two men walk down a small street in front of 'Drawlen Forge'. They talk quit loudly, like old friends meeting after not seeing each other for many years. They walk past the forge deeply immersed in conversation... when suddenly.. one of then stops... he takes a few steps backwards, until he is directly in front of the forge gates. He stares at a sign on the door "Closed"...[/i]

Man1: So.. Cid's finally done it... he's gone... Again....
Man2: Well, who would have though the old fool would actually do it again...
Man1: Certainly not me... not... me...

[i]The men walk away, talking of Cid...[/i]

[Mist]

[size=1] [color=darkred]Mara leaned in the hallway, waiting for Karu to tiptoe out of his room. She smiled as she thoguht about how he was so like his mother, and even more like his father.
Sure enough, Karu's door squeaked open and his lilthe figure made it's way down the hall.
"Going somewhere?" Mara asked, a slight smirk on her face.
Karu nodded.
"They're protesting out there," he replied, his eyes bright, " and I'm going to find out why."
Mara chuckled.
"My, aren't we a curious one?"
Karu blushed.
'It's alright, but you must not, dear Karu." Mara said, patting the boy's head.
"Why not?" Karu asked curiously.
"Because your mother wishes you not to know of it. Please help me respect her wishes." she replied.
Karu nodded, knowing in his mind he wasn't going to listen.
"Now," Mara said, pulling a list out, "I'm going to find some supplies that we need for our journey. Please stay here."
Mara walked down the corridor and left quietly.
Karu smiled and waited, before leaving to see what the protest was about. [/size][/color]

[Flash]

about time, NeoC. :P
---------

[I]Flash and Drake stood on the hill nearest to Krysst, overlooking the peaceful sleeping city. All the lights in the town were off, save the street lamps and the lights in the window of one large house... Smoke billows out of the four chimneys of the house, and very faintly, classical music can be heard... Uplifting, mellow music. Drake looks at the house and grounds surrounding it... The gardens are very tidy and well kept, and the path leading to the house is lit up by several dim yellow lights. The main door is illuminated by two lights, creating an arc of light over the gold-rimmed oak entrance. Above the manor, the moon shines a pale white-blue light down over the tranquil town. The creek running through the town shimmers, and makes a quiet trickling sound.[/I]

[b]Drake:[/b] It's so peaceful...

[b]Flash:[/b] Very remote... But, because of the port a few miles out of town, it's hardly isolated.

[b]Drake:[/b] You know, I think this is the type of town I'd like to live in.

[b]Flash:[/b] Heh heh, it's a lovely place.

[b]Drake:[/b] Are the stores still open? The sooner we head out, the better.

[b]Flash:[/b] Well, come to mention it, I have--Rather, Vincent... has a shop that's always open.

[b]Drake:[/b] Did you just refer to yourself as Vincent?

[b]Flash:[/b] No... Now, just down there, slightly east of his manor...

[b]Drake:[/b] Do they have weapons, armour, and general items?

[b]Flash:[/b] The best. And the shopkeepers a hottie, as well.

[b]Drake:[/b] Heh heh..

[i]Flash and Drake continue into Krysst, towards Vincent's shop. In the distance, the howl of a wolf can be heard...[/i]

[Desbreko]

[color=seagreen][size=1]About time yourself, Flash! I've been waiting [i]forever[/i] for you to post! I really had no idea where you were going, in the post before you last... :twitch:[/size][/color]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
[color=indigo][[i]Drake and Flash head down the hill, towards the shop. When they finally get there, they open the door and walk in. Inside, there's a beautiful young woman behind the counter, reading a book to pass the long night hours. She looks up at the pair, and smiles.[/i]

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] Hi! Are you looking for anything in particular?

[B]Drake:[/B] Well, I could use some new boots. These are getting old, and it wouldn't do to have my feet hurting on the journey ahead.

[i]Drake takes off his left boot, and puts it on the counter.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] Do you have any like this, in a size nine?

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] Sure, just a minute! I'll go get them!

[i]Drake browses the weapons displayed in the front room, looking at the different staffs and knives. He picks up a large oak staff and experiments with the balance, swinging it around, testing the weight.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] You were right when you said they have the best here. This is a good staff, but I think I like my quarterstaff better.

[B]Flash:[/B] Come to think of it, you're the only white mage I've seen with a quarterstaff, instead of a regular staff.

[B]Drake:[/B] I find a quarterstaff more useful, when fighting... That, and it seems like it's better at warding off attacks, from a sword or something like that...

[i]The shopkeeper walks back into the front room, with a pair of boots.[/i]

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] Okay, here you go! Would you like anything else?

[B]Drake:[/B] Yeah, but I'd like to try these on first. Just a minute.

[i]Drake takes off his other boot, and then sits down and puts the new pair on. He walks around the shop a bit, until he comes back to the counter.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] These fit great! I'll also take three Ethers, and can I sell my old pair of boots?

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] Sure!

