Journey To The East

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Ascending Fire 14,


*Mabija stood to the side with the two flaming scimitars sheathed in their special holsters at his sides. He was obviously a military man, his stance at-ease, wanting to be professional in front of his Emperor and Empress. His long red hair was free at his back, the yellow tips showing up like small embers around his ribs. His gaze strayed around the room to look at the others, not recognizing most of them but taking care to at least remember their face.*

*Lirimana looked at Ress and resisted the urge to raise her hand* So, I'm all for helping, you don't need to ask me twice. We have the Warbird, and some Cache Eggs for storage in case people need to take belongings with them. Do we know where we will put them? What kind of "sleeping" people are they?

* Fine ash stepped forward before Ress could answer, as if knowing the questions long before they had been thought up. His steps were silent, aided by his soft soled blue suede shoes* " The type of person is irrelevant... all we really know is that they are human sized and part of an ancient principality of the empire... making them citizens enough. Also..... and this is only a tiny part of why I am doing this..... there is a large group of the organization I work for that want them all to
be lost forever. I can't say I know everything about this, but if they feel saving them is a threat, I say it is a boon to this empire.... and unfortunately... we will be saving hundreds of lives.. the Warbird will not have the cargo space required to take everyone back"

Ress blinked for a moment.. surprised he had been blindsided like that, but quickly composed himself and responded* " Well then... we may have to resort to a caravan... that may be the only way to get so many people back from such a distance... and as for how far, I am afraid this journey will be out in the middle of nowhere... out near Larjyn"

Okay, well, I do have this... *Lirimana pulled out a piece of paper that had a list of vehicles of various types on it* I found this on my journeys in the last few weeks. Some of these should be able to transport a large number of people. I haven't really been able to look at it all yet, but I figured we could use at least one, maybe more. Larjyn is pretty far, but these transports should be able to make the trip just fine

* The man in the yellow spoke up, before clearing his throat, his yellow eyes shining a moment as if from some strange internal insight* " The location, is roughly 1100 miles to the southeast, and this needs to be traversed within a two week period, or else the people are doomed"

*Dal pinched his chin, nodding every so slightly.* "Yes, should these vehicles should work, though if we bring the ones that have space enough to carry those people to safety they may be slow... I have both a suggestion to make as well as a concern to note, give me but a moment I will return..." *Dal disappeared out the door where he searched for the nearest open to air section. The others would likely have heard something not unlike a sonic boom shortly after he left the room. Soon after, he came right back in riding atop a Cumulus Cloud.* "Ah ha! I Roaring Wave and I discovered these Air elementals a few weeks ago, with them we could send a group ahead of the transports to secure the situation and begin sorting things out... But I do have to bring up the subject of Imperial security!" *Dal looked around the room* "If all of us leave the empire to save these people, in light of recent events, how can we leave this empire undefended should our enemies see it as a chance to strike?"

*Arachnia spoke up, brushing a lock of hair from her face* While we're out I can send one of the young ones out to take inventory. The trip to Larjyn should take... *she took the paper from Lirimana and perused it, nodding to herself as she saw some of the options they had* a couple of days to a week if we take the Kireeki- Class Assault Skyreme and it would have more than enough room to carry us all and the refugees *she looked over at Dal'Lumen and his sudden and loud reentry* Though if you'd prefer those of you who cannot fly on your own could use one of those

* Glass looked around, thinking about what was being said, before speaking up himself, taking the corner of his ornate veil and rubbing it between his thumb and index finger* " Does that mean we are... flying? I mean... Whats wrong with having both feet on the ground... or all four camel feet on the floor? I would like to hear some more ideas before we commit to this flying idea"

Bright slammed his fist into the shoulder of his companion, letting out an annoyed 'HA!' as he did, then stooped over to look him in the face* " Don't be such a little bitch, Glass! There is nothing in the sky tougher than I am, and I am usually on the ground!... now that means that you should be afraid of me, and not any ruddy sparrow!... besides, The lady in yellow over there told us that people who cant take care of themselves need help.. and its our job as Delzahn, the strongest, bravest, and most noble people in all creation to help the lesser folk of the world and show them the error of their ways!" * He nodded, then turned quickly, causing his grey silk belt to smack glass in the back*

*Lirimana looked from one person to the other and took a deep breath, glad most of them were wearing veils... though none of that stopped her from noticing the attractiveness of the group and she ran her hand through her now-straight hair nervously. It was all she could do not to blush and remained focused right now. As long as they didn't talk or move she had more of a chance, that being impossible however, she found she was screwed. And not in any way she was particularly fond of*

* Sand stepped forward from where he had been leaning against the wall by the door* "Empress I've heard a rumor that your manse is able to move. If that's true perhaps we could take it if its able to leave the bounds of Imperveress."

* Now that Ress had a moment for the present, he looked about the room... landing his gaze upon the glowing golden cloud that Dal had been standing on... he walked closer getting a better look at this sentient cloud* "... is this what you were talking about?... what is to scout ahead? Wow... that is interesting. they are air elementals you say? Where do they come from and how do you tame them?" * Ress then poked the cloud, seeing how solid it was*

*Arachnia contained a sigh. this being one of her empire's secrets she had wanted to keep from the Silver Pact. If this man knew, they probably did, too. Then again, she had probably been a fool to hope that they would never know* Yes, it is capable of leaving Imperveress, though not in any sort of timely fashion. I'm aware that some of us are afraid of flying, but I feel that the Kireeki-Class airship is our most logical choice

* Wave patted Ress on the back, then pulled him up so he was standing next to him rather than hunched over looking at a cloud. Wave then promptly put an arm around Ress' shoulders* " It was Absolutely transcendent, Emperor! You see, we were in a bind, trying to find out how to get up above Bezair's manse and...." * He stopped mid sentence, then let Ress go, before turning to Dal* " But I think Admiral Dal could tell you better than I could... I don't exactly understand it anyway"

*Dal pressed his hand against his lips in the position to whistle for one of the clouds... but upon realizing he might deafen everyone in the room he withdrew.* "You call them, they were used during the first age to travel to the sky manses." *Dal looked up at Arachnia, and then over to Ress not sure what had just happened between the two of them.* "Well uh... yeah, they fly... And quite quickly, I thought they might be useful for scouting ahead indeed, or for individual transport when we reach our destination."
*Dal lifted a finger, not wanting the Cumulus to steal the other point he had made.* "But what of my concern for the empires security?"

*Mabija gave Lirimana a pat on the shoulder as he noticed her discomfort with all of the people nearby. He thought it was a claustrophobia issue, however, and tried to give her a bit more space. The other Dragon-Blooded interested him, having yet to actually meet one since coming here, though he was trying to remain professional and so he continued to stand and watch, deciding to absorb for now and speak up if he was actually needed*

* Ress' eyes became wide with surprise as he was lifted up by Wave. He tensed up as he was held like a crew mate by the Terrestrial, Wave. when he was let go, he heaved a sigh of relief and smoothed out his royal robes* " Well then..... so you summon them by...." * He tried putting his fingers to his lips like Dal just did... then looked around... upon seeing nothing coming, he tried blowing, but got nothing but a raspberry sound. Ress then shook his hand out, stood up straight and looked around to see how many people noticed that he had just done something so silly* "well then... very good job, Admiral! I would gather that will be very useful in future ventures..... a concern for security?... what has happened? are the manses further damaged?... has someone bypassed the grid?.. whats wrong with my empire?"

Tari hit Wave square on his cheek when he stepped away from Emperor Ress, causing the Dragon-Blooded to stumble, seeing stars for a few seconds* " are you thick, you soggy sap? You don't just grab a Solar Emperor like he is your cabin mate!... or maybe you are picturing him as one of your high breed whores back at our home,
huh?"

"Err... No Emperor..." *Dal shook his head, his eyes revealing an awkwardness to the outburst surrounding Ress.* " The Empire is safe for the time being... I was referring to the fact that we are all leaving it, which could be an invitation for those envious of our Empire to strike."

*her gaze jumped to Wave, who had her Mate by a large and crushing grip, resisting the violence that swished over her. The whistle and nonchalance he was treating it with forced her to release the tension in her shoulders . Tari, however, did nothing to make Arachnia more at ease and she took a step over to the group, keeping her voice light and her eyes demure* Are you boys getting too rough for indoors? If you feel the urge to display your.. dominance, then please do.. we can set up something so I can watch *she winked at Ress and the others, with her hand on her hip*

* Ress nodded, smiling as he patted Dal on the shoulder and stepped away from Tari and Wave* " No need to worry, Admiral Dal'Lumen! I have thought of that as well. I have posted Quar Zagot, Caress of Words, Dargo, Wise River, Sayana and.........." * He turned to look at Arachnia, a puzzled look on his face* " What was the name of you new recruit?"

His name is Urser *the Empress smiled, almost the polar opposite of a woman standing next to Tari and her loud violent ways*

* Wave reeled from the strike. Unsurprised that the tiny patrician could connect so solidly. He gave her an indignant look as he rubbed his cheek, then spoke in a tone that was equally as indignant* " What are you talking about?... you mean the spoils from the manses? Those were for us! I thought you would like them!"

"Ah yes! Urser! Thank you, Empress!" * he bowed to her, then turned back to Dal* " So you see, between them, the field gods, Sentinel and Zeriku.. we should have a safe empire all the same! But thank you very much for your concern, you can never be too careful when it comes to the safety of your people"

So... *Lirimana scuffed her foot as she looked around the room, seeing how distracted everyone was. They should probably start some sort of regular social group so that when they needed to meet they could not socialize as much. She looked sheepishly at the veiled group, having already noted the grey tones to Bright's hip-sash* Since it's become a party, I guess I should mingle? I'm Lirimana....

* The yellow robed man snickered a little as he stood back* " So they are calling you Dal'Lumen now, huh? Well then... if everyone else is calling you that, I will call you that as well"

*Neither his face nor body moved as his eyes snapped on Wave and Tari, the newest members of his Dojo. His eyes spoke volumes enough, warning both Tari and Wave to save their marital spats for some place that wasn't an official meeting. When Ress turned his attention back to Dal he smiled and relaxed, which was cut short with another shot of awkwardness as One Road addressed him.* "Err... Yeah... It's more like a title..." *He said quietly.* "EXALTS! and Patrician..." *His voice boomed through the room.* "We Have a Job to do, get your heads out your asses and let's act like it!" *The Admiral that had been training troops had come out when Dal noticed the room degrading into chaos.*
*He took a step and leaned forward slightly.* "When do we leave?"

* Tari pushed Wave in his armored chest, making him stumble again* " Save it, Cynis... I know you would rather I look like your sluts... wet and blue and...voluptuous!" * she put her hands on her chest, emphasizing her petiteness* " Plus, I am a patrician, and I know you always wanted to be with a real dragon!" * Tari stopped in mid nag when she heard Dal yell, turning to him as if wondering what was wrong*

I am not one of your underlings, Admiral *this last word Arachnia said with a bite, allowing her lack of appreciation into the sound* so if you would be so kind as to not shout at me when I am standing right next to you, it would be appreciated. In case you hadn't known this about Lunars, but most often we have top-notch hearing, and I would like to keep mine

I think she's hot.... *Lirimana shrugged, not realizing that she had said that out loud*

Bright looked from Dal, then back to Lirimana, taking her hand and shaking it between his own* " Well hello, Lirimana was it.... I know he was talking to you, but I am neither an Exalt, nor a Patrician. So you are a Solar? I have heard stories that you are all monsters, but I believe now that they are simply satire gone wrong....?" * He then looked over to the grey haired woman who had been lording over the dragonblooded.. then looked back* " I think she is too... but then again I am not a Dragon"

* Ress jumped when he heard Dal shout, his hair spiked up in random directions as a look of shock crossed his face.He quickly ran his hands through his hair, and re-composed himself... it was not becoming of an emperor to be startled like this* " Yes.. Thank you Admiral.... Well then, I think that we should all move to wherever this flying thing is immediately... there is little time to waste"

*A pulsing vein pounded to the surface of Dals temple, and his eyes rolled to the top of his vision. * "Not... you Empress..." *Dal looked around at the room that had not payed attention for a moment to his commanding voice, he grabbed his face and exhaled. He wanted to say, If she was going to pull rank on him, then she should be the one doing something about the condition of their 'Urgent' meeting.*

I'm sorry, you "think she is, too" what? Yes, I am a Solar, and I'm sure there were monsters, just like any peoples can have *she shook his hands with her one, doing her best to ignore how warm and sure they were. Dal's outbursts were normal to her already, though she already encountered only a few, so she just looked up at him for a moment, trying not to laugh at how freaked out he was becoming* Come on, we can talk and walk at the same time *she looked over at Glass* Sorry, hun, it looks like we're flying

*the Empress smiled and patted Dal'Lumen's face gently* Take a deep breath and let's go. I already gave my plan so I've been ready since then. Once you have children you'll be able to deal with this sort of thing better. Until then, my advice is to breathe deeply *she took Ress's arm in hers and led him out to her waiting Manse where she would take the large group to the plateau Lirimana had found the airship in*

* Sand couldn't help flinching slightly at hearing the Exalt call Glass "hun"*

* Tari's cheeks tuned a little pink when she heard two comments about her, then smacked wave* " you see! at least someone around here likes real women come on... lets go before you see a daughter of Danaa'd and abandon the cause to sleep with her" * tari turned and began making her way down to the underground water way*

*Dal grumbled quietly to himself, sat down and floated out of the room stiff shouldered behind the Emperor and Empress atop his glowing cloud.*

* Ress was tugged slightly by Arachnia, then went along with he in the direction of the Lunar manse* " Well then.. meeting adjourned!... all reconvene at the Unknown Plateau!"

*Mabija waited until everyone else was filing out the door before bringing up the rear and closing the door. This was a spirited bunch, but he'd been watching the clock, and a surprisingly small amount of time had actually gone by for all that they had gone into. If they had two weeks and it would take them one or less, he supposed they could waste an hour chatting. Though they did have a whole week to get to know each other better....*

* Glass sighed and hung his head low, shaking it slowly from side to side* " I hate flying...... and I don't like heights much either...." *

It's not so bad, I'll be the pilot *Lirimana smiled warmly at him and led the group off in the direction of Arachnia's Manse. If Arachnia wasn't going to put up a fight anymore, she wanted to ride the Manse... The waterway was fun, but the Manse with Arachnia behaving was much more entertaining*

" Well then Lirimana.. I'll see you on the ship!" * he let go of Lirimana's hand and grabbed Glass, dragging him along so he did not slow them down* " Lets go wussy cousin Glass... lets get this done before you sully the name of Delzahn more than you already have.."

*Wave grumbled as he walked on, following everyone else to the manse while Tari took the waterway. He called up to Mabija as he wandered along* " Hey hot head!.... here is a little advice. Please... don't make my mistake.. don't marry a Patrician... especially one that you care about"

"This is going to be a very long trip" * Sand muttered with a groan and a palm to his face as he followed Glass and Bright out*

*Mabija looked over, giving the Water Aspect a scowl, not appreciating being called a "hot head" but gave a shrug and made his answer gain an air of casual taunting* It's not my fault you can't handle a woman with spice, don't take a dip if you can't swim

* no more than fifteen minutes later, the group had all arrived at the unknown plateau. Its ancient masoned stone covered in old vines, some of them bearing grapes strangely. A rather large hole still stood at the side, allowing a light-less entrance to the innards of this first age enigma. the two sidereals did not follow, perhaps staying behind to oversee some sort of inconceivable plot of some sort to better the nation which would undoubtedly take no less than five hundred years to come to fruition*

*Dals mood had improved now that he wasn't trying to get something done, and have every contingency accounted for while he was at it. He floated over to the hole and hovered around it, lighting it with the glow of his Cumulus. He looked over at Ress, and then to Wave.* "Hey Wave, Why don't you show the Emperor how to call a cumulus!"

* Bickering softly the whole way, Wave was still in an insult contest with the fire aspect, Mabija, while moving his arms around like an angry Italian man* " You know what water does to fire? it puts it out... don't make me do the same to you, match stick... I have stomped out childrens campfires that were tougher than you... smelled better too...... what?" * Wave stopped his insulting when he heard Dal speak.. then quickly went from irritated to overjoyed when he was told to give a demonstration* " Oh that! My pleasure!" * He promptly put his thumb and hooked index finger to his lips and blew, letting out a loud whistle* " any moment now" * and like he said, within a few short moments, a sentient cloud had zoomed down from the sky and landed next to wave. Wave slowly stepped upon it, causing the Cumulus to swell up and turn grey like a storm cloud* " And there you have it! Easy as falling off a log!"

*Lirimana stood to the left of the cleft in the rockface, slipping her fingers in a tiny crack. With a slight tugging motion she popped out a console with a keypad of some sort on it. The whole thing was in Old Realm and she sang a little song that sounded strangely like a slow version of "Ring Around The Rosie" while she typed something on the pad. Whatever she was doing seemed to work and the hunk of stone and vines began to shudder and part at the top, opening up and raising a platform with a myriad of doors. She took a door and opened it, heading in to the room that was stocked full of various aircraft and vehicles for transportation of all kinds. The platform had a landing strip and also homed some of the larger devices. Along the walls some were strapped securely and the service walkways for maintenance purposes. The Twilight went to a 300-foot-long ship that looked an awful lot like an orca whale and opened its hull, climbed in and disappeared to the cockpit, figuring that the others would find their way in*

In fact, fire boils water, and I can make you actually useful, to cook my food! That's all you're good for after all, can't even keep your wife happy! At least I could keep her warm at night, light her fire all night long! You couldn't even get a spark, that's what happens when you're all washed up *when his new archenemy was summoned away he smirked and said something under his breath that sounded like "can't touch this"*

*Arachnia ignored the bickering buffoons and followed Lirimana inside the plateau. As much as she found her company distasteful, at least the Solar woman was quiet... and looking at something that the Empress found interesting*

* Wave stopped and watched Lirimana.. finding it weird that first age solars all had such strange sounding passwords for their entry... but results were what mattered. when the plateau opened, Wave's jaw dropped. he flew his cumulus upwards onto the suspended platform, landing near the large whale like ship that Lirimana had entered. he stepped off his Cumulus and dismissed it, causing it to fly off into the sky* " wow... we are going to fly that?! Damn... I cant wait!!"

*Surprizingly, Ress found the Cumulus more interesting than the Skyport. Soon as he saw the method used for summoning the cumulus, he went back to trying it for himself... but just as before, all he came up with was raspberry sounds. with a sigh, ress shook his head and too the stairway up to the platform in the skyport* " Oh well... I suppose it will just take practice"

* Apprehensive as always, Glass looked up at the flying devices which were parked up on the platform. He looked down at the stalk it was suspended on, and then the door that lead inside and onto the stairs* " Well... there is no fighting it...."

* Bright came up behind Glass, put him in a headlock and ran his knuckles against his corn rolled head, laughing all the while is his creepily feminine voice* " Of course you can fight it... but you cant fight me.. and I say we are getting on it... now then... get going" * He gave Glass a shove, causing him to stumble a bit towards the stairs*

*Dal hopped off his Cumulus as well, rubbed his hand across the top of it as if it were a dog or horse and gave it a pat, dismissing it as well, sending it on it's way. He then walked over to gander up at the airship they would be taking.* "Well damn, look at that!" *He leaned over and patted Ress on the shoulder.* "No worries Emperor, the whole whistling thing came natural to Wave and I, It's a Sailor thing..."

* Tari was the last to arrive, not as fast in the waterway as the rest were on the manse. Tari's eyes widened with amazement as the looked on at the sky-port. she put her hands together and gave a leap, squeaking as she did* " It looks like the sky-ports of The Blessed Isle!... except without the tacky patchwork! Its a pristine preserved relic!! And We get to ride one!!" * she squealed once more, sounding less like a martial arts master and more like a teenybopper seeing her favorite band live*

" Really?.. A sailor thing?" * He rubbed his chin as he continued making his way to the giant orca like ship* " you know, I used to sail a ship... but that was a sky canoe up north. Those were fun days... fun days." * Ress reminisced to himself as he stepped up into the airship and began looking around, getting more acquainted with this piece of first age craftsmanship*

*the Fire Aspect again stayed behind to make sure everyone made it on safely, chuckling a little at Tari's reaction. She wasn't really his type physically, but a woman that could fight well earned a slice of his respect. Once everyone had made it on the ship, he followed them up onto it, admiring the martial efficiency of the whole thing. This was truly something he could never see anywhere else in his lifetime*

"Huh... I've heard of those. All aboard then!" *He pumped his fist in the air as he strolled off to entrance of the flying whale, as if he were leading a charge. When he ducked through the door and glanced around to identify a cozy spot to call his for a week.* "Oi, where do we eat, and where do we shit!"