[i]The shopkeeper takes three Ethers out from under the counter, and sets them down. She rings up the boots and Ethers, and subtracts the price for Drake's old boots.[/i]

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] Okay, that'll be 5,500 Gil!

[B]Drake:[/B] Yeesh... almost out of money...

[i]Drake takes out his money pouch, and counts out 5,500 Gil. He then puts it down on the counter, and picks up the Ethers. He only has 2,413 Gil left, but now has five Ethers.[/i]

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] Thanks! Hope to see you again!

[i]Drake walks back over to Flash, who's looking thoughtfully at a deep, navy blue robe. Drake grins, and whispers so the shopkeeper won't hear.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] You were right, she is cute! Seems a bit hyper, too, though. So, you gonna get anything?[/color]

[Flash]

[B]Flash:[/B] Krystal.

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] You know my name?

[B]Flash:[/B] It's me. Flash.

[I]The shopkeeper mouthed an 'oh', understanding now. Vincent's staff were the only ones who knew of his alter ego, and were sworn to secrecy. He smiled, and she nodded.[/I]

[B]Shopkeeper:[/B] I'll be back in a minute.

[I]The shopkeeper left, and then returned a few minutes later with a bundle wrapped in a black blanket. Flash took them, and smiled at Krystal. She waved goodbye as Drake and Flash left the shop...[/I]

[B]Drake:[/B] You didn't pay for that?

[B]Flash:[/B] Oh, erm, I'm a regular customer. I've got a tab.

[I]Drake shrugged, and the two mages started off, heading south, for Azure springs... The trip would be long and treacherous, but they had sufficient cause. A cause that threatened the earth itself.[/I]

[NeoCactuar]

OCC: Oh and Desbreko, Flash is going camping for two days, so don't wait for him to post this time.
---------------------------------

[i]As Flash and Drake trudge along the path to Azure springs the sun slowly emerges from behind the mountain range of Krysst. The rays of light beam over the shoulders of Drake and Flash like gleaming tiger stripes...[/i]

[b]Flash:[/b]Well, the suns up...

[i]Just as the words leave Flash's mouth, there is a rustling in a nearby bush. Drake diverts his attention to it, and slowly walks over to it. He reaches out to pull a branch aside, when suddenly two chimera's leap out of the bush, and nock drake down.[/i]

[b]Drake:[/b] And the monsters are up too!!

[i]Flash leaps forward and assumes his battle position next to drake.[/i]

[b]Drake:[/b]Chimera eh... Flash! Try a lightning spell!
[b]Flash:[/b] Lem'me handle it...

[i]Flash raises his staff high in the air, and it begins to glow with a yellow aurora. Flash whispers an incarnation, as the clouds cloud over the blue, now turning black, sky. He then brings the staff down with a sharp [/i]"Crack!"[i] As a bolt of lightning shoots down from the sky and hits the chimera. The chimera falls onto it's hind legs, and shudders... it then stands up again, and shakes it's head violently...[/i]

[b]Drake:[/b] It doesn't seem to have done anything...
[b]Flash:[/b] Oh, oh... A magic resistant enemy...

---------------------------------------

[i]Cid has already passed Krysst, and is now on the road to Azure springs. Wandering, looking for adventure, on his way to visit some old friends in Glórethroth...

Cid is walking at a steady pace, as he comes to a bridge over a small, crystal clear, stream. As cid begins to cross the bridge, a site on the other side catches his eye. Two men, one wearing white robes with red hemming, appearing to be a white mage. And the other in blue robes and a straw or leather hat, appearing to be a black mage.[/i]

[b]Cid:[/b] Hmm.. what are a couple of mages doing out here... Don't see that every day...

[i]Cid continues to walk along the bridge, but stops again, when he hears a cry for help. He looks over at the mages again, and this time sees a monster in front of them...[/i]

[b]Cid:[/b] Wait a second!! That's a Chimera!! They need some help!!

[i]Cid breaks into a run, as he heads towards the struggling mages[/i]

--------------------------------

[b]Drake:[/b] Hey Flash, you better do something quick. I can't keep healing us forever.
[b]Flash:[/b] I'm working on it!!

[i]Flash reaches behind his robes, and draws an elven dagger made of pure silver from it's sheath. He lines up the chimera, and is just about to strike when he hears rushing footsteps behind him. He turns his head, just in time to catch a blur of silver leap into the air, and over his head. Flash turns back, and watches the blur come down on top of the chimera. Flash sees a Wooden Lance swing, and hit the chimera on its head with tremendous power, smashing it into the ground and killing it instantly. As the dust clears, Flash can make out a man a man, possibly in his early thirties, wearing a breastplate with a dragon carved into the front of it.[/i]

[b]Flash:[/b] A dragoon..?
[b]Drake:[/b] What, in these parts...