*Lirimana looked up from the consoles and gestured off down the hall* Down there, second door to the right for your intestinal needs and farther down are the sleeping quarters and the like. Now, who can sail a ship? I'll need some help since this one is so large. I'd really rather not activate the servitors if I don't have to

*Dal glanced down the hall, not having need of any of the aforementioned but it was always good to know when it came down to it. He turned to look at Lirimana.* "I can Sail, Wave should know a thing or two, and Ress just said he has some experience himself, so looks like we have a crew."

Good. Each of you take a seat, doesn't matter where, and get to work. I have an empire to improve and a community to save so let's get started *she smiled and went back to work, the ship starting up as she charted and prepared for takeoff*

* A loud squeal could be heard behind Dal as Tari overheard what they were talking about* " I can sail too! Do I get to be on the crew as well! * she leaped into the air, clapping her hands together as she did. before, she used to give the air of being far older.. but she made it obvious now that she was still a teenager.. abundantly clear as a matter of fact*

*without looking up, the Twilight nodded and gestured absentmindedly to a chair* Please do, pick out a chair and take a seat

* Sand stood watching Lirimana at the controls thinking. * " How are we on supplies? If we have to wake the people up to move them we will likely need a great deal. "

*Arachnia answered Sand, since Lirimana was working* We've already loaded more than enough food and supplies for the entirety of the lot of us, so there shouldn't be a problem. We finished that this morning before you all arrived *which might explain why Arachnia wasn't giddy about such an artifact.. or maybe she was and no one was around to see it. What a shame....*

* Tari squeed again as he hopped over to a seat, having forgotten completely that she was angry at Wave* " Just tell me what to do!"

* Wave laughed, happy to see Tari happy again. he sighed and took a seat at one of the crew posts, taking a look over the controls and readying himself for whatever was to come* " I am ready as well... I think I have these controls fine"

* Ress sat down at a nearby seat, readying himself to make this ship fly. by the looks of things, they currently had a skeleton crew.. but if it was enough to make work, then so be it* " Lets go save those sleeping innocents... the sooner we get there, the sooner we can come back!"

*Dal lumbered over to a seat and plopped down.* "I've been practicing the art of sailing in fact, all the old tricks are starting to come back!" *He spun his chair around to look at the flight crew, as well as the passengers. He snickered at Tari.* "Wave, when we get a chance, I have a couple things to give you, perhaps once we get underway and are at a safe cruising speed." *He looked up at Lirimana.* "There's a tradition Lirimana, we can't set sail till this ship has a name, what do we call her?"

Indeed, begin startup procedures. I've just finished completing the system checks and everything should be fine for flying. So as soon as you're ready we'll go *she looked up at Dal'Lumen and shrugged. Since she was practically self-taught she didn't have the need to name ships, but if it made the others feel better then why not* Seeing as it doesn't have one, we might as well come up with something. Anyone have a suggestion to put forth?

* Wave tapped his jade clad chest as he thought on what to name this huge orca like ship. A sky whale?.. a first age flying whale ship... a killer ship... so many attributes, so many ideas... but what to call it?* " .... The Sky Leviathan?"

As in the Lunar? Admiral Leviathan was a respectable man, but there are so many things named after him already. Perhaps something like Death's Lantern or Impenetrable And Glorious Eyes Of Imperveress? *Arachnia offered a couple of ideas that would fit in her mind. She had tried to keep it from being too much of one type of their large nation*

"Err... Well we're using it as a rescue ship... How's about, Sun's Deliverance?" *A very Priestly name indeed, as it praised the Sun. He raised his hand over the commanders chair, which seemed to flow with Essence, he intended to Christen the ship and its name.* "Whatever you decide, It shall be made known in the eyes of the Sun Lirimana."

" How about something short and to the point?.. something like.. 'People's Choice' * She gave a more quiet squee, happy to be a part of an Exalt's naming convention*

How about something more like Celestial Dragon? *Mabija nodded as he added his vote, though he did like some of the others also*

" How about... The Celestial Lantern of Absolution? Maybe just ' Lantern of Absolution' for short? But this is defiantly something we need... its never a good idea to sail a ship with no name" * he nodded, once more straightening his hair as he pondered some more*

* Sand folded his arms into his robe with a thoughtful look.* "How about Solar Wind?"

*Lirimana looked out at those who hadn't spoken* Anyone else have an idea or shall we close the poll options and begin the narrowing down? *Lirimana wouldn't even bother with the poll at all if she could find the ship's original name, but it had yet to be found, most likely lost to time*

"Well Lirimana... What is the message you would like to put across, It could give us a better idea for suggestions no doubt, I can think of at least 12 names off the top of my head... But I think we can agree, you found it, you get to be the one to guide us in the direction you want the name to represent."

Me? Um.... Well, this is only one of many ships, and it won't only be used for this singular mission. To give it one aspect for a name would be unfitting, so maybe just combine a bunch of our ideas and make it a short and sweet Glorious Absolution? It fits all of us in the empire and its short and it fulfills many purposes. I don't know what it was named when it was made, but I think we should pick one and be on our way. If we really can't stand the name we should rename it when we have more time at a later date

" Glorious Absolution?" * *Wave rubbed his chin as he thought this name over, turning it about in his hand as he did* " You know.. it has a ring to it"

*Arachnia nods, agreeing* The name sounds fine to me

"..." *Dals hand wavered and grew closer to touching the console.* "It may not be the only mission it will go on, but it will be the day it is remembered for... Is that your final choice?"

"EEE!!! Glorious Absolution!! That sounds great!" * Still glowing over being a part of this, Tari squealed and squirmed in her nerdy fangirl bliss*

I like it just fine. You don't think that today could be termed a day of "glorious absolution?" *Lirimana shrugged and leaned against her chair, waiting to get them moving*

"The name does seem fitting to me as well" *Sand grinned as he took an empty console-less seat*

"Oh indeed I like it, don't get me wrong, absolution is kind of my thing anyway... I just want you to be sure!"

Well if it's her final say it sounds like Glorious Absolution this ship is christened. Again. The votes are now majority so even if someone doesn't like it, then they don't get a choice. Me, personally, whatever this beautiful woman wants, she gets *he winked at her and crossed his arms over his chest*

*Lirimana blushed at that, trying not to reach up and cover her face. Maybe she should get a veil like the others had. Those would be very convenient for a condition like hers...*

* Ress Slammed his fist into his palm, laughing softly as he did* " It is settled then! This grand vessel will be named 'Glorious Absolution!'. I like it.. I like it a lot! If that is that.. then we should take this ship skyward! Everything seems to be falling right into place"

"Very well!" *His hand came down on the console and a flash of golden light filled the room.* "Under all that the suns light graces shall this ship ever be protected by him, every voyage it makes shall be made swifter and it's path be made in the name of the Maiden of Journeys; ever shall it ride the sky, lifted by the sky courts grace!" *The console burst into light, and a wave of gold shot from it like a ripple that covered the entire ship* {{15sxs Prayer roll}} "I christen this ship... Glorious Absolution!"

Cool, let's go *with that, she pushed the rig forward, the giant ship picking itself straight upward and into the sky. She turned toward their destination and in a few minutes they were almost over the wall*

* Wave hopped up out of his seat raising his fist out into the air then pumping it while he gave a cheer* " Woo Hoo!! A fully christen ship, optimized for rescue and we are on our way!! I can almost taste the glory of victory!!" * Wave then sat back down, heaving a happy sigh and readying his station* " I love when we do that

" You said it, Mister Roaring Wave. Onward and outward, time is on our side!" * He smirked, also happy to be in a blessed ship... it always did away with the fear of travel*

* the ship flew like a dream, smoothly through the air, cutting though the wind like a great and dreadful daiklaive. But not long after passing over the gates, the ship shook, as if hit by something very large.. but fortunately whatever it was, it was not dangerous, bouncing off the hull without a scratch. A screen like the transmission screen opened up before the crew, showing a birds eye view of the ground.... and the many hundreds of people below... but what was worse, standing apart from then and looking up, was the long haired figure of a person, sporting glowing tattoos which pulsed silver like a heartbeat... and in time with them, Arachnia's tattoos began pulsing as well*

*Dal spun around in his chair again and took hold of the controls, plotting courses, and going over the ships readouts. A faint glow of essence still lingering about him, his Cast mark glittering gently. It was an odd way to pilot a ship, but it seemed to come naturally to him, as if he had done it many times before.* "On course and burning clean, it's a straight shot from here, everyone kick back and relax, this is going to be home for a couple days..." *Dal stopped as the ship jolted, standing up as the view screen blinked on.* "What was that... who in the wyld is that..."

*Arachnia glared at the screen, her beautiful face becoming twisted for a moment before flattening back into its usual features* That, would be a Challenge. How lovely. Please touch down, this call must be answered *she brushed her hair over her shoulder and walked over to the door, preparing to disembark* Hopefully I can make this quick *the pulsing of silver glowed through her clothes as well as if she weren't wearing any, though she wasn't bothered by it*

*Lirimana brought the ship down and landed it neatly in an open space far enough from people so as not to harm them* Ready, the hatch it opening *and just as she finished her sentence the door slid open soundlessly*

*the Empress stepped off of the ramp to meet her challenger and smiled, making herself and her very scent welcoming and at ease ((activates New Friend Aroma)). Her voice was delicate and gentle, no hostility or aggressiveness to be noted* Hello and welcome to Imperveress. You must know who I am, or at least what I am. Please call me Arachnia. To whom do I owe this visit?

* The glowing tattooed woman walked forward on long strides. She was a tall eastern woman, standing at about six feet, with skin the color of light tree-bark. Her face was locked in a half sneer as she looked on at the woman in similarly glowing tattoos. She wore a barbaric yet sexy two piece outfit. Her hot pants were made of a strong, yet very soft leather made from a grell bear, and adorned with various trophies of battle ( fragments of bone, shards of foe's weapons, etc). Her top was of elk skin, cut into a v shape to show herself off while still being covered. Her hair was dark, but streaked with orange, like a great cat, her dark eyes following the theme..... but as soon as Arachnia had spoken, the beautiful cat lunar (app4) stopped in her tracks. Her tattoos stopped glowing, as did arachnia's. her expression went from grim and sneering, to excited and happy in nothing flat as her eyes became wide and starry. He went from a stride to a run, rushing to Arachnia, taking both of the Empress' hands in her own, grinning brightly as her starry eyes locked on Arachnia's* " Elder Arachnia?! Wow, the youngest Elder ever crowned by the Silver Pact! I Have heard the stories! I am a big admirer! My name is Kahn!..." * Her expression dropped into a frown a he let go of one of arachnia's hands and tunned to her people* " I only wish I could have met you under brighter circumstances... servants of The Mask of Winters have taken the land of my people.... I watch after them and sought to raise them as a nation like Halta... but now they are broken... we need help.. and I will gladly help you and your Empire in exchange for some safe land for my people"

*Arachnia smiled as her plan worked, and she took hold of the woman's hands in return, her smile becoming sad with Kahn's, her voice reflecting the expression* Kahn, I'm flattered to be known by you and yours. You are a fellow in need and I will gladly aid in the recovery of your land. The Mask Of Winters will know the wrath of the Chosen of Luna, and we will take back your land together. If you want to help, we are currently off to save a slumbering nation from certain death at the hands of a volcano. We only have a short time to save them so we are hurrying, but you and your people are welcome to stay in the empire if you'd rather not join us

* Kahn nodded, half happy smile and half battle ready smile. She motioned for her people to go on into the Empire without her, then nodded back to Arachnia* " I wouldn't miss this for anything... I am Kahn Red Talons after all... If strength is needed, there are few stronger in this cardinal direction" * she nodded to emphasize her boast, then leaned forward to kiss arachnia on her cheek, then continued on into the airship*

*Dal leaned over to try and get a peek out the door, confused at what had just happened, it sounded like a pair of life long girlfriends having a reunion outside. He shrugged and looked at Roaring Wave* "Heads up brother!" *He tossed roaring Wave something small and colorful that glinted in the light. as it soared through the air.* "Take good care of those for me brother." (wave receives the STONE OF THE SURE PATH and STONE OF JUDGMENT)
"One will ensure that you always find what you are looking for, and the other will mean that no man, woman, or being in creation will have an easy time keeping the truth from you!"

* Wave stood stunned until the last moment, when he reached out and plucked the two stones out of the air, then stared at them for a few moments, before setting one in his bracer, and another in his Daiklaive. he pumped his fist in the air in victory, then bowed to Dal* " Thank you, admiral Dal'Lumen. I am honored you would entrust these to me. I will guard them with my life and farther... just like that Dragon-blooded ghost in power armor"

It's very good to have you, then, my new friend *she managed to keep the predatory gleam from her eyes as she called out to the empire* Sentinel, take care of these new citizens, they'll need a place to stay until we get back to finalize the whole situation. The waterways would be best, probably. I will leave them in your capable hands *The Empress turned around and followed Kahn into the airship, happy to solve their "differences" quickly and efficiently. When she got to the others she gestured from Kahn to the others, indicating each one as she named them* Kahn, this is my Mate Ress, Dal'Lumen, Lirimana, Mabija, Roaring Wave, Tari, Sand Mirage, Roan Glass, and Grand Bright. Everyone, this is Kahn Red Talons, a fellow Lunar and new friend. She will be accompanying us on our trip to help us on our mission. We can talk as we fly, so let's get going

*Dal's eyes shot up on Khan as she entered the Airship, seeming to put his guard up, the viper in the grass that had quickly become the tigers stalking place as well. What Cho-Hi-Xo had said left him very unsure how to deal with the fact that she was now aboard. His eyes didn't leave this Khan person for a second as he spoke to Wave.* "Any time brother, I know you will take great care." *Dal then began loading his remaining hearth stones into his axes and gauntlets not unlike a soldier loading bullets into his rifle*

*Lirimana looked up once she had re-worked the ship into the air and on its course again. She stared at the beautiful warrior woman who had joined them and tried to speak but nothing came out. She took a deep breath and tried focusing herself, only gaining so much ground* H-hi... I'm... uh.. Lirimana

* Ress got up and bowed to Kahn, staying low as he greeted and addressed her* " Hello Kahn... I am Emperor Ress. If you are a friend of my wife, then you are a friend of mine. Welcome on the voyage on the airship Glorious Absolution! I believe you will enjoy your stay here in the empire.. but for now, we are on a quest to save lives."

*Mabija smiled at Kahn, recognizing a capable warrior when he saw one. He would have put his hands on his weapons except that Arachnia had said she was an ally. There was something very predatory about her that he wasn't sure what he thought of, but at least she was easy on the eyes* Are those tiger stripes? I've never had the pleasure of seeing one up close. I must say, such an experience was well worth the wait

* Wave greeted from afar, not getting up from his seat, simply raising a hand* " Hello Kahn! Welcome aboard. Extra help is always welcome"

* Tari squeed as they took off again, taking a few moments longer to greet Kahn than intended* " Hey Kahn! its good to have another girl on board! we gotta remind these boys that we are the dominant sex around here!"

* Sand stood and gave her a small bow, saying nothing he sat once more. The faintest hint of a frown crossing his face as considered just "convenient" the little meeting was*

* Bright raised a fist and cheered at Tari's words... then looked at his fist, then at everyone around and lowered it* " I mean... you are misguided, Tari.. a man's honor is in his strength and deeds... a woman's honor is in her body"

*Dal clicked a final Hearth stone into his Law, and stood up to address their new passenger. He clapped his fist in his palm before his chest and bowed, what had become his trade mark salute.* "Welcome Aboard Kahn Red Talons... Admiral Dal'Lumen... Please make yourself comfortable, we have a long trip ahead of us..."

*she cocked a brow at Bright but went back to her post as pilot commander and made sure they didn't go off course* If you have anything you need let us know, we'll do our best to make you more comfortable, Kahn. Since I'm flying this sweet giant here, I'll always be easy to find *she risked turning her head to flash a smile at Kahn*

* Glass chuckled a little as he patted Bright on the back, giving a nod of greeting to Kahn* " Don't mind Bright.. he gets nervous around beautiful women... its a compliment really... welcome to the team and have fun while you are at it!"

* Kahn bowed in response to the greetings, waving once she stood back up. she smiled as a gracious new member of the crew, till she laid eyes on Dal. she smirked and raised an eyebrow at him* " Admiral Dal'Lumen huh?... well hello, mister master martial artist... I am a master as well. Maybe I could spar with you sometime... bet I could make you squeal like a stuck pig on the Savannah "

*Dal's hands dropped to his sides and he cocked his head to the side.* "Certainly... My Dojo is always open... You can come join my students. Probably learn a thing or two..." *He smiled calmly, which disguised the venomous daggers that were his eyes, before sitting back down at his station and getting to work.*

*Arachnia took note of the two and their reactions, trying to not be amused but failing. This was pretty funny to her, actually, and she had to hide her face to keep from laughing. Dal'Lumen and Kahn, what a sight! Luna surely had a sense of humor* This will certainly be a ride to remember *her Moonsilver Black Widow Razors woke up and crawled down her shoulders to her hands where she petted and shined them*

* She laughed at Dal's comment then gave a wink before turning away and finding a seat* " We will see then... maybe the student will become the teacher. and you know, there are other ways a man and woman can compete, do you not, Admiral?"

*Lirimana started humming softly to herself so she could block out the speakers lest she not be able to handle it all* I'm going to set the controls to auto-crew now. Our course is going well and we're locked on *she fiddled with the controls some and soon was settling into her seat to pretend she was not surrounded by really sexy people*

" Arm wrestling?" * wave thought over what Kahn could have meant by that, not clicking at all in his mind.. maybe because he saw Kahn more as a warrior than as a woman*

* Tari promptly punched Wave square in his arm after he uttered such a stupid comment*

I didn't know it was going to be that kind of road trip. How unfortunate for me... *he chuckled some and leaned back into a seat to watch the others, not tired enough to sleep. He really should pick up a more motionless hobby... like calligraphy. Hmm... now if only there were some books on this ship for that sort of thing... Oh well, he could make his lesson plans for his troops while they waited*

"Excellent, Lirimana. So... what does everyone say about moving to a more.. roomier accommodation. I would imagine farther back would be the place to go... what does everyone say?" * Ress got to his feet and walked out of the cockpit and back into a cargo room*

*Arachnia got up and followed him down the hall, glad she brought books with her* We should also plan out the sleeping arrangements while we're all in one place

Sounds fine to me... *She stood up and shook herself, still debating over the option of a veil... maybe she would try it for awhile and see if she liked it... then again, maybe not. She could try a full face mask.. That could be cool... On the other hand, all of these could turn out really stupid...*

"..." *Dal shook his head at Wave and stretched his arms back over the seat and groaned.* "Yeah... sure... 'arm wrestling'. * His words pregnant with sarcasm* "I couldn't agree more... let's head back... Anyone else as hungry as I am?"

*the Fire Aspect shrugged and started off behind the others, not feeling the need to protect them from anyone anymore now that they were in the air. Kahn was dangerous, but if Arachnia said it was fine then she probably wasn't dangerous to them* I could eat

* Wave rubbed his arm, whimpering slightly a he got up and followed the cadre* " How was I suppose to know?... I didn't think warrior women were into that kind of thing.. this isn't my direction after all...... food sounds good!"

“No wonder you didn't think about what men and women do.... you haven't touched me like a wife in weeks” she sighed and rolled her eyes... perhaps more violent for that very reason* “We have food? I could eat too”

I'm sorry to hear that, Tari. There are ways to remedy his failures *Arachnia offered Tari a wink and put an arm around Tari's shoulders to whisper in her ear* (If you meet me later I can give you something to put him in the mood... with or without altering his state of mind chemically)

(really?! I am definitely interested)

(yes, of course. After dinner meet me near the control panel and I'll give it to you)

* Glass put his arm around Bright and lead him off with the rest of the crew, still chuckling* "Come on, grey sash man... lets go get you some food before you become more gender confused"

* In the cargo hold, there were 1,000 comforts chairs placed around tables as if set up for a cafeteria. against the wall, winter's breath jars were lined up,full of food to be kept fresh. the airship did not tremor or rattle at all as it flew through the air, providing the most comfortable ride possible*

*Dal nodded while he yawned, standing up when his face was no longer gaping open.* " Well then, let's have us some breakfast, seems a good time to get to know everyone we haven't properly met yet." *He strode behind the group, and clapped Wave on the back after hearing what Tari had said, saying nothing but rather pointing at him, with a telling look in his eyes as if to say 'you better make your woman happy'. He did however keep a careful eye on Khan while he walked to the back of the ship.*

Being married must not be all it's cracked up to be. I guess I should be thankful I'm still single then... *she gave a half-hearted huff to herself, muttering under her breath at the whole thing. They should be happy they have at least one someone to love who loves them back. Well, they always seem to make up in the end so no point in a lecture*

* Sand silently followed just behind Bright and Glass with a rather speculative look about him*

* Ress reached into the jar, gathering up the food within and placing it all on the table. he nodded as he stroked his hair, then looked to mabija* " Mabija... if you would be so kind... would you please heat up our food for us?.... you are after all best equipped for the task"

Sure *he took out one of his flaming scimitars and set them on their sheaths so they wouldn't burn anything before putting the food on top to nuke it. He wasn't afraid of the fire, just moving the food on and off of the flames like they weren't there until everyone's was ready* Who knew? Anyone really can cook! *he chuckled some as he re-sheathed his blades and went to his own food* Hope it's hot enough, if not, let me know and I'll put it in the fire again

* Kahn looked over the Dragon-Blooded with suspicion... she had met quite a few dragons and none of them were friendly. she did not know what to think of him or the one in blue, but she kept her eye on them both. she gathered up a piece of meat and began to chow down on it barbarian style.. somehow making this look sexy as well*

*Dal's eyes widened as Mabija pulled out those scimitars, he pointed at them, and then at the dragonblood, and then back at the scimitars.* "Those weapons... I wondered what happened to... how did you get those dragon?" *He spluttered.* "Last I saw those they were falling from the dead hand's of an Ifrit named Petren Conflare..."

Well, from what I hear while you were unconscious Admiral, Miss Liri here picked them up as a present for me. Now that I'm Daimyo Mabija, not just "dragon" I might add, she figured they would be perfect for me. Names are funny things like that *he patted the sheaths with a smile* Thanks again for that, Lirimana *he turned to face her with a sunny smile*

It was nothing, Mabija, really. Thank you for making my food more enjoyable. Glad they're coming in good use *she chuckled some also and looked at Dal* You were pretty messed up that day

* Out from a crate hopped a green haired, bare footed child, bright eyed and excited. He slid across the smooth floor of the airship until he came to a halt near the group. he leaped up and down for a moment then spoke up happily* " OO!! I remember that! It was after the elementals attacked and the Anhuls scattered! Admiral Dal'Lumen defeated that fire elemental and fell over. Lirimana found him and I came over to help! We both patched him up and carried him back to the Bezair Manse! Then Admiral Dal'Lumen gave me this! * he retrieved a fine dagger out from the pack he kept on his back* " Isn't it great!!......." * he stopped as he held out the dagger, then stuffed it back into the pack and ran back behind the crates* " I mean... I'm not here!"

*a young girl's voice whispered from behind the crates where the boy had run off to hide* You were supposed to stay quiet until we landed, Reed. I promised your mother and father that I would keep you out of trouble until we returned home. We must learn restraint, otherwise you could run out and it might not be friendly Exalts

*Arachnia's lip twitched at the corner and she let off an amused and slightly irritated smile* It would seem, my Love, that we have stowaways *she looked at her husband and smirked, her head tilting to the side closest the crates* Shall we coax them out?

I remember that kid. He's a pretty good healer for a ten year-old *Lirimana chuckled some more and gathered a couple more plates of food* Hey Mabija, we should probably prepare some food for those two. Yes, two

*Dal grumbled something about nobody thanking him for severing the arms that held those swords from their owner, and reached into his sash and pulled out a Cache egg, he flipped it open and a few loaves of hearty oat bread flew through the air and landed on the table.* "You shoulda seen the other guy... We sure did make a mess of that place, the whole thing is a mirrored glass crater. Well Mabija, glad they've been put to good use." *He looked over his shoulder at the talking crates.* "Come on out Reed, and whoever that is with him, get yourself a steak sandwich!"

* Reed poked his head out from behind the crates, looking at all the people.. some old and some new. slowly, he came out completely... his hunger winning out from his desire to keep hidden* " That does sound good!... I heard the call to arms from the Ramoth Manse!... then I came down here as fast as I could. But my friend followed me... but don't worry! She is very strong!"

*Mabija whipped out a sword and heated up the dinners, shaking his head at their invasion, a bit mad at himself for not noticing that two children somehow managed to get into the ship he had been watching* Well, all done. When you two are ready, it'll be here at your seat *he directed his voice over at the crates*

* ress looked worried.. children on a dangerous mission?.. it couldn't be done... but then again, they couldn't turn back now.. what a difficult decision to make* " Well... little stow aways. How very impressive that you and your friend had bypassed full grown Exalts. there must be more to you than meets the eye. Now, you can come with us, but stay out of trouble, and when we get back, I will have to speak to your parents"

" huh.. so that is the kid?... Wow, he looks bigger than I remember" * Wave gathered up some food for him and Tari, then wandered over to her. she once more had seemed to had forgotten that she was irritated with wave*

" Cub on a mission? That is a dangerous rite of passage... is this something every child must go through in Imperveress... I am not criticizing, just surprised and maybe a little impressed... that makes for tough warriors" * She leaned against a crate as she continued to eat, looking over the little haltan boy*

[Arachnia of the Hour]

*a moment or so after Reed snuck out she gave up and followed him to the adults. She looked to be about 10 years old and wore nice and tidy clothing of quality materials. Her hair was shoulder-length and looked like the down-feathers of a bird, a soft and beautiful shade of brown. Her skin was a smoky shade of brown, smooth and flawless, the shade matching perfectly everywhere. Her eyes stood out with their golden color, brilliant against the earthy tones of the rest of her. She carried herself with unusual grace and carriage for someone so young, and she addressed Ress first, bowing in deep respect to him* Emperor Ress, I am so sorry that we didn't tell you before taking passage on your craft. I was lucky to have caught Reed before he went without me. I have left a detailed note for both of our parent sets so they are informed of our whereabouts *alongside her strange grace she was also advanced in beauty for her age ((4 App)) though she wore no cosmetics*

*Lirimana grinned at the two of them as they came forth* Oh Sun in the sky they are so cute!

" Yes! I am tough! I am going to be a Solar one day! Ghronder told me that I am a great and powerful warrior, and I believe him!" * reed cheered then leaped into the air, flipping over and grabbing a bar with his feet. This was indeed a nimble and acrobatic child to leap up ten feet into the air. He swung there for a few moments, then let himself go, landing carefully onto his feet*

Reed, please take a seat at the table and eat. It's rude to show off after stowing away in someone's vehicle *she continued to look at Ress, waiting for him to respond*

*Dal chewed on a large mouth full of steak sandwich, and waved at Reed for him to come closer. His hand was held out expectantly, but he looked up at the new child and swallowed. He nodded, impressed by this child's good manners, especially in the direction of Ress. He thought to himself about how often he found himself dealing with children these days, never having expected it once becoming a member of Imperial leadership.* "Come Reed, how are you taking care of that blade?"

* Ress stepped back at the sight of the child, then smiled at her, giving her a bow in return* " Jakisi... I had no idea you were coming here. Is your father nearby as well? it would be a stroke of luck should he be joining us. Well, its good to know that you are coming along."

" Awww Jakisi... im just having fun..... but yes! I am taking goo care of my blade! I keep it clean, sharp and in good use! I caught five Anhuls just last week and cashed in on the bounty... I then shared it with the Ramoth community. I need to do things like that if I am going to be a member of the ruling Exalts in Imperveress!"

Thank you for your kind words, my Lord. I wish my father were joining us, but he is not due for a visit for another month or so and could not accompany us on our impromptu visit *she looked to Arachnia and bowed* My Empress you look as beautiful as ever, I am glad to see you in such resplendence *then she turned to Lirimana and bowed* Miss, I am afraid I have yet to make your acquaintance. My name is Jakisi, it is most pleasurable to be in your presence

*Lirimana squeaked happily. She was so freakin' cute!* Call me Liri. I love you!

*she smiled much like a girl her age might and nodded* Miss Liri, then. I'm happy to brighten your day *then to Dal'Lumen she bowed* Admiral Dal'Lumen, I have heard many positive things of you. Your attention is a gift

*Dals eyes widened as some bread caught in his throat, and he coughed roughly as he stood up and bowed.* "Ah... ehem.. Well... AHEM!" *He cleared his throat noisily* It is my great pleasure to welcome you aboard Jakisi, your manner is impeccable, your grace makes me look like a slob!" * He sat back down and reached out to examine Reeds Knife, unsheathing it and flipping it through his fingers casually till it ended up balanced on it's tip for a few seconds... he flipped it around a few more times and it rested on it's middle balanced delicately on the edge of his finger where his eyes scanned over it. With another flurry he spun it down and put it back in its sheath before handing it back to Reed.* "Good work, it still has it's balance and it's edge!"

Nonsense, you are an accomplished martial artist, you make the other snakes of your kind look away in shame *she smiled at him and turned to Sand and gave the next bow* Sand Mirage, I was alerted to your presence. Thank you for watching our fair empire

*Sand would nod with a quirk of his brow*

*Jakisi turned and bowed to Kahn* I am ashamed to admit I know not your face, but I can see that you are a most formidable warrior. To be so beautiful and so strong, I hope to be as such some day

* Reed flipped back onto his hands, taking the knife with his foot and balancing there as if this were completely natural to him* " I take good care of it! I got a special stone for it to keep its edge sharp! I even got its blade re-tempered with some kind of bee honey! I don't know how honey can help, but it cuts better than it did before!" * With his foot, he re-sheathed it and flipped off his hand so he was once more standing upright* " Yes, I have hunted a lot of Anhuls with it!"

* Kahn smirked, surprised that such a young child could intuitively know the hierarchy of a room by glance, then call them all on it. Without thinking, she bowed in return, then knelt down to her, giving her hair a stroke* " It seems as though you do not have very far to go, Jakisi. So long as you keep following you instincts, you will grow up to be every bit as strong as me... but as for beautiful... you already have achieved that" * She kissed the child on top of her head, then stepped back, giving a smile... looking more like a mother than a warrior at the moment*

You're very kind. It would honor me to know your name, so that on the next we meet I may properly address you *she closed her eyes as she received the kiss, seeming to be very pleased with such a reaction*

"Kahn.. my name is Kahn Red Talons, Jakisi" * She giggled a little, her moonsilver bracers jingling a little from their loose bangle centers*

*Dals Jaw tightened for a moment when Khan drew closer to the small child, he considered intervening, not sure if the Tiger woman was preparing to bite the child's head off or not, but when she said what she said and did what she did, his jaw very nearly fell open, close to the danger of spilling it's contents down the front of his shirt. Surprised to be sure, he gathered himself and went back to munching. It was very hard to get a good read on this Lunar, and the danger Cho had spoken of seemed to be very mono directional.*

Kahn Red Talons, I will never forget your name *when she was done she looked to Wave and gave him her bow of greeting* Child of Daana'd Roaring Wave, most pleasant to make your acquaintance

* Wave bowed back to her, chuckling a little as he did* " Hello Jakisi.. well, you are such a well mannered child... if I had a son, I would offer him to you for marriage" * He pondered this a moment, wondering if feathers could be water aspected... then quickly dismissed it.... only Patrician sons could be offered he supposed*

*she couldn't help but giggle at his offer* Thank you so much for considering me in the future of your bloodline *Mabija was the next in line and Jakisi bowed to him this time* Child of Hesiesh, the Daimyo Mabija, I am gladdened to meet you

*Mabija looked down at the little girl and smiled. He gave a bow, the compulsion to offer her respect something he decided to give in to* You flatter me

*despite that the line was long she was down to three and she gave Bright a bow* Grand Bright, it is wonderful to meet you. My father is old acquaintances with your mother

" Oh really? Then your father must have lived in The Plaza for a time. My mother rarely leaves where she has been sent to protect." * she bowed to Jakisi, still not knowing who it was, but very impressed with her*

It was before that time, when she was still Bright Sanguine Saber. Roan Glass *she turned to him with a bow* May your life stay as lucky as your camels

"Ha! Well then, you would be happy to know that my luck, like my camels, never run out!... say! maybe your family would like some camels? I can get you some if you like!" * he bowed to he, pondering the type of camel they might like to have*

My mother might like that. I'm afraid my father would not have the time to take care of one, though the offer in itself causes me joy. When we return to the empire, I shall introduce you. Miss Tari, such an accomplished woman as yourself shines so brightly. Your hair is a lovely shade of ocean gray, it brings memories of the stunning paintings of an energetic sea I saw in a shop back home *she gave her a bow also, the last of the group*

* Tari leaned town and kissed Jakisi's cheek, giving her a hug as a greeting* " Hello Jakisi. When I have a child, I hope she is as well behaved as you are. Maybe you two would go to school together!... but she would be far younger.. far younger indeed" * he gave Jakisi another little squeeze before letting her go and standing back up*

I'm sure we would be good friends anyway *she turned to the others and smiled, looking up at Ress* May I sit down to eat?

" of course you may Jakisi.. help yourself!" * he chuckled as he took another helping himself, he heaved a sigh, staring off into space. thinking about how they had to be a good distance away from Imperveress.. his home... but then again.. it was not always his* " you all ever wonder how it was we all got here... I mean, we all come from different places... and yet we are here now... you ever wonder how? there had to be billions of choices we could have made... but we made these ones, and now are on a common path."

*Jakisi sat down to eat at her place at the table, covering herself with the napkin before eating*

*Lirimana looked as though she was going to say something but shook her head with a chuckle* I guess so, yeah. Of course I'd never make a different choice, if given the chance

The world is funny that way *Mabija finished off his food and sighed, happy to be full*

"The voice of the Unconquered Sun himself spurred me to Imperveress, I think ours is a story that has always been, and is a long... Long while from an end. A return to the way things should have been, as if creation is healing itself. " *Dal leaned back, having quite literally stuffed himself on steak and oat bread.*

" I mean... me personally, I thought I was just going to be piloting sky canoes and keeping peace between the other Haslanti people... I mean, having no chance of ever inheriting a position on the League council" * He nodded again, reminiscing out loud*

*Dal looked around at Ress, waving a piece of bread at him.* "Speaking of which, how little we know of our mysterious leader, how did you come to be where you are today Ress?"

*Arachnia smiled at the others and their talking of such funny things. She leaned into Ress, just a little so as not to impede him if he needed to move. She wondered where this might lead, and her gaze traveled to the strange little Jakisi. She wondered how much she embraced her fate at that age, but knowing that little girl she was probably fine with it*

" Yeah Ress! Were you born with a silver spoon in your mouth? I always figured you were a king out in the Linowan nation or up in crystal or something.... am I right?" * he looked around the room, trying to see who also thought this*

*Ress chuckled a little, then heaved a sigh. he looked over to Wave, half answering his question and half starting a story* " Well you see... I am not Linowan, obviously... I am a Northerner. I grew up in a large emerald outside of a city called Shield.. not too far from Crystal"

" Um... whats an emerald?... did you live on a giant gem or something?" Glass was puzzled, picturing a huge kingdom chiseled into a behemoth sized shiny stone*

*ress laughed at the question, then shook his head, also thinking that it would be fitting to have such a place in both the south and the north* " No no no.. an emerald is what we call a plot of green fertile soil among the snowy tundra. My family lived on a huge one, but owned many smaller emeralds and had many vassals to tend to them. Yes, I did grow up very well off... my family having used the last of what we had left over from the Empire of Bagarash Kol to purchase the large emerald... then the profits from that to buy the smaller ones around it. But of course, my family became very large very fast... I have about ten brothers and sisters, and I am the youngest of the bunch"

That's a lot of family! Good thing you didn't end up with an identity crisis *Mabija chuckled at that, remembering how he had once thought his family of six was huge*

*Dal found himself wishing he had his hands around a cup of cold foaming brew, to go along with his lunch and this story as one might have grown accustomed to while out at sea, instead he spun his chair around and leaned back making himself more comfortable as he listened.*

" Yeah... and as they grew up, my brothers and sisters inherited the land our parents owned.. till there was none left for me, and with nothing left to stay for, I left the emerald and headed north for crystal. There, I got a job flying the haslanti air-boats. It was fun and paid well enough, but what was really good about it was I got to go all over the Haslanti League, learning at their schools and library's, amassing knowledge I couldn't have had just living on an emerald. I was mostly interested in history and how societies worked. When I was realized as an adult, I had fixed the dealings and social structures in five cities and almost fifty emeralds. It was about that time that my eldest brother, Veet, contacted me. It looked like he had gotten a seat at the Council of Oligarchs and wanted to hire me to help make him look better to the rest of the league, so he could rise above the other Oligarchs"

Through slander or just by promoting you? *Lirimana had settled in as well, wishing she were friends enough to lean on one of the others*

" Of course, he was family... so I did it" * Res shrugged,rolling his eyes at the memory, and how child like he once was. With a heavy sigh, he continued his story* " no slander.. he knew that the Haslanti people were still very barbaric and inefficient, if I worked for him and made the League work better, he would look better and get more power. Well, I did all I could to fix the League, but somehow, the wealth was being siphoned from all the emeralds, and if you do not know, are the lifeblood of the north. After some sifting, I discovered that it was due to a tax levied by the council to take the focus away from farmers and put it on industry in the cities... but in such hostile lands.. you just cant do that"

" that makes sense... if the water harvesters in the south were taxed beyond living standards, there would be no water, and that would mean the death of everyone in the south... without water, there is no life" * Bright nodded, now understanding this alien frozen land to the north*

" Exactly.. well what happened then was I went to the council, stormed in on a meeting, and told my brother off for trying to kill the farmers he made his lively-hood on. He denied it and the rest of the council agreed... but after an hour or so of explaining the domino effect of the fall of the working class leading to the toppling of the ruling class. one by one they began seeing reason... then offered me candidacy for my brother's spot, seeing that he was nothing more than money and connections. I accepted.... then Exalted at that moment, and then!........ well" * he stopped, rubbed the back of his neck a moment, then gave a nod* " I became the Emperor of Imperveress... and could finally put all my knowledge to use... and ill tell you, its much easier making a completely fertile nation flourish"

[Arachnia of the Hour]

"Hold it there... What made you leave, your brother couldn't have been happy with you, but it sounds like you had something going." *Dal sat forward, scratching his head.* "There is something you left out Emperor, how does one just start something like that up north and then end up in the scavenger lands as an Emperor."

* He shrugged, then shook his head, closing his eyes as he did* " Well, my brother was scared to say the least... so was everyone else... I got out of there really quick... like a shaft of light quick. Next thing I knew, I was miles away from the city and presented with the opportunity to do anything I wanted... and it so happened, what I wanted was to pick this empire up from where my past self left off" * Ress nodded, then opened his eyes, giving a small nod*

How about you, Dal? What brought you to Imperveress? *Lirimana was sitting back against the chair now, her hands folded on the knee she had crossed over the other*

* Wave patted Dal on the shoulder, shaking him slightly* " Yeah! That a good story, tell it while I look for something for us all to drink! " * Wave then began rummaging trough the jars and crates, searching for something with a proof to it*

" I would like to know where you come from Admiral Dal'Lumen! Whenever I ask wave, he tells me to go ask you" * Tari shot a glance at Wave, wondering if drinking was the thing to do on such a voyage*

*Dal leaned back in his chair, it seemed like there was more to the story than Ress was letting on, but Dal wasn't going to push any further. He knew all about having a past you don't want to talk about.* " Well, very good, we are glad for it, and now we know our Emperor a bit better then!" *Dal crossed his ankle over his knee and yawned. He glanced around the room thinking about who else might talk about the dealings of their pasts until Lirimana put him on in the spotlight. He rubbed the back of his head and leaned forward again.* " Err... Which part of it is good, maybe I'll just skip the rest and tell that part... heh." *He fidgeted awkwardly, it seemed his turn had come up sooner than he had anticipated, and only hoped his tale didn't ruin everyone's mood *Dal clapped his hand on his knee and sighed.* "Fine fine...* "He raised his open hands up for emphasis.