[i]The Dragoon jumps off the Chimera with a flip, and lands skilfully in front of Drake and Flash[/i]

[b]Cid:[/b] Names Cid...
[b]Flash:[/b] ...Flash
[b]Drake:[/b] ...Drake
[b]Cid:[/b] Nice to meet you
[b]Flash:[/b] Thanks for helping us back there
[b]Cid:[/b] No problem, you guys could use the help of someone with physical skills...
[B]Drake:[/b] Yeah, but were travelling lots, so it's hard to find company
[b]Cid:[/b] Were are you going..?
[b]Flash:[/b] Glórethroth...
[b]Cid:[/b] Well.. i happen to be visiting some old friends in Glórethroth
[b]Drake:[/b] Well, that settles it then...
[b]Flash:[/b] I think he means... Welcome aboard...

[Desbreko]

[color=seagreen][size=1]Whee! Warlock is finally back and posting again!

Edit: Okay, he [i]said[/i] he was going to be posting... GET OVER HERE, WARLOCK! [i]NOW!!![/i][/size][/color]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
[color=indigo][i]The three start walking down the path again, which is starting to get more and more shaded by the trees overhead. The group is starting to get out of the hills, and into the forest. Everything is quiet and peaceful, and a slight breeze is blowing from the south.

For a long while, no one speaks, and nothing happens. They just plod along down the path, which will eventually lead them through Kyue's Swamp.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] Starting to get a bit humid. The Swamp must be getting close.

[B]Cid:[/B] The types of trees are also starting to change. Not as many pines and firs anymore... Not sure what some of these kinds are...

[B]Drake:[/B] ...Hey Cid, wanna see a weird trick?

[B]Cid:[/B] ...What kind of trick?

[B]Flash:[/B] Hey, is it the one you showed me?

[i]Drake nods, and grins at Cid[/i]

[B]Cid:[/B] Um... okay...

[i]Drake lifts up his staff, which he had been using as a walking stick, and holds it in both hands. He raises it to eye level, and closes his eyes. His hands and the staff faintly glow white for a second, and then Drake lowers his staff... Suddenly, a man wearing black armor comes charging through the forest across the path, and runs straight into Drake. They both fall over from the impact, and lay there dazed for a couple seconds. Flash and Cid both stare, and try not to laugh.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] What the [i]heck[/i] happened?!

[B]Warlock:[/B] Ow... you tell me!

[i]They both stand up and Warlock stares at Drake, quietly laughing..[/i]

[B]Warlock:[/B] Dude, what's wrong with your hair?

[B]Drake:[/B] I cast Float on it... You don't like it?

[B]Warlock:[/B] Well, it looks pretty stupid, that's for sure!

[i]Drake glares at Warlock, staff at the ready. Warlock unsheathes his broadsword, and points it at the floating ponytail.[/i]

[B]Warlock:[/B] You want it cut off?

[B]Drake:[/B] If you try it, you'll regret it.

[B]Warlock:[/B] Lets see what you can do, then!

[i]Warlock swings his sword at the ponytail, which is standing straight up in the air. Drake ducks and rolls to the side, stands up and places both hands firmly on his quarterstaff. Warlock turns, and makes a great arc with his sword aimed at Drake's side. Drake holds out his staff and blocks the blow with the center of the staff. He then brings the bottom end of the staff up to thrust it at Warlocks belly, but the stab is parried with the guard on Warlock's sword. Warlock swings his sword up, forcing Drake's staff up at the same time, until the staff it at Drake's eye level. Then Warlock swings the sword over to the side and down, but Drake just manages to avoid getting his arm cut off by bringing the other end of the staff up to block the sword. Drake jumps back away from another swing, and Warlock takes a hand off his sword and holds it out, palm first, and shoots a fireball at Drake's head. Drake blocks it with his staff, and the fireball dissipates into the air.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] To bad I know Dispel... That would've hurt!

[i]Drake grins, and jumps back at Warlock, just as Flash tries to step between the two. Drake ends up hitting flash right in the face with his staff, and he staggers back a few steps. Flash swears under his breath for a few seconds, and then steps back to watch the two again.[/i]

[B]Drake:[/B] Oo! sorry Flash!

[B]Cid:[/B] Should I stop them?

[B]Flash:[/B] No, I want to see how Drake does... Stinkin' [censored] hit me in the [censored] face!

[i]Drake jumps at Warlock again, and brings one end of the staff around and then the other, and the first one again, in a quick combo striking high, low, and on the side. Warlock parries the blows, and counters with a quick thrust at Drake's chest, which narrowly misses when Drake sidesteps. As he does this, he casts Haste on himself, and brings an end of his staff up and scores a hit directly on the left side of Warlock's helmet. The staff rings off of the helmet, and Warlock is momentarily dazed. The effect quickly wears off, though, and Warlock brings the sword around in a slash aimed at Drake's ponytail, but Drake dodges... But he's not quick enough, and the swords guard catches him in the side of the head. As he falls to the ground stunned, he manages one last swing, and catches Warlock in the groin, right in a joint in the armor. He falls to the ground beside Drake, though for a different reason.[/i]

[B]Flash:[/B] Now [i]that's[/i] gotta hurt!

[B]Cid:[/B] Wow... a tie...[/color]