"... If you share your secrets' Dal..... we all will as well" * Seeing the discomfort in Dal's face, as an ambassador, he immediately had to euthanize the situation and give everyone an equal footing. without thinking, he held his hand out, allowing his caste mark to glow as he held his hand out for everyone to take*

"I'll take whatever you're serving Wave... Quick." *Dal quirked his eyebrow at Ress, but instinctively reached out to receive his hand* "Err... Ok"

*Lirimana raised her brow at that. Her secret wasn't life threatening to anyone involved, but as all secrets were it was rather awkward for her. She didn't put her hand on his right away, not hiding that she was in the matter of debating whether or not she was going to comply. Ultimately however, she figured that Arachnia must have some skeletons in her closet that she'd like to hear so she could give up hers if she really had to. In a single motion she unlocked her fingers and put her hand on Ress's, resisting the urge to make a sports chant*

* Wave retrieved, hooting as he placed eight large containers of a rich red almost syrupy substance* " Look what I found! Elderberry wine! This is the real stuff from southern Halta! This fetches a full bar for a mug of the stuff in the west!! drink hearty!!!.. oh what?... yeah, I am in!" * Wave walked to Dal and Ress, putting his hand in*

*Arachnia shook her head slightly and remained in her seat. She could feel the war inside of her for wanting to please Ress, her beloved, her Mate, but the desire to let the others in on such things caused her pause. Her past, she would share, but her secrets she wanted to keep hidden* I'm afraid that I must decline such an offer. I would like to keep my secrets, mine

*Mabija shrugged and put his hand on the others'* Sure, although I'm going to have to apologize in advance for the lack of juicy gossip from me

* Well... Wave and I have a similar story.. but I have nothing to hide.. I am in as well! * When calm, Tari was as eloquent as one might expect a high breed patrician, raised in the best private schools and sheltered from the world. she placed her hand atop Mabija's *

* Bright stood still and silent for a moment, then sighed and stepped forward, putting his hand in with the rest, his whole body tensing up as he did this... as if afraid to let some dark secret out*

*Jakisi finished her meal and cleaned her face and hands while the others were talking. When she was done she sat quietly and listened to the stories. She wasn't sure if she and Reed were supposed to be involved in this, and the lack of surety showed on her face* Emperor Ress, shall Reed and I retire for the evening?

* Glass laughed, seeing brights's fear at the forefront. He patted him on the shoulder then put his hand on his companions* " You knew this would happen sooner or later..."

"Ha! Jakisi! I am not going anywhere! Why are you wanting to go to bed? The Unconquered sun has barely said goodnight.. I am staying, and I am in! * Reed leaped back up into the air, flipped over and grabbed a pipe with his foot. he then walked upside down until he was right over the hand pile,he then placed his hand atop the pile*

Reed Sprout, you are only "in" if your Emperor allows it. He is the highest ranking member of this party and you will listen to what he asks of you. Even if that is for you to go to bed *she gave him a look that said she was serious* And if you go so far as to disrespect and disobey I will take you to bed the moment you do so. I don't want to have to threaten you, but my job is to make sure you don't cause more trouble than necessary

* Kahn, without saying a word, put her hand on top of the child's, finding a tightly cramped place to stand in this circle*

* Ress gave a chuckle, then nodded to Jakisi, giving the child a wink before speaking* " Of course you and Reed may join... besides, your father wouldn't like it if I left you our." * Ress then laughed, then heaved a sigh, taking note Arachnia still had not joined* " Is something wrong, my mate?

*Arachnia's resolve flickered as her Mate questioned her, the pull to please him tugging on her soul* It's not that something is wrong, per se, I just have secrets I wish kept that way....

I'm sure he would understand. This might contain adult matters, and though I understand, not all are aware of what I am *the golden-eyed child smiled sweetly at Ress, putting a hand on Arachnia's back for comfort, using the cover of their bodies to be discreet. She looked at Reed and nodded at him* Well?

" Only ones relevant to your life and how you got here, Arachnia... do not worry so much" * He motioned for her to come over with the tilt of his head, smiling warmly at her as he did so*

* Sand couldn't help being amused and disturbed by the scene before him. Secrets had become a business of sorts since he'd come north. With no small amount of trepidation he reached into the circle adding his had to the pile.* I would say we all have some secrets that must not be shared, some our own, some in our keeping.

* Reed hung his head as he hung from his toes, then said in a sort of sing song tone* " Thank you Emperor Ress"

*finding that such secrets were now open to interpretation she went to her husband and slid her hand down his arm until it reached the pile, comforted to know that if this was the case then she had no secrets they had to know* I suppose that I will join you, then

*Jakisi nodded approvingly at Reed and snuck under the others, taking advantage of her shorter height to put her hand under the pile*

"Now then...We are all to tell, complete and without abstinence, the tale of events that made us who we are, achieved exaltation and ultimately brought us to where we are now. If a question arises it must be answered unless overturned by a majority vote after a refusal to answer... but continued refusal will result in a breech of contract... we agree!" * Ress caste mark glowed brighter as the terms of their agreement circled around them in words of many languages, both known and lost to time. The light display quickly dissipated, leaving them just a gaggle of people holding hands*

*Dal had spent this time waiting for everyone else to put their hands in and when the oath had been made, he sat himself back down, at the same time he did indeed drink heartily, a mouth full of wine before beginning, he swished the wine around his mouth and swallowed, he braced himself trying to think of the most interesting way to tell this story.* "Well it's not so much my secret as it is, simply, the unfortunate series of events that brought me so far from home. Any of you can take one look at me and know where I hail from. My mother was a strong and compassionate Squalus woman that raised my sister and I by herself. We lived on one of the smaller islands of Okeanos, or what you may know as an island of Amphiro in the neck. I was the elder between my sister and I, by a few years... and my father was a ships captain, gone for most of the year out at sea." *Dal took another big drink of wine, before going on.*

" That is the way to do it! Its good luck to drink on a maiden voyage!" * Wave joined Dal in a drink, sighing when the taste of 65 proof passed his lips* " Worth every oble.... too bad I didn't have the scratch back in the islands"

* Glass grabbed a glass and poured himself some from one of the eight gallon containers of Elderberry wine, then took a sip, coughing part way through from surprise at the 'taste of strong alcohol'*

* Bright laughed out loud at the sound that Glass had made, then patted him hard on the back as he drank, causing him to choke even harder this time* " You always were a huge pussy, Glass, leave the drinking to the real men!" * Bright poured himself a mug, then took back a huge gulp of it, reducing her vessel to roughly empty* " And that is how you do it!..." * Bright swayed a little as he stood there, not realizing the severity of what he had drank until it caught up with him... about twenty seconds later* ( 4 bashing )

*Mabija took his with a nod. He had never been a huge wine fan, but seeing the reactions from the others he figured it couldn't be too bad with power like that. He took a whiff before taking a swig, letting it roll down his throat into his stomach, bypassing the tasting part of drinking. Soon the warming effects of the wine took him and he smiled, having always been a fan of heat*

"We had a happy life, I was just entering manhood at the age of 10, started going out on fishing and trading trips to the big Island with the older boys and men. We were expecting my father to be home, he usually tried to either save up an excuse to come home around special occasions, or he would just make a special trip, but he was often a month late for such things... But such is the way of things in the life of a trader and smuggler." *Dal looked around the room, wondering how this would settle in.* " Eventually when he did arrive only a few week's late I remember him being very agitated, he came storming into the house in the middle of the night and woke everyone up, told us we needed to get our stuff and leave the island that night. In spite of all that he still remembered my birthday and that's when he gave me that Knife that Reed now owns." *He cleared his throat.*
"Turns out there had been a mutiny on his ship, for reasons I can't know... likely greed. We soon discovered my village was being raided by the crew that had betrayed him, all I remember was that the darkness of night, and star light had been replaced by the blazing light of the fires burning my village back into the sand."

*Lirimana looked at the others, and then at her drink, then at Wave* Thanks.. I think. This is going to fuck me up, isn't it? *the Twilight sniffed her alcohol and took a sip, chuckling as she did so*

" I'm surprised.. you all are taking to this like it is yozi venom... here is how you drink * She poured herself a tankard of the sweet smelling highly alcoholic syrup, then brought it to her lips, mocking how a dignified city person might sip... then showed her true barbarian nature as she pounded the whole thing down, trails of it streaking down her chin and dribbling down onto her beasts. she purred softly as she put her mug down, then licked a bit off her hand* " that is how you do it.. man or woman" ( 2 bashing)

*Arachnia wiggled her nose at the syrup, having never been a drinker, even before her Exaltation. She understood the desires people had for it, and had even tried it a few times, but the enjoyability factor had never been there for her when in reference to alcohol. For the sake of the mood, however, she took a sip and then set her mug on the table, knowing that the kids wouldn't dare drink any*

" So your father was upstarted by his own men after years of loyal service and leadership? By the gods... through Lintha and Lamprey? through squall and storm mother? Past beach and behemoth? That will never fly in this empire!.. no sir.. I will declare that all treasonous acts aboard any imperial craft will be punished by being hung from the city manses and left as a reminder for weeks!!...." * Ress's outburst was undoubtedly brought on by his half empty glass.. he was not drunk, but loose enough to give into his emotions* ( 2 health levels)

*Dal poured himself more wine and tilted his cup back and finished it off, his mission being to loosen his tongue up having not been any sort of success yet, he couldn't seem to get any affect out of this harsh wine... that was until now. A small smirk that seemed to be totally unconscious and out of context stretched Dal's face as it hit him, for what it was worth.* { 1 bashing}

* Tari sipped her own drink... being a lightweight had its upsides and its down. She thought about Dal's story, wondering how many of her family's ships had plundered and exploited the people of her island. she shuddered at the thought and took a larger sip... slightly regretting it as she wondered when it was going to reach her head*

*Mabija let the rest of his mug drain into his stomach and he wiped his mouth with his hand, letting out a contented sigh. The others were already fumbling, and it caused him to have to hold back a chuckle. He'd have to be careful if he was to keep his oath to Ress tonight... Too many pretty women, drunk pretty women...*

*Despite lack of trust of her, he couldn't help at this point but watch the wine trickle down Khans face down to her breasts with quiet reserve, he looked down at the bottom of his cup and frowned.* " This stuff ain't cutting it..." *He looked back up and continued, after pouring himself another glass and letting it sit.* "Indeed Emperor... We made our way to the docks, it grew more dangerous the closer we got... It was a doomed venture from the start, we were seen, and soon had a group of treacherous ships men on us, my father tried to talk to them, and when that failed things got violent... Make no mistake my father was a well known Linowan warrior and river boats man before he came west and met my mother. He was a big man, he probably would stand over me even now, I remember he seemed like a giant when I was a kid, to see him that furious... it was like nothing I had ever seen."

*Lirimana found herself watching the wine trickle down the Lunar's sumptuous body. She licked her lips and took a deep breath before taking a gulp of her drink, primarily to give herself something else to occupy her mind. She hated this damned weakness!*

"He took a dagger in the back right away, and the man that had stuck it there found his head facing the wrong direction over his shoulders an instant later, a couple more men followed before the mob eventually brought my father to his knees... near death, with his life trickling from countless wounds into pools at his knees... oddly enough while this was happening I remember the night sky growing orange as the sun began to reach the underside of the horizon... Hell of a thing to be aware of while this was happening."

* Kahn Poured another drink, but held it as she listened to Dal's story, her face showing a spark of compassion, but mostly buzzed barbarian. She then put the drink down and took a seat*

"A rage came over me the likes of which I have only experienced a few times in my life, I remember little other than I lunged forward the dagger my father had given me in hand, I drove it into the back of the knee of the sailor nearest to me. I remember him screaming, and then a blinding pain in the side of my face as I was hit."

* Wave was now nestled beside Tari, drinking gulps to Tari's sips, he nodded at the stabbing part, then the getting slapped... maybe it was the drink.. or maybe he just saw Dal as a captain on shore leave at the moment.. either way, he spoke up* " You should have stabbed him in the sweet breads... that's what I would have done..."

* Tari sat up straight as Wave said what he said, she then punched him in his cheek, causing some of the elderberry wine to fall in his lap*

" Ow..... what did I do?" * Wave rubbed his cheek, wondering what he did wrong. by this point in his life, he was used to getting hit.. of course he wouldn't hit back, because she was a woman... and a patrician... not to mention they were not currently training*

"Yeah... all in hind sight..." *Dal rubbed the side of his face... remembering that he had landed face down in his fathers blood, and the sound of his sister crying and his mother screaming before the world went dark.* "I woke up in a cage... on a ship, I guess I was lucky to be alive after that, so were the other members of my village that were locked up in similar over crowded cages under the deck. I remember the next few months watching as people that had strength left in them were brought up to, and many never came back... I found out later they were being auctioned off as slaves, they eventually took my mother and sister but never seemed to come for me, I was just left there to rot... Subject to the stink of human waste and the mockery of the crew... the captains son, now the chained and shackled vermin under the ship. "
*caged and shackled**

That's terrible... *Lirimana got up from her seat, holding in the sway that threatened her body, and got herself another drink. She stood there for a moment before taking a big gulp and then heading back to her seat*

"I don't remember how long I was down there but when it finally came time that I was brought back into the light, for what the new captain of the ship had decided was an offer... The only one I would ever get, and the only chance he had of making any profit on the feral captains son... He decided to put me in a brawling pit, and bet money against me... which he won."" More than once I might add, the odds weren't great to start, but as I grew and got bigger, he was able to hype me, as he moved from port to port looking for new suckers to put against me... Until one day that all changed, maybe I had gotten my ass kicked enough times that I learned something, maybe I had grown strong enough fighting losing battles, and maybe I had just got lucky but damn if he didn't put a few bars down against me and to his dismay, I won." "... which only served to get me a beating from the captains men, but again rather than killing me he decided he might start putting money down for me... I guess you get your ass kicked enough times and you reach a point where it just don't happen any more, the pit's favored me from then on, I broke men... killed a few. Never liked it, but I had another plan, something that I had been waiting, and plotting for, for 8 years, I was going to kill that son of a bitch captain if it was the last thing I did. " And one night, not far off the eastern coastline it happened... I shit you not it was with the very same blade my father had given me... the same one that I lifted off the scum I had stuck years before who had kept it as a trophy, along with his useless leg... I crept into the captains quarters and ended him, set his bed on fire with a lantern and escaped into the water." *Dal chugged his cup of wine and grunted... The warmth in his belly being the only reminder that he had drank any at all.*

*Mabija shook his head and downed the last of his mug, only his second for the evening. He got himself another, hoping to chase away the blues the pending night promised. He told himself he was going to nurse the last half and chugged the first part, setting it on his knee for now*

What an awful story, Dal... At least you lived and got to wear that purple robe.... *she shook her head with a smile, bemused by that folly* Now you're big and strong!

" That's the way to go.. dirty bastard... bet he bleed like a stuck anathema on Peleps Deled's spear....." * His eyes became wide when he realized what it was he had said. he looked from side to side, looking for anyone who might have been offended* " Erm... I'm sorry... It was a common expression where I am from"

*Lirimana pouted some at Wave, her bottom lip puffing out and everything* It's because he's a Water Aspect, huh? We both have spears, but mine is better, but you like him because of his Aspect *she put her arm on Wave's shoulder, taking a huge swig before continuing* I'm just one of those horrible Golden Demons....

" On the contrary.... I hate Peleps Deled... I met him once... we are related through marrage. My second cousin is married to his neice... plus, he would kill me quicker than any Solar should he have the chance" * He swayed some as Lirimana put him off balance* " Besides.. you are a fine person Lirimana... I would even share my wife with you" * He patter her cheek as she leaned against Tari*

* Sand rolled his eyes at their antics. This is exactly the sort of reason why he doesn't drink. Stay sharp or die. As he settled back into his seat he folded his hands into his sleeves. *

* Without so much as a flinch before hand, Tari punched Wave in his cheek and rolled her eyes, heaving a sigh as she took another sip of this syrupy grool which seemed to be tasting better and better*

Really?... *Lirimana sniffed a little, starting to be particularly off balance with that last one* That's so sweet... *she ambled off back to her seat and looked at her glass a moment*

"Not to worry... It's indeed not a happy story, but it's all I've got, and what you guys asked for, but for what it's worth the next few years of my life were happier that was when I washed up on a beach like a bloated corpse and breathed the air of a free man for the first time in eight years. It's funny you should mention that shower incident Lirimana, because when the next people I would meet discovered me I was completely nude, drying myself off as well as the ragged clothing I had." *Dal laughed for the first time at this mention, pouring himself his fourth mug of wine sipping at it before continuing.* "In fact I what I thought was a deserted beach under a cliff turned out to be the same beach directly under a town that had just come out to greet the morning only to find a strange nude westerner on their land."

Too bad I never got to see you naked, though... I was just too embarrassed to tell you I hadn't... *she laughed at that, shaking her head in disappointment* Maybe someday that'll change...

*Dal's eyes widened as the wine he had been pounding down finally reached him, he looked down at the tingle in his fingers in surprise exclaiming.* "I think I'm starting to feel something!"

" Me too!... this stuff is great!.. its like..... I don't know. We didn't have anything like this back in the south... this stuff dries you up, so we usually stay away from it.... but when in the city!... well.... * Bright swayed in a circular motion, chuckling every so often as he fanned himself* " anyone else feeling hot?"

*Arachnia raised a brow at all of them, particularly Lirimana and her drunken sprawling. She held back a sigh as the others got into it, even Dal'Lumen was starting to feel the power of those drinks. This was going to prove to be a very loud evening, she wasn't really sure how the kids were having any fun, but they had remained quiet, though for the girl it wasn't all that uncommon. Ress was right, though, she really did need to be in on these sorts of things*

*He looked up at Lirimana with a silly smirk on his face.* "Ahh Lirimana... I can assure you I will be naked many more times in the future, heh heh..." *He chuckled and pointed a swaying finger at her.* " I have no doubt your timing shall remain... astonishingly perfect. Or.. *He swayed.* "Perhaps I'll simply invite you along the next time I shower... Should I need help." * He stopped a moment and thought about what he had just said, which ended with him shrugging and going back to trying to remember what he had just been saying.*

*she stopped and giggled, swaying a little as she tried to comprehend what he just said. On a base level Lirimana understood that it was a drunken come on, and somewhere in her brain she understood it probably only came out because of the level of alcohol, but all she could manage to do was laugh girlishly and find herself unable to stop the scarlet shade someone had photoshopped over her face* mm...

*Kahn looked between Dal and Lirimana, a puzzled expression crossed her face as she took hold of her drink, lifted it a moment, then set it back on the table. still, the dynamics of this group were a mystery to her*

"Oh yes! So that town... They took me in, and I before long I was one of them, I worked as a laborer putting the body I had gained in the pit's to a more constructive use. I helped build things like stone walls... houses... and ships for a while, learned their language, even spent some time going back to school... which is the only reason I can tell most of you this story in the first place in this this accent of mine! I learned many things... and eventually learned some passing information about commerce in the scavenger lands, enough to know that if you needed it, if it was illegal, stolen, or of a general slippery nature, then the rats would have brought it back to Nexus." "I had no idea where the rest of my family had ended up, but I hoped that if at any point they went anywhere that they would go through Nexus, so I took a chance, packed up and left my second home, and my second family, with any luck to find my first." *Dal leaned back and rubbed his belly.* " At this point I was probably about twenty years old, and I spent 3 more years in nexus, waiting with my ear to the ground, got involved with the guild, went right back to doing dirty work for someone else, worked with a debt collector for a while, breaking noses... and knee caps, moved my way up to caravan and merchandise security, made sure everything went smoothly during negotiations, kept their filthy drugs and hopeless slaves company. "I remember one day I beat this one poor soul senseless because he had slipped his breaker and tried to escape, which only got me promoted further into dealing almost exclusively with the slaves. I have gone over it a hundred times.. I know how disgusting it is that I went from being in their same situation to being the one keeping the slaves... But I had to do something, I had to find my family." "... I hardly recognized her... she seemed to have aged 50 years... my mother, Radiant Azure Mist, was the one that recognized me, and it broke her heart to find me doing what I was doing... I wasn't even able to explain it to her because I couldn't be caught talking to the slaves... I was only expected to push them to their auctions and beat them when they disobeyed. I've never been one to plan ahead much but I managed to convince my boss to let me go with the next shipment of slaves as security on the caravan. It's... I had convinced them that I was suspicious of a driver, I told my boss that If I went on that trip that I could prove the driver was taking the profit from every 4th slave he sold and kept it for himself and out of the guilds coffers..." "So... I waited to get out of the city... and freed the slaves on the road, told them to fight beside me, to fight for their freedom, they did... and because of that I got another parent killed... I remember the voice of the Unconquered Sun in my head, he told me to lead the freed to a promised land further east... Sunlight filled my veins and I Exalted at that moment, leading an army of unarmed slaves against their keepers... So I suppose you could say... my path to Imperveress is one fought for, my entire life, leaving a wake of death in my path..." *Dal slumped angrily in his chair.* " I shaved my head and showed up on your doorstep, ready to forget everything I've ever done and give my life in the service of saving others, I will never let another innocent be enslaved in my witness, not so long as I live..." *He stood abruptly, anger at himself being the only thing in his mind at this point... he stomped over to a corner of the room unoccupied, and starred out the window in silence.*

* Wave began to clap when Dal had finished. a few tears running down his cheeks. the cup in his lap sloshed around, spilling some of the elderberry wine into it.. though he was plenty used to that by now* " man... that story gets better every time I hear it.......?" * He was almost shocked to see dal wander off like that, but let him go, not knowing what to do or say*

* Kahn nodded, taking in the story fully, then lifting her glass. she turned to Dal and spoke out to him* " It sounds like our stories are not that different.... my people have traditions for relieving the pains of grief and renewing the spark of hope for tomorrow, Dal'Lumen..... if you are interested that is" * Though drunk, Kahn sounded sincere. unsurprising for anyone who knew barbarians.. they many times had very strong ties to family*

* Ress nodded, looking down into his now empty cup, then placed it on the table* " I'm sorry you have seen so many unfair trials in life, Dal.... please, take as much time as you need...."

[Arachnia of the Hour]

*Dal looked back at the group sitting around, he hadn't meant to generate a pity party for himself, but it wasn't something he was used to talking about. More often his nightmares were the only place he reflected on his past, and this was perhaps the first time that anyone had ever heard this full story of his life.* "Perhaps I will take you up on that Khan... It is just something I will have to live with... thinking about it angers me, much more telling of it." * He looked back out the window shaking his head.* "It's nothing, go on, I will listen to the next story.*

* Kahn then splashed her drink onto herself, soaking her cheek, neck and chest in the red liquid, then smirked over at the angry Zenith* " Body shots. Those have helped my people for many years... something I introduced to my experiment with the thousand streams river....it could help. Feel free to try" * Kahn then turned away, back to the table, gathering some of the elderberry wine off her chest with her finger, then licking it off*

"......." * Ress swallowed hard when he saw what Kahn did. He swiftly smoothed his hair back out as it spiked up over his left ear, then cleared his throat* " Interesting practices, Kahn.... I cant say I have ever partaken... but I have visited my brother during some rather out of control parties...... now then.... do we have any volunteers to go next?"

*Lirimana stared at Kahn and then at Dal and then back at Kahn, finding it rather difficult to believe that Kahn meant it. Then she chuckled and looked at Arachnia* You'd better watch out, I think your man has a thing for this kitty

*Arachnia clenched her jaw for a moment before turning angry narrowed eyes on Lirimana. Her voice came out as a dangerous whisper, full of the threat of violence* This is your only warning, speak like that again and I tear out your throat and feed it to your unborn children

Wh-? Hey, I was just saying. You don't have to be a bitch all the time. You're enough of a tease you should understand... Must be a Lunar thing. Jeeze *Lirimana put up her hands in defense, swaying heavily as she did so. She blinked a few times to clear her eyes, having taken quite a bit of liquor already*

* Ress' crown glowed slightly as he looked between the two, then spoke, his voice stern, but not uncaring* " Calm yourselves you two! This is not how a team acts!... now Lirimana, you know very well that Arachnia and I are a set... there is no coming between it.... and Arachnia, there is no reason to fly off the handle at such a comment... she meant it in jest..."

*Dal turned to watch Khan throw wine at herself with a dumbfounded expression.* "Err... Khan, I take it the tradition is you get too drunk to aim for your mouth and end up taking body shots... If not that then what is the point, I don't understand..." *His ears perked up at the sound of Arachnias threat, he glanced over at the group cautiously, wondering if he might need to break up a fight soon.*

" And besides, Emperor Ress is too delicate for me... I wouldn't want to have worry about snapping someone in half in the throes of passion.... and sometimes Lunars are like Arachnia and I... some people say your animal will determin it.. orthers say you achieve your animal because you are the way you are.. but I dont know for sure" * Kahn then laughed as she tunned to Dal, leaning over in her seat, causing more of the wine to run down onto her chest* " Did you get hit in the nuts too many times by your master, Mister Martial artist? its there to be licked off by someone of the opposite sex... or the same, as the case may be....." * she turnned around again, jutting her cup at Glass.. but quickly remembering that it was empty* " Oh yes.... oh well"

* Glass flinched and recoiled as the glass was thrusted in his direction, then sighed in releif when it was found to be empty* " good thing for me then..... I don't want some Solar man licking elderberry off me anyway"

You and I both know she means nothing but harm, ever since the first day she tried for you. My anger is not so sudden, I assure you *the Empress's eyes remained cold for a moment longer before she settled back into her seat, still heated but not saying anything. She had no intention of rescinding her threat, it was actually something she'd been wanting to do since she met the woman. Kahn on the other hand, she might actually get along with. Which surprised her possibly more than if anyone else knew that thought*
*looking at Kahn she nodded with a smirk that referred to where her thoughts had turned* He's tougher than he looks, but I thank you for your respect to my marriage. I would be happy to meet your chosen mate if you have one, we could have dinner *the Empress was visibly calmer, and her usual smile returned to her face while she watched the drunken antics of the room*

* Bright smacked Glass on his back, laughing softly as he tilted back slightly* " Why do you have to be such a boat on dry land? That sounds like it could be fun! I'll sign up for body shots! any takers?"

Oh, well, I guess that makes sense... *Lirimana turned at the offer of body shots and her hand shot up in the air, all threats and unhappiness forgotten already* Oo! Me! Me!

" If nobody else wants to.. Tari and I will go next!" * Wave stumbled to his feet, hardly a graceful martial artist at the moment and more of a drunken sailor*

Sure, I'm in *Mabija grinned wide, showing his teeth in his smile. He took off the pieces of armor as they rounded up their team and set them aside for safekeeping. Underneath he was wearing a simply white shirt with red trim, open for mobility and comfort* Oh, stories now, huh?

* Bright poured himself another glass, then took the gallon he had been filling from and poured the rest of its contents from the container onto his face, neck and chest, soaking his veil and his southern barbarian noble garbs, then laid back on the table* " then go for it! Shoot away!"

*Dal's shot back at Khan, looking rather like he had indeed just been kicked in the balls.* "Huh... OH... hmm, I could see how that might... redirect the mind." *He smirked, but something seemed to hit him again and the smirk left. He nodded and turned back out the window. His time in nexus living as what most would consider to be a bad man he was no stranger to such occasions, though his recent exaltation had brought new convictions and standards. He gathered himself, remembering that he was not to trust this Khan person.*
"Yeah, you all enjoy." *Since coming to the empire he had managed to keep himself busy enough that he didn't have time to think about his masculine needs, his temperance being what it was would still be put to the test riding in close quarters with, beautiful, flirtatious women with nothing to keep him preoccupied. He could have kicked himself, his hair wasn't the only thing he decided needed to cut back on to make up for his past.*

* He Nodded, putting an arm around Tari's shoulders then speaking up as well* " And I grew up in a tributary town in the Neck. My parents were both Patricians who were sent to the islands to look over their investments...... but in reality, they were sent away because they figured the dragon had been breed out of my family line and they needed to be taken out of the spotlight.... so no shame would come to the main line for being related"

*Mabija would chuckle at Bright's eager attempt at body shots. At least if he was with Bright he wouldn't have to worry about breaking his promise to Ress, so a few body shots couldn't hurt. He leaned over Bright and licked the lowest point of saturation, finding that despite that these were clothes, there was so much alcohol on them that it didn't matter. He chuckled inwardly and started working his way up to the veil until he stopped, startled. He put his hands over Bright's chest and grinned* Well well, I found something very interesting.... *he gave the veil a long broad lick and kept his hands where they were*

*Lirimana hopped up and laughed, practically falling backwards back into her seat* Hey! That looks like fun! *she looked back at Tari and Wave, smiling * Don't worry, I'm still listening

* Bright giggled at the sensation of having someone lick booze off them. Why hadn't this event moved down to the south? He jumped a little as his chest was grabbed. It took a moment or two for the saturated alcohol to press his normally baggy fitting clothing down against his body, reveling two large C cup lumps on his chest* " Oh? Whatever could you mean, Dragon?...No two men are the same after all"

* Sand couldn't believe just how quickly the situation was degrading. With a small groan and a palm to his face he turned in his seat to focus on the Dragoon-Blooded's story. *

*he squeezed both breasts a few times and chuckled to himself, wondering if he had somehow drunk more than he had thought* That is quite true, quite true. Perhaps we could explore those differences a little later? *Mabija took that moment to lick up more of the wine on Bright, ignoring the Night in favor of his underling*

* Tari stopped a moment, puzzled by the scene she was looking at on the table.. but continued her story* " When I didn't Exalt at the end of primary school, I was told that I displeased the dragons and had brought shame to my family. that I was worthless and needed to find a way to bring honor and fortune to our family... and ever since then, I trained day and night in the ways of martial arts and studied the immaculate texts, seeing the only way to redeem myself and my failures was by joining the immaculate order"

" I didnt have formal schooling... but I did have a tutor, sent in from the blessed island. I lived like a rich islander for the most part... untill one day I was playing with my friends in the water... then Exalted! Some of my friends got banged up by my anima, but time heals all wounds.. they were even proud to have that happen to them... Dragon-Blooded being a kind of far off legendary hero. my parents were thrilled to see that I had exalted. So, they called in every favor and liquidated every asset to have me sent to the blessed island and sent to one of the finest schools on the island... The house of Bells!"

* glass shook his head, handing it low as he held the bridge of his nose with his index and thumb. he heaved a hard sigh, then turned away from the table, looking over at the pair of Dragon-Blooded.... now there was an exalt type that he was not afraid of... they were sent by the dragons to protect, after all*

* Bright put her arms around Mabija, shivering a little as her breast were fondled. that was the thing about the path of the grey sash.... you rarely get to experience what made the gender you were born into great* " Settling differences is what Delzahn do best"

" I even entered tournaments for martial arts, and public speeches about the tenets of The Immaculate Order... but it didn't make my family proud of me... no matter how many trophies or commendations I got, it was never enough... because I was not, and could never be a dragon. But I never quit.. I just worked harder and harder still" * Tari nodded, balling her hand into a fist*

*Dal's jaw dropped when he looked back to see what had started up, and to discover that bright was a woman... with a very wet shirt... He shook his head and locked his eyes back out the window trying to think of horrible things like river dragons... and giant squid trying to beat the life out of him... and the potent and memorable stench of Ox manure that he had his senses permeated with during his months in Caravan.* "What made that the best school... I know little of the systems on the blessed isle."

I'm sure, as long as we take the time to lay all of the information out in the open and spend plenty of time exploring solutions, everything will finish with a bang *the Fire Aspect smirked and licked Bright's veiled face, amused at the arms around him*

" I worked hard there.... almost as hard as Bright and Mabija over there but not quite... I would have ruled that school if I had" * Wave laughed, doubling over and bracing his hand on his knee for support* " whats that?.. Oh! It was one of the best because it is one of the four schools on the island that receive the most funding from the government and private organizations. The house of bells is for soldiers and war lords. The Cloister of Wisdom is run by Immaculate monks who teach balance and enlightenment to aid you on whatever path you choose to go on... the Spiral academy is a school for bureaucrats and future government officials, and The Heptagram is the sorcerous school, teaching both practical sorcery and artifact craft, as well as a great deal of other occult.... but now then... I graduated with a few honors... a few more than anyone expected of me."

" Then, one day.. someone came to me. A representative of a household of house Cynis that I had never heard of. they said that they wanted to make a deal with my family to marry me their Exalted son. I was shocked and amused that I had gained such a reputation that Exalts were coming to me with marriage offers. I agreed and sent word back to my own household, letting them know to go into negotiations. I was so happy, I decided to take a week off my training"

* glass knew that tone of voice that Bright had.. there were only two times he/she sounded like this..... when he was really angry... and this... it was only a matter of time before the inevitable happened*

" Now, without my knowing, my family had been tracking down some master martial artist Patrician and offered me to her family... I was angry at first, because I never had a chance to sow my wild dynastic oats, but I knew my family needed the money from such a union, so I didn't get too mad. We were scheduled to meet a month later, but that was of no worry to me"

"Aha but little did you know you would get stuck with this Roaring Wave kid." *Dal called with a laugh from his corner. He pointed a finger at Wave with a mischievous smirk on his face.* "I think the only honor you graduated with was this one here Wave... Don't think I haven't witnessed for myself just which of you was the harder worker, especially within my Dojo!"

" I had heard of our meeting, and my family said to show myself off like a prized show horse. They told me to wear something to show my body off, and wear lots of makeup" * She put her hands on her breasts, then up on her cheeks* " But I did not want to be just some doll for a Dragon. I came to the meeting in my gi with my hair tucked back... if it was Tari the Immaculate that they wanted for their Dynastic son, then I would come as Tari the Immaculate... and of course,he was a spoiled rude Dragon!"

" Ha!... I was expecting a silent timid Patrician, just like the ones some of my friends were married to... but she arrived looking like a monk! I laughed and asked her if that was the prettiest dress she owned, and if so, there were already problems with our alliance. she then struck me... and after I got back up, I knew I was in love.... but I had been shamed by being downed by a patrician" * Wave looked over to Dal and began yelling drunkenly at him* " What is that supposed to mean?! I am a Dragon-Blooded.. I was hand picked by the dragons! I am naturally adept by privilege of birth be a martial arts master without match! So what if I don't try as hard as my Patrician wife! She is mortal, she needs the repetition more than I do!"

*Dal laughed, and walked back over to take his seat, clapping Wave solidly on the shoulder before sitting.* "Keep telling yourself that brother!"

* Tari laughed at Wave and Dal's back and forth, then continued, feeling this had put Wave back into his back into his place better than any punch to the face could* " When we were alone, he said how he wanted to live a life that was more free.. like back on the islands. He was kinda whiny and liked to talk about how making fifteenth place in your whole school was a feat to be recognized"

" She kept harping on about how she wanted to be a dragon, and how I should work extra hard and not let my natural talent guide me my whole life... she also hated how she was placed into a ridged caste on the island.. she also wanted freedom.... and I do think that placing fifteenth out of a class of almost a thousand is an impressive feat indeed"

* Bright's body and clothing began glowing. not like a Solar's yellow, or a Lunar's silver.. but a soft white which became brighter as moments past* " Well then, the stories those eloquent tongues you fire aspects are well known for are not unwarranted. Tell me, are there other things they are good at?" * Bright giggle as she started becoming a pillar of white light, losing more and more visual definition, but still remaining solid*

" It was then we decided to leave the blessed isle together and find a new life together. We waited until we were married, then used the money from our wedding presents to hop a boat to the scavenger lands.. we have been together ever since"

*a smile quirked Mabija's lips and he raised a curious brow at Bright's... brightness... but decided that since he could still feel her this must be part of why she was a Solar's traveling companion. A bit of his mind kept wary, though, not wanting to find himself on the wrong side of an explosion or anything* Well quite often we are well-known for our skill at swordplay, as well as the heat of our passion

*Lirimana smiled at Tari and Wave, sighing softly as she sat next to them* That's so romantic

" We stayed in Great forks for a little while, then once we saw Ress in the sky, we knew that would be a great place to start a new life... im only glad we agreed to no kids until we found somewhere safe" * He nodded, then pondered how difficult it would have been hauling a pregnant Tari.. or worse! sneaking about streets, roads and, cities with a squalling baby*

"Well spoken you two... We are glad you have chosen our Empire to make your home, and shall it be the home of many more of your descendants!" *Dal grinned, looking around the room, wondering who would go next.*

* this had gone on far enough. Glass rummaged in his bag for something, then retrieved a small bone whistle, which he blew into , playing a low, slow soothing tune*

*Dal was sitting back wondering what exactly was happening with bright and why she was lit up like a street lamp, and when the whistle came out he was even more confused.* "Eh? What is it you are doing..."

* Bright's body slowly lessened in brightness, slowly once more becoming her/his self. Soon enough he was his normal self again* " Awww.... right when it was getting good...."

Hey, shiny... *Lirimana giggled and pointed at Bright* How come you're so shiny, Bright? Is it because your name is Bright? Ah, who am I kidding? The booze is wearing off... *the Twilight sighed and leaned back, still feeling the buzz of it in her system, but the loopy drunk sensation was gone... Maybe she should have gotten more* So, who's next?

" This thing?... this is a whistle made from the bone of an ancient Solar Eclipse who lived in our home town.a long time ago.. it doesn't mean much to anyone.. but it has an effect on bright here. I hold onto it so it doesn't fall into the wrong hands" * He put his whistle back into his bag, then sighed.* "of course I have to help him though... we are cousins after all... I think"

" Well thank you Glass.... for a wussy city dweller, you are a decent person. Maybe that's why we always got along... either that, or because we are both similar.." * he sighed and patted Mabija on the head, before leaning forward to get up* " Sorry fire-boy.. the moment is over"

*sitting up, Mabija sighed and made an exit accessible for Bright. He should have known this would happen. Well, nothing he could do now but try to regain some composure and listen to the stories. In his mind he reviewed what had been said as he got up and found himself a real seat* It was fun while it lasted *he flashed a smile at Bright and settled in*

" An Eclipses bones?... an eclipses bones can do things like that?!" * He looked down at his hands, then back at the group.. wondering what it was in his bones that could do that* " What exactly are you two.. if you don't mind my asking... I have wondered for a long time... I must say, there is a lot about southerners that I do not understand"

* bright hopped off the table, then turnned around, straightening out his clothing so that it was less reveling and baggy once more* " First of all, My mother is Grandmother Bright... I inherited my power from her...or should I say, Bright Sanguine Saber. Sometimes when I get angry or really drunk and out of control, my god nature rises past the surface and I become a goddess temporarily... a goddess of vengeance and passion"

"Exactly!.. and this eclipse I have the bone of was one that made a deal with Grandmother Bright to lessen her station... and it's music works to do the same to Bright when he has gotten a little too out of hand" * he patted his bag, the end of his veil landing into a half full cup*

* Sand leaned forward steepling his hands beneath his chin* And while his other nature is rather spectacular it can also cause a few problems. Vengeance and passion are like love and hate, both are strong emotions that can become the other if you aren't careful.

" Which is why a calming whistle is handy... huh, that makes perfect sense" * Ress nodded, tapping his bracers on each forearm* " well then, having god blooded is a very useful I would imagine.. I am even more glad you came along"

Well, my story isn't very interesting, but since no one else is interested, maybe mine will inspire something awesome *Mabija chuckled and leaned forward to rest his elbows on his knees* I was born and raised in Great Forks, so things like God-Blooded, Exalts, the Fair Folk and beings of that nature were fairly commonplace. I knew both of my parents, and neither were Dragon-Blooded, so I never had any expectations of that nature. From the time I was a baby I had a fascination with weapons, swords in particular. In fact, I was known to pretend fight with knives because they were more my size *he laughed at the memories, shaking his head a little* As soon as my father let me I started training to be a swordsmaster, and when I was older joined the Great Forks Legion

" The Great Forks Legion?... but Great Forks has no Legion.. it relies on Lookshy for all of its military strength... unless you are saying you were there in the war against the Deathlord?" * Kahn laughed as she spoke, finding the notion of a Great Forks Legion to be a very funny concept*

Everyone thought that it was just a joke, but we still existed, and were a secret force among the city. We kept the peace behind closed doors, and I even had a small team that I led with pride. When Emperor Ress's image appeared in the sky I realized that he offered more than just a new home and new way of life for me, he offered hope. Hope that I could be something more than just a hidden leader of a small unit in an army no one believed existed anymore. And so, since I lived on my own with no wife or children, I resigned from my post and said goodbye to my parents to stake my claim on the world *he smirked at Kahn's comment but ignored it, used to such ridicule* I was living in Imperveress and making a living off of teaching combat practices to the locals. I was putting myself through a new and more rigorous set of exercises when I felt a burning in the pit of my stomach that was suddenly consuming my entire being, and yet it didn't hurt. In fact, it took me a moment to realize that I had been Chosen by the Dragons... I don't really know what I did to attract Hesiesh's favor, but I thank every day for it. That, of course brought me to call on Ress where we worked out a deal so that I could start up an army and I made a name for myself, literally. And thus, Daimyo Mabija was born

" And I am grateful as well.. I am sure you will make a name for yourself, and as I promised, I have been looking for a wife for you.. Fire Aspected of course.... but of course, you will have to deliver as well" * ress put the side of his fist softly in the palm of his other hand as he spoke, punctuating his words with this motion* " Great Forks had a Legion spanning three cities at one time... it has since been broken in a fight with a deathlord... no small feat"

Yes, well, that was when I was young. Of course I will bring many children into this world as soon as I have a wife, Emperor. It will be something to celebrate, and celebrate we will. And that is the end to my story, simple and direct. Who would like to follow that? *a bittersweet smile lit Mabija's face*

"Interesting that you say you have experience with leading a small force, I have recently been recruiting and training martial artists for much the same purpose. I also have plans to train a naval guard for our coast line, something keep the waters secure and oversee trade, as well as crew the fleet we have in Imperveres... We should talk more about this, I would like very much to get them trained and combat ready."

If you like, I'm pretty busy with the Kideshen Army right now, but I could make some time to have a conference and maybe some joined training *he shrugged as he looked at Dal'Lumen, not sure if he could train a naval army very well*

Hopefully mine won't be boring... I guess I'll go next... So, um, where to start? Everyone was beginning at their births but I don't remember much of my early years. I've always had trouble sleeping peacefully so I spent lots of time trying to fix that by reading whatever I could find in the local library. I grew up in a small town with just my mother, my father died in a skirmish with barbarians just after I was born. My mother fell ill and died, though I tried healing her with the skills I had developed. While I had never managed to cure my sleep problems, I did become a pretty good healer. Once she died I wasn't very interested in sticking around in a place that held so many bad memories, and truth be told, I kind of worried that that place would be the death of me, too, if I stayed. So I

"Very well, in your own time then, I think I just need to dedicate more time to them, with my experience on the water I should be able to get something going without much trouble." *Dal turned his attention to Lirimana.*

ran off to try and get some training in Great Forks, and I did find someone. It's funny we never met, Mabija, we might have been friends before now.. Well, as you may know I have a problem speaking to anyone I find attractive, and unfortunately for me my teacher was the brother of a very sexy someone. She used to accompany me on my scavenging missions, a shameless hobby of mine, and it really was my own fault what happened next. As it turns out, she noticed my stuttering and inability to produce coherent sentences whenever she was around and thought it was cute... We were out in a ruin when she kissed me *Lirimana's face turned scarlet at the thoughts, though her expression remained somber* and I was so startled that I tripped a hidden wire trap.
At first we thought we had just narrowly escaped death when the trap whipped out blades and metal wires and we managed to dodge it all. Unfortunately, it wasn't really so, and after a few moments of laughter she said it was painful to laugh and when she pulled her hand from her side it was covered in blood. The scarlet shade spread through her clothes and was soon dripping down onto the earth. Of course I freaked out and frantically tried to save her, my healing skills being much better and I was close to being a master... It was just my luck that we were too far from any cities and that the herbs and medicines I had weren't enough to get us to one. I tried anyway, and managed to get us most of the way to the nearest city while trying to heal her wounds at the same time. The moment she died was the moment I exalted, and even then I was unable to bring her back *Lirimana wiped a tear from her eye, trying to hold it back but finding that she couldn't*
It ripped me apart for days, and after I had burned and buried her body I had to walk home alone to tell my master what had come of his sister and my friend. He banished me from his presence in his anger and so I left. I couldn't blame him, it was my fault after all, and he was hurting. I left a note telling him where she was buried and returned to my original town to find that it had been taken by the same barbarian tribe that had killed my father. For obvious reasons I didn't want to be under their rule and that caused me to wander. Ress's image appeared over the sky and at first I resisted, not feeling that I was clean enough to join a nation like Imperveress after what I had done. After a few weeks of persistent dreams involving moving to Imperveress and providing healing and proper schooling to a whole nation and how that would influence the world I gave in and asked Ress for a stake in this new life and he graciously gave me a home and now I have a lot of friends and a wonderful nation so eager to learn and heal *a few more tears fell down her cheeks, though this time it was of happiness* So, now that that sort of thing is over and done with... Next? *Lirimana wiped her eyes and smiled, tucking that story away so she could listen to the next one*

*Dal reached over and squeezed Lirimanas Arm, he smiled warmly.* " And my hide for one is grateful that you are so talented a healer, as you said, I got pretty messed up that day. Wave's bones thank you too!" *He leaned back into his seat and crossed his arms.*

" And if it were not for those unfortunate turns of events, you wouldn't have arrived here, Lirimana.. and as you know, this empire needs you. You are a healer like I have never seen before... and maybe if you find it inside you, sorcery will come as natural as breathing" * Ress smiled, every so often looking at arachnia... he knew the two didnt get along so well, but he did not think she could remain like stone against a story like that*

This is like therapy *she laughed a little and shrugged* It's good to be useful... As for sorcery, well, being a Twilight you'd think I would jump at that chance, but not for awhile. Besides, that's Arachnia's forte and I'm sure she's plenty for now *Lirimana smiled at that, wondering who would take over*

*Arachnia didn't look any worse for wear despite the heart-string pulling stories Lirimana and the others were giving. She didn't look bored, or angry, or sad or compassionate. At least she wasn't grinning in elation... She understood that a lot of people had it rough, and she knew that Lirimana had problems, especially when it came to anyone who wasn't ugly, but she didn't really feel bad for the woman. She had been called cold before, and so instead of looking gleeful, she had no expression at all*

That sucks, Liri, I'm sorry. On the bright side, you have that really hot Sai staying with us. And I know you have a man that visits sometime *Mabija winked and nudged her with his elbow*

It's okay, Mabija, thanks. You're right, of course, and if it doesn't kill you it makes you stronger, right? *Liri rubbed the back of her head bemusedly*

* Kahn sighed as she stood up, pulling her sticky shirt off from against her skin. she shook her head rapidly, fixing her hair from sticking together* " Well... I was born in a barbarian village, just outside the borders of Halta, but still, we called ourselves Haltans. I grew up with a large family. aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers sisters and of course, my parents and grand parents. We were a raiding village who served well by taking from The Linowan Nation, and The Haslanti League....no offense to either you Ress, or you Dal'Lumen.... but we were simple glory hungry tribe.... that was until a monster named Walker in Darkness crept into my village with two of his Exalts and a legion of ghosts"

*He shuttered, his lip curling as an eerie chill crawled up his spine.* "Oh oh... Ghosts... I don't like ghosts... Oh and none taken, I may bear the features and blood of the Linowan but I have always been from the neck, my fist home!"

" As was our custom, the eldest of our tribe fell fighting, and when the last of them died, the rest of us stopped and surrendered... as raiders, we know the value of a tactical withdraw to ensure the survival of our people... we thought we could escape later.. but we were all very wrong. soon as we arrived in the shadowland, we were shackled in black jade chains which were not of this world. It sapped us of our strength and our will... it seemed like we would never escape. But just when we thought our incarceration couldn't get any worse... it did.
they then started experimenting on us... strange forms of torture, systematically placed on each of us, the weakest of us first.. until we passed on... then their bodies were reanimated, and their souls burnt in a strange essence fire, then pounded into a black rock until it became some kind of evil soul eating magical material... I saw my two youngest siblings get forged down into it before my very eyes..." * The sides of Kahn's mouth turned slightly into a frown, speaking in a tone of anger,with a very slight waiver of sadness underneath*

*He uncrossed his arms, and shook his head unhappily, perhaps what she had said was true, she had something like the experiences he had. To witness the end of all that you once knew, imprisonment, and murdered family. He leaned back and poured the last cup of wine in the bottle. With somber eyes he dribbled a portion of the drink on the ground, and offered the cup to Khan without saying anything. He looked around the room into the faces of each person, most notably those that had lost a lot to be where they were now.* "To the ones we knew, and the ones we loved."

" It was about the time they were torturing me, Thats when I saw her. A beautiful woman with bow in hand, rideing a giant owl. She raised her bow and fired at my Exalted captor, turning him into a puddle of flesh. she then landed next to me, placed a kiss on my forehead and told me ' Take it from here, Kahn.. Its not enough that I chose you.. you must choose yourself. Then she ran off... it was about that time, I saw I was glowing.. and a new strength shot through me.. I then broke myelf free from my jade chains.. then dd the same to my people. I sent them off into the scavenger lands without me... but I stayed behind. I had to look upon the face of the being that captured and tortured my people... and kill him"

*Arachnia nodded with a pleased look on her face, knowing the awesome power and intimacy that an Exaltation from Luna could bring. Perhaps it was such kinship in being what they were, but the black widow found this story more effective than the others at giving her feelings, though mostly it was the thought of a Lunar gaining their honor and vengeance that got her*

* she hung her head low a moment, then lifted it up, she silently said ' no thank you' to Dal with a nod, then continuing as if she never stopped* " So I ran into the citadel of The Walker in Darkness, tearing apart every undead contraption or zombie... may of them made from the remnants of people I knew... that was until I arrived in the throne room of Walker in Darkness.... he was a monster clad in the same back material my people were murdered to create. I charged him, but no matter what I did, he was ten steps ahead of me, and when I did connect, his body flowed through my fingers like smoke.. this was something not of flesh and blood.. it was a monster that I just couldn't so much as harm.
[22:53] Drunken Defender: But when I started thinking this was not a good idea, my back erupted in a tide of blood and I hit the ground..." * She turned around, reveling a diagnal scar going from left to right through the small of her back... a wound that defiantly would have killed a mortal* " I thought I was dead... but a beautiful lady a green ribbon wrapped around her whole body stepped in. I guess he was afraid of her.. if anything could ever strike fear in that monster... he stepped away... I became a tiger and ran out into the wilderness... I eventually found someone to tattoo and train me.. but only a short time. I have always been a lone tiger. I found my tribe through my new senses... and found myself with a voice that speaks inside me. One that taught me my martial arts. It was the same voice that told me to come to your empire if I needed help" * She then turned around, bowed to the crowd and smirked a little, putting her hand on her hip* " And that is the story of Kahn"

*He set the wine down in the middle of the table and indicated that anyone that wanted it could have it. He found himself somewhat less distrustful after hearing Khans story, though with history like that she could very well still be dangerous. When he heard her say she had a voice that spoke inside her his Jaw could have hit the floor. Could it be that she had her own version of Cho-Hi-Xo? If that was true then she would be even more in touch with his ancient rival than he had anticipated. He would have to investigate such things.* "What do you mean... A voice that speaks inside you..."

" I cant say I fully understand it... but I can hear her when I am in trouble or really confused. She is very wise, and afraid of nothing... but she told me the whole way to Walker in Darkness that I should turn back. She is the strongest person I have ever known... and I have only seen her in my minds eye once..." * she nodded, looking at the sky, then back to Dal* "Why do you ask?"

*Lirimana chuckled at that, her mind wandering into what depths she knew* That is possible, and something tells me you know all about chatty lives. It's not a bad thing, you know. If we could tap into past lives with little to no downsides, then we would have valuable insight into the First Age and anything an Exalt of power knew

"Oh! Like your buddy, right?.. whats his name? Chow-Head-Zoo?.... never met him, but I have heard of him!" * Wave pumped his fist as he sat down, his head swimming from all the booze he had consumed* " I wish I had a friend in my head.... there are legends of that with Dragon-Blooded... how a Dragon can use up the essence that makes his mind, body and soul and use it to leave an imprint on all their descendants.... I don't know if it is true, but I went to school with people who said they had family that had done it.... and they were the top five students at the house of bells"

*Dal spluttered, and his face met his palm.* "Cho... Hi... Xo... Yeah, thanks guys." * He dropped his hand and looked back at Khan.* "Yeah, Look's like murdered families and shackles aren't the only things we have in common Khan. I Have the awakened consciousness of my first age Exaltation inside me, Admiral Chaplin Cho-Hi-Xo." *He shrugged, looking almost like he might blush.* "Now everyone knows!"

That's kind of hot, I didn't know you two were into that sort of thing... Let me know if you manage to bring Mr. Cho Hi Xo into this kinky party of yours. That would go great on my research papers! *her grin spread and Lirimana focused it on Dal'Lumen, more serious than one might think*

It's really nothing to be so upset about. Zeriku is my previous incarnation and I train with her in my Manse all the time. She was the previous Empress and an incredible sorceress, not much of a talker, though *Arachnia leaned back and crossed one leg over the other, linking her fingers together*

" Ress sighed and gave a nod... this had to be the reason why he did not drink so heavily.. the slip of the lip can sink a ship* " well.. its better that you let it out... secrets are a dangerous thing to keep, and now that you are among friends, you can trust us all"

"I'm not ashamed of it!" *He protested.* "It's not like I haven't used him to help the empire, it's just... a need to know sort of thing." *In this case, he wanted to hold this knowledge as advantage over Khan should it become useful, but now that was gone, and they were on even terms.* "He holds a great deal of his memory, and power, I've felt his strength first hand, even spent time in his ancient memories." *He rubbed his gut, remembering the fierce blow Cho had planted there.* "You have seen his power as well, when I woke my Warstrider up, that was him, when I turned that bastard corn god to a puddle... That was him."

I liked that *Arachnia nodded, a smirk plastered all over her face*

Hell, the only reason I have a giant feathered serpent in my manse, and know the secrets of the Cumulus elementals is because of his knowledge." *He shrugged, and looked at khan and wondered what she thought about this.*

" So, you have a full person inside you?.. name and everything? Well then, if you ever get tired of him... I can help you... by beating him out of you with my martial prowess! As you know, I stood toe to toe with a Deathlord and lived to tell the tale! and after I beat you, you will tell the tale. And after I do it again, you will have two... then again and again and again! until there is a story of every year of our lives!... but don't worry... there is nothing wrong with being second best" * she smirked as she tilted herself on her hip, placing her hand upon it* " Well then... I suppose it is lucky.. cause I can use you as a good long warm up until I take on Walker.... Legends say he is a martial artist without equal... but I am not sure to this day, because I never actually saw his strike.. it was too fast"

*Dal scowled, his eyes shooting daggers at Khan again, he had a few things he would have said, but he forced himself to keep a level head.* " Yeah... Do not forget where that pride got you the last time you faced a challenger you knew nothing about. Death lords are the enemy of all creation, I will fight beside you when the time comes that you wish to exact your vengeance, mark my words." * He turned his attention from her should he be pushed further to his temper, he became aware of Sand, and had grown very suspicious. Dal's eyes scanned the room, this strange quiet fellow Sand had said so little he was wondering if he should be worried about him at all, seemed like he had something to hide. So it was decided.* "Oy, You!" *He pointed at Sand.* "What's your story, I hate to say it but you're so quiet it's giving me the creeps, I feel like you're spying on us..." *Dal squinted at Sands Mirage suspiciously.* "What's your story southerner..."

* Sand sat up straight to give the bald Exalt a grin.* "Well that is my job after all." * He took a moment to take a look at people around him before he began* I was born in Chiaroscuro, my family was a minor nobility of little importance. We spent the summer season out among the tribes, my father was trying to improve our horses bloodline. * He paused with a wistful expression before giving himself a shake like a dog shedding water*

*Dal blinked a few times.* "So you ARE a spy! .. What tribes are you talking about... and what do your horses bloodlines have to do with any of that... What do you want with Imperveress spy!" *The admittance that he was a spy did nothing to settle Dal, nor did it keep him focused on the story being told, he continued to stare at Sand accusingly... Until that is, the man shook himself like a dog, he winced, almost expecting to be hit with saliva or something else he wouldn't like sprayed at him.*

*Arachnia raised a brow at Dal* Calm yourself , Dal'Lumen. He is a Night Caste, it is his job to spy for Imperveress. Perhaps you should refrain from drinking, and maybe even retire for the night. You'll hurt yourself

" Let him speak, Dal!... he is no spy and can do nothing against our great nation... a well placed oath always takes care of that.... relax and don't worry so much" * ress started as stern and reprimanding, but he trailed off and became more light... strange how ress' ruling style jumped all over the charts*

I brought my kit in case we need it, but this might be stress or mental problems. In which case he should rest and eat properly *Lirimana nodded at Dal and then looked at Sand* Go on, hun. It's your turn

" Dammit I'm not drunk... and I'm mentally and physically solid as a rock! So long as he works for us then forgive me..." *He sulked back into his chair, a little annoyed that his concern for Imperial security had resulted in him being scorned.*

" In Chiaroscuro the people are essentially split in two, the ones in the city and the nomadic tribes. " * He took the time to explain.* " We were visiting with the tribe one year when its was attacked. My parents weren't too concerned at first thinking it was simply bandits. They couldn't have been more wrong." * He looked down at his hands when he realized they were clenched into fists* " No not bandits at all... they were cultist of that accursed bitch Sondok." * He said her name as a snarled curse*" I was the only one that survived. My parents and the tribe that had become like family to me, they killed them as a sacrifice. Her destruction has been my goal ever since. For years after that I devoted my self to culling the cultist in Chiaroscuro, unfortunately I was captured once." * His eyes unfocused as he remembered that nightmare.* " I lost time of how long they held me in the tunnels under the city. The darkness wasn't so bad, darkness meant they weren't coming for you, its the light you learn to fear. There was already others held there waiting for their fates, one by one they were taken and all I could do was wait and hope I wasn't next.

*Dal, calmer now, nodded knowing full well what captivity like that was like. It became clear now why this man was as quiet as he was.*

" In the end I was the only one left in that cell, and I was determined to escape. I had managed to get the door open just before they arrived, all I could do was wait in a small niche in the wall. I remember how as they were passing my hiding place I slit the throat of the rear cultist with his own dagger then threw into into that back of the others skull. " * His eyes focused back on the present as he look at the others * " The moment that dagger left my hands I Exalted and I knew I would never let another come for me in the darkness, that I would be the one coming for them." * He said in a firm voice.* " I left those tunnels with the head cultists robes to make sure I never forget what I learned there. I eventually came to realize that even as an Exalt I wouldn't be able to destroy Sondok on my own and so I found allies." * He finished with a gesture encompassing them all.*

" You found us?!.. what do you mean you found us? We are your distant cousins! * Glass spoke up as if from nowhere, almost insulted at the notion of being 'found'* " We knew each other as kids... of course we didn't associate that much because I was a god blooded and you were mortal.. but still, you didn't just find us like a ring in the sand!"

" Yeah! You knew me before I wore this!" * Bright grabbed his grey sash, giving it a small tug, before tugging at his veil* " and this too! Come on, we have history! and I never liked the cult of Sondok either! I guess sometimes being open to other peoples religions is a bad thing""

* Sand gave a laugh at the their indignant reactions. * " Hell you two aren't allies! You're family! You should know that after all we've been through."

[Arachnia of the Hour]

* Ress nodded, thinking over the name Sondok, knowing for a fact he had heard it before in some significant way. pushing the thought to the side. He then gave sand a smile and nodded to him* " So you have a hate for demons? I cant say that I have any love for them myself... a careful reminder of how things could have been... so you escaped from a cult? no doubt lead by blood apes or the like. I am impressed, Sand, but at the same time I know very little of Exalts of your Caste.I am grateful for those events though... if not for them, we would not have you here on the team."

* Reed continued to hang from the ceiling by his toes. surprisingly comfortable in this position, having spent as much time upside-down as he had right side up. There were many things that these grown ups did that just did not make much sense to this ten year old haltan, but all the same, he clung onto every word they said as if it were the pipe he was hanging from, excited as the stories went on... because he knew once they were done, he would be next! He swayed from side to side in his excitement, almost unable to contain himself that by the end of this journey, he should be among the ranks of the Exalted!"

*Oddly enough, the thought of a dagger in the back of the skull caused Dal to grimace. It wasn't that he had not told the group seated around him about his own revenge killing... however perhaps not in detail enough to imagine how it might have felt, on both ends. He leaned back in his chair, and tried to hide the expression with a yawn.*

"Hey yeah... Glad to have you, now that I know you're not secretly trying to bring about the fall of this Empire."
*Glanced around the room, tilting away in his seat from the swinging monkey child, as if to avoid a chance head butt.*

* Kahn looked around the room, every so often tossing her hair back to avoid the uncomfortable sticky sensation she got when her hair settled on her back.. what with the fruitless dousing in elderberry wine* " So who does that leave next?.... how about you Elder Arachnia? How did you end up here?" * She sat up straight, staring right at Arachnia, her eyes filled with hero worship, intent on hearing the life story of her own Elder Patron Lunar."

*as Kahn addressed her, Arachnia sat up a little straighter and sighed inside herself. At Kahn's her worship so plain on her face she figured she would have to make this more interesting than she had originally planned*

Well, much like Ress, I was born and raised in the North, in a small city that didn't have a lot of innovation. Unlike Ress, however, I didn't have that many brothers and sisters, we only had as many children as we could feed in my family, and it wasn't much. As I grew up I was always full of ideas on how to make life better but nothing ever seemed to work, so I grew interested in the arcane arts, though the only one I could get any access to at that point in my life was thaumaturgy, and even that I couldn't really find. When my mother died it made it more difficult for my family to support itself, and so I decided that I needed to take drastic measures and try to find either a master to teach me thaumaturgy, or something better than that. Late at night I set out to make my way to Whitewall, having heard that they might be harboring at least one of those options

*the Empress ran her fingers through her hair before continuing*

Before I Exalted I didn't have as full a figure as I do now, and that sort of thing takes its toll on a woman with no one to warm her up at night, and that was most definitely the case as I had left any lovers back home. Despite it all I made it to my destination and was most disappointed to find that they had none of what I wanted, but suggested I search out a hermit woman deep in the Northern recesses. She was surrounded by an icy canyon that I would have to cross, but if I could make it, then the rewards would more than make up for my hardships. Of course I was interested, especially after the thorough beating the enviroment was giving me, but they wouldn't let me stay the night so I was back out in the snowy tundra. The directions were shoddy at best, but it never made a difference, because I never found her. After months of walking alone with so little food and rest I was growing weary and ended up making a fatal green mistake. With power for me and my family so near I kept going and didn't pay any attention to the signs of an avalanche, which of course, swept me up and buried me alive. I know its mean to say such things, but as soon as I realized how foolish I had been I didn't think of my family, only how sad I was that it was going to take longer to find this mystery woman. I guess I didn't really think I was going to die until I found that I couldn't move and that air was disappearing fast. It came in handy for me, then, that I was well-versed in the control of my body, and through gentle movements tried to keep my heart from racing and wiggle my way out at the same time. It could have only been minutes, but it felt like days, when I had to squint against the majesty of a woman who was floating in an icy encasement in front of me. Somehow she was able to move, and her beautiful silver hair flowed even in the compact prison she shared with me. I couldn't help the tears that fell when she held me close and warmth flushed through my body and I felt as though I could climb for years. She smiled as she wiped my tears and walked upwards out of the snow, looking back to check on me before whispering in a voice I knew only I could hear, telling me that I was hers now, and I would do well to not let her down by dying. With that new empowerment I slipped through the ice the last couple of inches and found freedom. Once I was out I continued on, trying to keep my newly-glowing face from attracting too much attention, though it only hindered any hunts I tried since there wasn't anyone as alive as I was after that avalanche if they had been in the area. Not too long after I was approached by another Lunar who became my Mentor. He brought me into the Silver Pact and was the one who taught me sorcery. He said that he owed my previous life a debt and had promised to find the next life she had and teach her the ways he was. Partway through he was on a hunt for a particularly dangerous chimera and sacrificed himself to save the whole pack. Despite that he left me to fend for myself I was proud of him, he was like a father to me. My family is still up in the North somewhere, they probably think I'm dead but are at least a mouth less.. I developed a cult to Luna after I was tattooed and initiated into sorcery, and they see me as a conduit or piece of Luna and venerate her through me. That's where Ress found me, in my little nest I had created not too far from Imperveress. For whatever reason the other Elders had no interest in placing me with another Mentor, saying that they thought I was doing fine without one. Of course they gave me Elder status myself after Ress and I started ruling the empire together . That day we met was sensual, the air was sweet and caressed the soul, and the silk on my skin seemed to be kissing its way across my skin with intention. I knew something was going to happen that day, and the moment I saw Ress I knew he was mine. Part of my very soul cried out to know him, and so I couldn't help but seduce him

*At that, Arachnia winked at Ress and gave him a kiss on his neck*

Of course, he enjoyed it just as much as I did, I was determined to make sure of that...

*she drifted off, then, lost in the memories of sweet sexuality*

*Ress' cheeks turned a little pink as his hair began sticking out in all directions. He smiled a little, then gave a nod, remembering their meeting as well. He heaved a sigh, then started smoothing his hair out once more.. as 'surprised charlie brown' hair was not presentable as an Emperor* " Ah yes.. I remember that day very well.... and it was then I knew Imperveress needed more Exalts besides myself.... before that, I was afraid to let others in... mostly because I had grown up hearing stories of golden tyrants who crushed the souls of mortals with a glance.... and the silver beasts who were like demons of creation, bringing savage brutality and frenzies of death where they pass... but now I know that isn't always so"

" To be completely fair, I bring savage brutality and frenzies of death where I pass... only when prompted to of course, weather by insult or pushed to acts of glory!... but of course, I am not just a warrior" * She giggled to her self, then made a purring sound as she lounged back in her chair, her orange and black hair falling part way across her face*

I have this urge to pet you right now.... *Lirimana had an expression that said both curiosity and shame*

*Dal Snorted, less than quietly, and not far from indignantly.*

"Hah! Careful Lirimana, I think that ones bites!"

*He carried on chuckling to himself a moment, finding it amusing that Kahn had admitted to being almost exactly what Ress had expressed was his first fearful impression of Lunars.*

"Honestly Arachnia, I have never seen snow... or ice... nor do I know what exactly an avalanche is... but I am no fan of cold water, and I imagine I wouldn't much like water so cold it has turned itself solid. Being buried alive within it sounds like a bad nightmare."

* She purred again, this time stretching out,then stopping to stare at Lirimana, she motioned her over with a tilt of her head* " You can if you like, Solar, but be careful... there are places this cat likes to be pet.. and places she will bite you if you do... but of course, it is many times hard to tell which is which" * she winked, then let herself lay back in her seat, making those same purring noises as before*

*Lirimana made a funny face at that, her lips pursing as though the decision she was making was rather difficult, and at the mention of biting her eyes got wider and she bit her lip, though it looked more like she was resisting the urge to say something and she scooted over, inching a little at a time in case Kahn changed her mind partway through. She extended her hand to stroke Kahn's hair, pulling a brush out of her bag so she could use her healing hands on the tangled mess that a barbarian warrioress's hair could become* Let Doctor Liri take care of you.. heehee

*Arachnia leaned on Ress and nibbled his ear just a little before winking at them all* I suppose if I really felt like it I could go on a rampage, but it's just something I reserve for special occasions these days... *her lips puckered in amusement as she watched Lirimana brush the tigress's hair, trying not to hope she would mangle the Twilight in the process. Her gaze turned to Dal* No, think freezing dirt that surrounds you and makes it so you can't move or breathe, and every time you try it gets into your nostrils and mouth and you slowly suffocate while your mind and heart start to race in an attempt to give you extra strength to make it out alive. Without outside help any normal person would die in a few minutes *she shrugged and smiled* That's nothing for you to worry about, however, there are many of us to pull you out of such a situation...

"So an Avalanche is not unlike the mudslides brought on by the rainy season of the west..." *He pinched his chin ponderously. Nodding to himself after a few seconds he looked back down and snapped his fingers.* "Well if snow is as hungry as you say it is, I think I'll just avoid it! I don't much like being cold any how! "

*He grinned and looked from side to side, bringing his arms up... giving them a hardy flex.*

"As you can see, I am no normal person! Hah, I think there is no snow that will conquer a child of the sun!"

*Sounding almost like he had the impression that snow was a living creature made of frozen dirt.*

* Ress shivered as his ear was bitten, making his hair stick out super saiyan style. He didn't move for a moment, then shook his whole head, sending his hair cascading down all around him, he then tossed his head to the side, bringing his white hair back around as well. Ress nodded, playing like nothing had just happened* " I never went too far out into the snow myself in fear of avalanches... that's part of why i became a sky boat pilot. I knew a lot of people who died out in the wild of the north. I feel more comfortable in my emeralds "

" Oh! Me next!!" * Reed could no longer contain himself as he spoke out with no warning. he swung violently from the pipe, then let go, sailing a few feet from where he hung, landing safely on the ship's floor* " Well, I am not very old... so my story starts before I was born! My mom lived far east, in the heart of The Republic of Halta. She was part of the auxilliary army there, so she was used to being garrisoned in places all over the east. One day, she was stationed at the borders of creation, having heard that the archfiend Vessickar was planning on leading an assault on Halta for growing their trees too tall so he could no longer see creation's starry night sky.

She told me the opposition's armies poured out of the wyld like wind through the redwood forests, fierce and without direction!"

* He paused a moment, thinking over the story his mother told him and trying to use all the same words she had... otherwise, the story might not have the same impact. he leaped up into the air when he remembered, then continued when his feet hit the ground*

" She was surprized to see that she could knock away a dozen or so without trying, and when they hit her, she only looked injured, but was not hurt in any way. Despite these facts, the fighting went on for four days, almost non stop. it only ended when an unexpected hero stepped out from the trees and cut the archfiend down in his tracks... but the beast was waiting for this and had placed upon his body an enchantment that would cause a wyld storm to erupt should he fall in battle. Most of the troops did not make it out of there, and many of the ones that did, did not return the way they had came. It was then my mother was decorated a war hero and was offered lifetime citizenship, pardoning anything she had done and anything she would do in the future.

It was then she found that she was tired of battle and quit the army. she moved to the western fringes of Halta, where she lived off favors that her position had lent her. that was also when she met my dad!

Later that year, I was born... and a few years later, so were my sisters! When I was eight, mom and dad saw Emperor Ress' face in the sky and moved to Ramoth with the other Haltans who sought a new life. and from there! it has been me picking up where mom left off! Being a warrior, a leader, a trailblazer and a future exalt! And now with my friend Ghronder, there is nothing I cant do!... oh yeah, and now I am here!" * Reed leapt up and down a few more times, showing how much of a rambunctious kid he could be... *

"If you recall from my story on the Island I came from, age ten was the year boys were expected to become men, tradition dictated that some implement of the hunt and fishing was giving to the boy and he was expected to keep up with men after that point, using the same tool given to them." *Dal pointed down at the knife at reeds hip.*

"You have that, now you must prove yourself, use your head though, proving yourself a man is worth nothing to a dead man."

*He looked over at Jakisi wondering where she fit in this story, and feeling that now that Reed had told his story she would likley be soon to follow.*

"What about you little one, tell us about your story."

*Jakisi looked up at Dal'Lumen and smiled, such a contrast to Reed's hyperactive stance on life in her quiet and well-behaved silence thus far. She stood up so she was more easily seen and nodded* Alright, I will, then. Much like Reed my story began before I was born. My father is Verumpira, the Ambassador and guardian of Hell. Malfeas is the proper term for those who are interested, and he is almost finished with his term, a feat that has never happened. Unfortunately for Yu Shan, the previous people who had my father's position were either killed or corrupted, but not my dad *she allowed herself a small smile of pride before continuing, the bit of beaming she had done set aside for her speech* My mother is a master thaumaturge, knowing almost all of the Paths, and she has perfected the ones she does know. My father is quite the charmer, and when he met my mother he knew she would be perfect to have children with, and so he decided that they should get married. At first my mom thought he was joking, but she eventually grew to love him and gave in. We all know how a baby is made, so I'm not going to go into any more detail than I was brought about with their wedding night. Ever since I was conceived I have been groomed to become the next guardian and ambassador to Malfeas, and have found that I have some very interesting times with that role. I am honored and excited to be worthy of walking in my father's footsteps, and my mom is very good about our studies *she gestured to Reed as she said that* Before the school was built my mother taught us both, and I watch over Reed to make sure that he doesn't destroy anything and do what I can to help Emperor Ress. In conclusion, we snuck onto this airship in order to be a part of the adventure, and so I hope my skills will be of use to you. I might not look it, but I am a capable fighter, so please don't feel that I need to be protected any more than the other members of this group *with that she folded her hands and took her seat*

Wow, that's some job you have... *Mabija laughed a little and rubbed his thumb over his chin as he thought about a little girl warding off the big bad nasties of Malfeas*

* Ress nodded, having heard fragments of this story from Jakisis mother, but glad he now knew the whole truth. He had never heard of any Verumpira before, but if this god was as strong as he sounded, one could only imagine how powerful his daughter might be* " Well then, an unexpected blessing I see. Well then, if one is the child of the being who governs the yozis and another a slayer of anhuls, there may be a place for you here after all.... so Jakisi, can you give us a demonstration of what you can do? we have seen Reed's acrobatic skills after all"

I'd be happy to *Jakisi lifted her hand and pointed to a bare place on the group's floor. Her voice became authoritative and she commanded the words* Angyalkae. *a little swirl of wind and a beautiful and breakable-looking woman appeared in a standing position in the spot Jakisi had gestured at. The woman's ears were pointy and she had long wispy silver hair and bright blue eyes. Her hands were a myriad of tiny and long fingers that swayed a little as she stood there. The woman looked at Jakisi and bowed, her voice a stunning melodic singsong* Mistress? *Jakisi smiled and nodded to a spare chair before speaking* Please provide us with a beautiful spring tune to listen to while we talk *the woman took the seat offered and lifted her hands up as though she were playing the harp and as soon as her fingers moved she was playing a lovely and light-hearted song. Jakisi turned to Ress* I'm afraid I can only summon first circle demons at the moment, but I'm anticipating the ability to upgrade the number of circles as I get older. I am only ten after all

*Arachnia's eyes narrowed at the new arrival, but she didn't say anything, content in the knowledge that she could fix the problem if it arose. Angyalkae were generally not known for their violence, however, and she decided to sit back and enjoy the music*

*Lirimana paused in her brushing for a moment and grinned* Hey, that's neat! *she couldn't help but blush at the beautiful harpist and she offered her a shy smile* I love your music....

* Ress sat in silent shock, still trying to understand what it was he just saw. When his head finally caught up with the situation he smiled and clapped* " You can summon demons without spells? That is impressive! once they have been summoned, do you have control over them, or are they left to their own devices? is that why you summoned such a harmless demon?.. or simply because you know the species of demon so well, you figured this one would be most appropriate for the situation?"

I could make her do whatever I want her to, but I figured that some nice music would be better than watching me have an Erymanthoi tap dance. I can also banish her at will when I'm done *Jakisi shrugged, wondering if that last option might have been more entertaining for the group here.. The harpist smiled at Lirimana, not saying anything*

*Dal resisted the urge to leap to his feet and attack the deamon outright, once he realized it seemed harmless he relaxed, nodding his head silently, content that the day was not yet doomed.* "Hey... not bad." *He scrutinized the demon like she were a fishing canoe up for sale.*

*He wondered how this girl might change the situation he had with the water demons that he had helped Asra with. It had been some time since last he thought about the greusome concoction required to summon the big'boss' demon as he had simplified it.*

"We have been having some trouble for a while now with those demons in the water, we, and by we I mean Quie-Ra's Elementals, and the two kids from the town have just been killing them on sight, I think it might work out better for everyone if we could just drive them all away."

Well, if they're from the first circle I won't have a problem. What are they, if you don't mind my asking? *Jakisi turned so she was facing Dal'Lumen as they spoke*

"Err they were, strange, wriggling things, gave life to metal... they were called..." * He paused and pinched his chin, thinking hard on what the name of the demon he had tackled in the water was. SlimShin... DimJims... His eyes widened when he remembered, simultaneously wagging his finger victoriously at Jakisi.*

"Demjen... Thats what it was called, said he was ordered by some jeweled otter to watch Asra, the young half lintha from Beziar."

Jeweled Otter? You mean Guemela? Well, the Demjens aren't a problem, but Guemela is in the second circle, so I'm afraid that is out of my range just yet. I wasn't aware that Lintha let their children leave the fold... *Jakisi nodded, filing away that bit of information until later*

"Ah!, Well then we shall sort something out, banishing the underlings frequently enough may send a message this Guemela, the demon may find it is not worth the effort." *He sat back in his chair, nodding his head to the music, managing to relax and close his eyes after a short while.*

* Kahn's purring continued as she was brushed by Lirimana. She stretched and moved very cat like as she was brushed. The stripes in her hair became brighter and glowed softly, rimmed with silver, as did the tattoos that stretched all over her body. When Kahn opened her eyes, no longer were they ' cat like' they were exactly what you would see on a tiger. She yawned large and tiger like, relaxed by the feeling of being brushed and by the sound of demon music... not at all bothered by the presence of a thing infernal.*

" Its times like these I remember I haven't gotten laid in months"

*Jakisi smiled at Dal'Lumen * Sure, I can help you get rid of the Demjens soon after we get back *she looked over at Kahn and offered her the same smile* You could always find a willing partner with ease, Miss Kahn. A beautiful tiger-woman like yourself has already drawn eyes, after all

* Kahn pondered a moment on what Jakisi had said, then nodded, looking around the room for who might be the lucky person or persons this time... of course taking note of current relations and the attachments they had to one another, as well as whether or not she could get away with it*

" I'll do it! I am not sure what it is, but I am going to be a solar one day, and I can do anything!... plus, you seem like a nice lady Kahn, if its something you want, i'll do everything I can to get it for you!" * Reed jumped up and down again, this time pulling the dagger out of its sheath and swinging it about... but better a swordsman than anyone should be at his age (Melee:2 ). He leaped into the air, twisting himself counter clockwise through the air, arcing his swing, then at the last moment, switching from his right hand to his left foot to continue following through with the strike on his non-existent foe. He landed on his left hand and foot, using his right hand for balance and his left foot still holding the blade out to block if need be*

* Kahn couldn't help but laugh at the words and display of this young haltan boy. She clapped for him, calming herself enough to speak* " Well brave warrior, come back and ask me in another ten years... if you don't change much, you might still be my type when you are older."

*A loud thud and a streak of red gold and white would bring, reluctantly, attention on Dal'Lumen, who had just fallen out of his chair in a fit of laughter so intense his face had become close to as red as his pants, and it would be clear to those watching he was struggling to so much as breath. His usual infallible coordination failing him as his body became a brown skinned bald headed puddle of gasping Zenith. As quickly as it had come he stopped and looked around the room, realizing he had made a scene, he quickly popped up to his hands and acted like he was doing push-ups*

"Ho... hold on... just... hahaha.. I mean... ah yup there we go!"

*He jumped off the ground and walked back to his window corner.*

"Reed, I don't think you're quite ready to use 'That' tool of manhood..."

* He turned his face out the window, trying to remain stoic, but the quick jerking of his shoulders betrayed the fact that he was still fighting back laughter*

PFFT! *Lirimana put her hand over her mouth and laughed into her arm as Reed went on with his display, unable to hide her amusement* Oh, dear Gods... That's cute!

*Arachnia's face held a look of incredulity at the things young ones said. Kids say the damndest things, it would seem*

*Jakisi blinked at Reed, settling her hand on her palm as she processed what he said and how everyone had reacted. She probably shouldn't have said anything...*

*Mabija couldn't help but burst out laughing at this Reed kid.. The girl was cool but Reed was a lot more fun. He wiped his eyes with his hand and shook his head in disbelief*

".....?" *Kahn was jolted from her relaxation by the sounds of an erupting Zenith. , then put her hand over her face as she heard him trying to explain farther to the ten year old Haltan. she shook her head as she looked up at lirimana, smirking a bit* " So, do you think you and I can make Dal'Lumen stick in the mud over there jealous... or do you think we will have to have Roaring Wave and Tari over there join us?.. either way,it could be a fun game!: * She looked to the Dragon-blooded and his patrician wife, giving them both a wink*

* Wave spit out some of the elderberry wine he was drinking when he heard Kahn's words, sitting there stunned a moment, before turning to Tari, grinning as if to say ' c'mon.. what do ya say?'. He put a hand on Tari's thigh to emphasize the moment*

* Tari scowled at Wave for a moment, then punched him dead in the face, she huffed a little, then looked over to Kahn and Lirimana* " Maybe if you skip over my husband and we join together with Mabija over there, maybe we can talk!"

Hey, I'm game! *he gave Tari and the other two a wink, looking them over appreciatively. Oh the trouble this would be! Good thing there are ways to keep unwanted pregnancies away, he laughed a little inside, figuring Wave would remember him being able to please Tari better*

*With an annoyed glance over his shoulder, Dal scoffed at the prospect of him being made jealous. His commitment to repentance was stronger than emotions so low as envy. He thought to himself, hoping to take strength in knowing that his conviction wouldn't be worth doing at all if it wasn't a challenge. He attempted to suffocate any other thoughts, tempting as they may be, with this, to what most would likely think was little to no success.*

"Good luck..." *He fumed to himself in the corner while the others made arrangements.*

".....!!!!" * Wave's face became red with anger, but then he heaved a sigh, then took in a deep calming breath* " You know what?.. I am not as big a fan of getting punched as you might think I am... and if you want out of what our parents put us into, that's fine... we came to the perfect place for it! Have your fun, just remember where I have always stood. As a dragon-Blooded, do you not think I get dragon sized urges myself?... I keep them all in control too. You think Mabija is going to marry you?.. he can't! not only are you water aspected, you aren't even a dragon! Remember his decree? Cause I do!"... * Wave sat back.. feeling better he had gotten that out. He put his hands on his knees, wondering what might happen next... getting hit.. divorced... finding a hot young dragon-blooded wife to replace her?.... nah, he knew how he really felt and just waited for things to snap back to the way they were*

* Tari stopped in her tracks.. then heaved a heavy sigh, patting Wave on his thigh and rested her head on his shoulder* " I'm sorry...."

* Kahn didn't mean to start a fight between the two terrestrial bloodeds... but was happy to see their spat was short lived. She huffed over at Dal, then spoke up to him, forgetting all about the proposals* " You know, you big whiner... I have half a mind to find an empty cargo hold here and just beat the gloom out of you. Maybe that is obscuring the sunlight from you, cause for someone who represents most of his light, you are pretty gloomy and brooding... more like one of those...." * She snapped her fingers and rolled her eyes upwards, trying to remember the name of them... and soon enough came up with it* " Midnight! That's it! You sound more like a Midnight Abyssal! and it is getting on my nerves. Life is great! it has things like fighting and drinks and breasts and an immeasurable number of things. the Sun is wonderful, but maybe you would do well to take a lesson from the moon!"

Guess that's out, then... *he shrugged and looked at Roaring Wave and Tari, giving Wave a pouty-face. As much as Mabija liked making Roaring Wave mad, he hadn't wanted a marital squabble.. Jeeze these two were way uptight... Maybe Wave really wasn't pleasing his woman. Could it be some sort of anxiety? Maybe it was just because his wife was better than him* Too bad, I would have loved to rock your wife's night...

*Dal smirked to himself before turning around from the window, amused, oddly enough, more than he was insulted. While he didn't much appreciate being related to any sort of abyssal, nor this woman's blatant criticism, and judgment. He resisted the urge to say what came to mind first, which had something to do with Kahn being a whore and him not throwing his Exalted dick on anything that gave him eyes. Instead he turned round and grinned at her.*

" There are such things as self control, and strength of will Kahn... Perhaps I may not be up to your standards of every day indulgence, but I like plenty of the things you just mentioned all the same, I just show restraint. Perhaps You could learn a lesson from the Sun Tiger-Woman!"

" Yeah? Well I never said I couldn't. Like I said, the Sun is great and has a lot to teach. Maybe that is why I am here. And restraint is great, I never said it wasn't... but at the same time, remember what I said... ' I have not been laid in months.' I am showing restraint as well, but at the same time, I have a great time. I won't claim to know the will of The Unconquered Sun or Luna or anyone... but I don't let my duties get in the way of being happy.. and I don't let my life get in the way of my duties either" * Kahn went from insulting to understanding in the blink of an eye. her expression more like that of an old friend trying to inspire their friend out of a depression with some tough truth and encouraging words*

*This change in attitude came as something of a shock to Dal, again he resisted the urge to exclaim 'why do you care anyway.' He took a few steps toward the group, approaching Kahn directly, for what was probably the first time, and stopped a stride away from her, deciding it wouldn't kill him to explain a few things.*

"You don't need to lecture me, no matter the intention." *He laughed a little and grinned as he rubbed his head.*

"I'm not naturally bald you know! This was... well.. I guess my exaltation was not unlike rebirth for me, the battle for freedom, the Impossible majesty and power of the Unconquered Sun rattling my bones, forcing me to my knees, the evil in me died that day in the glory of his light..."

"I'm a new man you could say... Hell, my name even changed, it was <Seatongue> 'Ashen Wind' <River Speak> "Or Translated roughly it means Wind The Color of Ash, Ashen Wind."

*He turned his back on the group after glancing around the room realizing most of the people probably didn't need a translation, nor was his long explanation likely very interesting.*

"It might be hard to understand, but I can't just put a time limit on my penitence, and I can't just toss it aside come the opportunity for a quick lay, copious portions of alcohol, licked from gleaming breasts... and a wild... Passion fueled night followed by a morning hangover that wakes you up naked in a strangers wagon not knowing the name of the girl you'd had that night, as you realize that same wagon has been towed by a flatulent donkey, and an irate driver two leagues out of town while you were sleeping..."

*He paused, trying to focus while said memories flooded his mind, and collided with his original point, he turned back around as he continued.*

"Err... Well uh... You may know more about me than any person aught in less than a day, but if you think I'm so gloomy, then there is a lot more to learn moon child."

[Arachnia of the Hour]

* Kahn nodded sagaciously, taking in Dal's rational on the subject... then turned to speak to him* " I think what you need after this whole penitence thing is balance. Partying out of control and sleeping around is a great way to forget.. but its also a great way to lose yourself... but at the same time, becoming a monk and keeping yourself on a short leash while life passes you by is like being a slave again... I'll respect your self imposed punishment for now.. but after that, no more" * Kahn leaned forward and placed a kiss on the tip of Dal's nose. When she sat back, she then socked him dead in his arm* " but sometime between then and now, I am going to knock your dick in the dirt!... this I promise you, Sun martial artist!" * Kahn was now half glaring, have cocky smiling at Dal, telling him that she meant what she said and Dal could do nothing but accept his fate*

*Dal was more staggered by the suddenness of Kahns face being so close to his, and being as affectionate as she was that when the punch came he was already shocked to the point that the punch seemed to do little more than cause him to jolt sideways lazily. He blinked his eyes a few times, in a snap becoming aware of the ache in his arm. With a twitching eyebrow he looked down at her smug taunting smile, not sure exactly what to say to what had just happened, such stark contrast in behavior from one second to the next.*

"Err... I have no doubt you will try..."

* Scratched his head, finding himself fantastically confused, and nothing else to do about it other than to plop back into his chair.

* Wave saw the confusion on Dal's face, and in a foolhardy attempt to alleviate the awkwardness of the situation, he plunged headlong into a new subject. He leaped to his feet, hunched over, placing a hand on either knee as he braced there. Wave heaved a hard sigh before speaking* " So it seems that Guemela demon needs to be contacted.. and the only method is abundantly clear....." * He then stood up straight, holding his fist out to dal, stone faced serious with a hint of dread* " Rock, paper, scissors to see who has to do the summoning" * his eyebrow twitched slightly as he stood there, fist out and dreading every second*

* Kahn plopped back into her chair, continuing her purring as her eyes closed, happy that her point had gotten across* " but until then.... I am going to relax..... who knows what we are up against out there... we might have to go underground or something"

*Mabija sat back in his chair and tried to keep quiet lest he miss who lost this random game of rock, paper, scissors. He would ask later what made this such a formidable option, for now he kept his snickering inside*

*Lirimana set back to her brushing, the victim taking up her place again in the chair. She hummed a little and used it to mask a laugh, that really didn't hide it at all, knowing how to summon Guemela and that as messed up as it might be to see it done, she just might have to. In the name of science, of course...... Not morbid curiosity at all, no no*

"You're serious?" *He said dumbfounded. The summoning of a second circle demon determined by a simple game of rock paper scissors.*

"Oh... you're serious! Well uh... you realize that as your superior officer I could just... order you to do it, don't you Wave, I mean how hard could it be right?"

*He shook his head, knowing all too well the appalling coctail required to bring out the demon, but also knowing that Wave was not around the day that he had heard the recipe from the servants mouth. Did he perhaps know how to do it already? He of course was not really going to force wave to do it, but it seemed like a great opportunity for a joke.*

"Wave... In the name of the Emperor Ress, I order you to fill a cup with these ingredients... Find some string so knotted that it could never be undone... some of that wine, some blood, and then go dip your wick in it and add some of your special dragon sauce."

*Dal fought back a smirk as he waved his hand carelessly in Roaring Waves direction, as if to dismiss him to his imperial duty.* "Go on then, we don't have all night."

* Wave gave Dal a questioning look, then went stone faced and looked over to Emperor Ress, bowing low as he grabbed his daiklaive from his hip and put its tip to the ground* " Emperor Ress, I humbly request a transfer from under admiral Dal'Lumen, to whoever should take upon the mantle of protectorate of the city of Ramoth!.... I am afraid I am almost non-negotiable, should my terms not be heeded, I will be forced to perform self castration, hereby diminishing the number of future exalts greatly!"

* wave snickered slightly, but his face was covered by his blue hair as he continued to bow*

*Jakisi couldn't take it anymore, her hand over her mouth in a delicate gesture to keep from laughing, though a giggle managed to escape*

*Dal shot a severe glance at roaring wave.* "Oh... And who would take a dragon that can't follow a simple order like that? So quick to try to abandon ship... once you have been asked to make an order happen." *He leaned in closer to Wave.* " What's the problem here... You can fulfill this command can't you... all of it? Unless there's something holding you back?"

* Ress put a hand over his mouth as to hold back a laugh, but it was written all over his face how he felt... hilarious! Ress shook his head, pulling his hand away to speak* " now now, Wave... I cannot move you to someone who does not exist yet! You will have to tough it out... and as for self castration, that is your choice. If you are so dead set on ending your fertility, I say go for it"

*Arachnia sighed and shook her head, sitting up in her seat now* Boys, boys, no need for such frivolous ideas as knocking out the option for children and abhorring processes like the one to summon Guemela. When we need to, I can simply summon him for you

* Sand shifted in his seat as he watched the show. * " Not to mention this is hardly an ideal place to even consider a summoning. "

* Tari reached out and pulled Wave back into his chair by his scabbard, causing him to plop down with a thud. she rolled her eyes as his daiklaive rolled to the side and landed harmlessly on the ground* " Besides... I am in charge of whether or not we have children... not you, Wave!"

"EEP!!" * Wave fell backwards, then chuckled to himself, looking around the room* " Ah, I didn't mean it..... now I am just glad there is no chance of being stuck with that gods awful task of summoning..... if it is what you and Calm Foam said it was, then I want no part of it"

*Dal cleared his throat loudly, giving Wave a hard stern stare..* "Nobody said you were off the hook Wave..."

*He continued to stare at wave in that same same ominous, soul piercing way, dragging it out just long enough to let the terrible reality set in on Wave, and after that, he stared some more, to the point that most anyone would have thought he was fully serious about making Wave hold up his end of the bargain. His hard expression cracked into a big shit eating grin directed at Wave, which had the odd effect of having two possible meanings, either that he was completely joking, or that he was amused at the doubt Wave had. He figured he would let Wave sweat a bit longer.*

If you'd prefer to do it your way, have fun *Arachnia sat back in her chair against Ress and waited to see if anyone would decide to hear what she had said earlier*

Wow, you guys are just masochists, though in your vote I say sadist *he winked at the Zenith, and shook his head* If you want a decision made I will take charge and delegate the task to the sorceress who offered to summon the demon from the deep for us. That way its done right and your fucked up solution, and I mean that in many ways, doesn't fail or summon the wrong guy *Mabija grinned at the group and put his hands on his knees for finality*

* Wave just waved Dal off, then chuckled as he turned to arachnia* " You can summon second circle demons?... wow, that is quite a feat. I know I would appreciate it if you would.........?" * Wave stopped in his tracks, then looked over to Ress, who had been strangely silent for a good long time* " So.... what did happen after you exalted in front of those people?"

*Dal laughed heartily, reaching over and slapping Wave on the back.* " Relax! I would never really ask you to do something like that." *He turned to Arachnia, half bowing to her as he pleaded, and half laughing.* "Please Empress, save us with your expertise!" *He leaned back in his chair, grinning at her.* " You have no idea how glad I am to hear that you can handle it in a better way."

*Lirimana looked up from her brushing and laughed* No, you didn't ask, if I remember you ordered him to!

*in a rare display of joining in their playing, Arachnia sat up straight and proper and bowed back, her lips pursed in what she imagined a stuffy Empress might use as an expression* Yes, Admiral, I will do so at a convenient time, now run along, I have others to attend to *she waved her hand to dismiss him, as though she had more important things to do than something as trivial as demon summoning. Sitting back in her seat she lounged and smirked, basking a little in the praise. It hadn't been easy to learn that, and she was enjoying the flattery* Actually, I can, though we should probably wait for a more convenient time and place than this airship. No fermenting follies here!

*Dal gave a steep bow, his head nearly hitting the floor in an equally dramatic and satirical jest to the empress' joke. He was tempted to slink away like some wretched thing, but his attention was drawn away to the Emperor Ress, and what Wave had brought up.*

" I vote for not having to tell..." * Ress' expression did not change as he answered, then gave a shrug as he looked around, waiting for a vote to cast*

* Wave knew all too well what a bureaucratic escape looked like and was not going to let him enact one* " Well I vote that you do!"

*Lirimana's face frowned as she thought about it, It wouldn't be nice to make Ress say something he didn't want to, and she wasn't dense enough not to notice when someone wasn't really into saying something* We shouldn't force him into something he doesn't want to do...

*Arachnia was pretty much always taking Ress's side, so of course she gave the others a wiggle to get closer to Ress* I vote he doesn't have to

*Dal battled internally, he almost wanted to let Ress have his privacy, but in light of the situation, everyone else had told something about themselves that they didn't want to say in the first place.*

"I am Sorry Emperor, but we have all shared the dark sides of our past with you, I vote that you must tell."

I'm afraid I have to agree with Dal'Lumen, Emperor Ress. It's only fair that you delve a little deeper into your tale... *Jakisi nodded at Ress, unable to turn away from her nature*

*Mabija smiled at the others* It's mean, but you made the rules, mister Ress. I vote you tell

" I am afraid everyone is correct, Emperor. You made those rules yourself, and you should be held accountable to them as well.. I vote yes" * Tari nodded, sounding almost monk-like as she gave her mini lecture*

" Yeah.. you have nothing to hide, Northerner. I am sure you didn't sleep with Lover Clad in Raiments of Tears or anything... did you?.... oh! and I vote yes" * Kahn shifted a bit, her eyes still closed, relaxing as her hair was brushed*

" Rules are for everyone to follow, Emperor. Rules are good for you and good for everyone.. thats what my dad tells me" * Reed nodded, cutting a piece of bread with his knife*

* Ress sighed, hanging his head low a moment. then stood up quickly, sending his hair tossing in all directions, but quickly falling back into place. He then spoke, and as he did, a trail of slowly thickening golden smoke trailed up his right leg, until it reached his waist, then kept right on until going over his head* " Well then.. I guess there is no avoiding it then, is there?.. well, of course.. there I was in the north...."

[Arachnia of the Hour]

* A bright flash of light erupted though the room, cascading outward into a flat disk that penetrated harmlessly through anything it touched. It then grew into a three dimensional image of the city he was in, negotiating the pleas of the farmers. The image then zoomed in on the very building they were at, the ceiling popping off the top, allowing the image to change from top view, to 'in the scene'. The faces of the other chair holders were undefined, simple baubles of people as to hold the place of the real people that had been in the situation.*

" As we spoke, the sun was lowering in the sky... and the moment the sun touched the mountains...." * Ress leaped out from behind his golden cloud cover, standing three feet from the dispersed golden cloud, only to have the thing solidify into the image of a long haired man with a large wicked looking sword at his hip, wearing pants which shone in the dim light like metal. Ress looked at the image, smiling slightly as he did*

" A demon appeared before me.. he bowed to me and greeted me as a 'prince of the earth'." * The image of the demon bowed low to Ress, just as he narrated.*

" The demon told me that he had the power to give me anything that I wanted... all I needed to do was ask of it... but in return, I was suppose to give him my soul..... and so I told him ' I want my own Empire!' * The image laughed, then snapped his fingers, instantly transporting the scene to just in front of the imperial manse of Imperveress*

" I was amazed and frightened by this display of power from the demon before me... but I now had an idea..." * Ress looked away from the demon and to the other passengers on the ship, giving them a wink. he then looked back and spoke to the specter.*

" 'I want weaponry, fit to protect this empire!' I told the demon, and he graciously obliged" * The demon held out what looked like a pair of bracers and a familiar looking bow, then turned around, activating something within the imperial manse that caused the top to slide off, and a huge cannon to come out of it. it spun around 180 degrees, then back. The scene changed again as the two of them were now standing at the top of the manse. The demon motioned to all the land he now owned, and the manses upon it. He then popped down a good many hundreds of feet from the manse looking up to Ress*

" I then told him that I wanted the secrets of the empire for my own... but exasperated, the demon told me that he has been patient for his short stay with me in creation, and that I should give him his due... after all, fair is fair..." * The demon could be seen at even the great distance. he looked angry and waved his arms around as he spoke. Ress turned around and gave a smile and a nod to the group*

" 'Well then... I am just going to have to find them out on my own then, wont I?... next time, shake on it!" * Ress made his hand into a fist, then extended his index finger and thumb like a gun, of which he pointed down at the demon, the huge manse weapon following his actions. He the pulled his hand back, causing the gun next to him to fire a huge golden bolt, which slammed into the demon below, creating a giant crater in the ground and no more demon*

" And that...." * The golden scene Ress was creating fizzled out into nothing as reality returned once more, he then finished with a bow*

" Is how I outsmarted the Demon and found myself the emperor of our fine empire!"

* Tari slowly began to clap once the performance was over., slowly growing into a one person crescendo*

*Arachnia watched the scene with a gently-curving smirk on her face. She knew some of this story, though still very little when compared to the story she was given this time. The image of the demon made her sigh inside and she set in her mind new ways to keep them protected*

*Jakisi's eyes widened as she watched the golden movie, but she kept silent, not sure if she should say anything about who the demon was... Though she had to admit she was fairly impressed that a Solar so young had managed something like that*

Wow... erm... You were pretty crafty to fool a demon.. like that... *Lirimana bit her lip and gave Ress a funny look before exchanging a glance with the only other woman she knew for sure would have seen what she saw... Arachnia. Though she noticed the recognition in Jakisi's eyes and couldn't help but wonder about the kids in their empire. She hadn't met all of the strange ones, but she'd started hearing stories.... Well, they were the future, right? Better to be a strange but highly educated one than a normal and foolish start*

*Dal's finger shot up and he waved it at the general direction of Ress and the scene he had just produced.*

"Hey! You can do that light thing too!"

*He grinned brightly at Ress, at the same time realizing that nobody else seemed to care all that much about the means by which he told the story as the story itself.*

"Hey well, that's where that hole came from, I saw that during the investigation before your trial, I just thought it was an ancient scar on the land from the War... But I do remember thinking it looked too fresh to be so old."

*Out of nowhere there was a flash of light and a cloud, which was not his usual style, but a sort of nod at Ress' own technique. From the cloud erupted a large flailing squid, which was then hurled in the direction of Roaring Wave, with a pass of Dal's hand. He didn't look to see what Waves reaction would be but simply looked around the room with a casual smile as if he had done nothing at all.*

* Wave was not at all expecting Dal to create a squid.. nor did he expect to see a squid at all. Without thinking, Wave's hand shot out and a jet of water blasted out of it, dousing the zenith in highly pressured water, filling his lungs mystically and causing him to cough it up uncontrollably (for about 5 ticks )* " Jeez... don't scare me like that.. I'm sorry.... you should really be more careful Dal! " * Though he was genuinely sorry.. he did feel some vindication for being startled like that*

*The smiling face of Dal quickly vanished into the torrent of water, and when it subsided he blinked a few times, before rolling out of his seat gagging and spluttering as he ran for the nearest basin. To Wave's apology he just waved his hand behind his back as if to say it was no big deal, while his face was hidden inside the place he had hurriedly decided would be good enough to gag.*

" Why yes I...!" * Ress stopped a moment as the giant squid appeared, then as wave tried attacking it and hit Dal. Ress rushed over to Dal's side and began thumping him on the back, trying to help him expel the water out*

" Well then.... perhaps pranks on an Exalted scale would invariably result in Exalted level retaliation, would you not say?... but yes, I find sometimes a story requires visuals.. that is where that useful charm comes into play. Plus... I will admit, it is fun!"

" Outsmarted a demon?... I am impressed, Ress... but not surprised. If it were me, I would have sent him back to Malfeas with my own two hands!... but that is why I am a full moon tiger... and you are a rather frail looking Solar... no offense meant of course.. I am simply making an observation!" * she stretched languidly, then yawned, the stripes in her hair losing their glow*

* Bright clapped along with Tari, nodding in approval at the story that was told* " it sounds like you are not just some city dweller...We respect the mettle it takes to outsmart such a foe and take his spoils for your own!"

* Glass nodded in agreement, clapping as well* " Yes, I wish we could have done that to the cult of Sondok. But perhaps for another time.... until then, I will try to remember not all things need be accomplished with a knife in the back"

* Ress gave Dal's back one last pat before yawning, then standing back up to stretch. he shook his head once, sending his hair in all directions.. but unlike being bashful, his hair fell right back into place* " We should probably be getting to bed... all this drinking and emotional ups and downs will take it out of us.... we should lay low from here on in... I get the feeling when we land, we will need our strength.... I will be seeing you all when the sun returns. Have a great sleep!" * Ress waved to the crew, then gave a bow*

*Dal groaned a bit, standing back upright.*

"That sound's fair, sleep well Emperor. I think I will take a look around this ship before I call it a night." *He coughed slightly, his lounges still irritated by excess water.*

*Dal Staggered back over to his chair and gripped the back of it, not wanting to sit back down if he decided he was going to wonder off soon.*

"I hope there is someplace on this ship that sit's outside, and I think if there is I will find it!"

*Lirimana smiled and nodded at the others, finishing up brushing Kahn's hair and setting the brush down* There you go, all soft and silky smooth *wobbling up into a standing position, she waved and started staggering off to the back rooms to find herself a place to sleep* Night guys

*as the others started to rise, so did Arachnia and she went over to Tari and waited for her to be ready. She smiled at the Dragon-Blooded husband, not at all caring what he thought of the exchange * When you're ready I'll take you to what I promised earlier

* Tari nodded, smiling wider up at the empress as she got to her feet* " I am ready now if that is okay with you!" * She seemed slightly giddy as she stood there*

* Wave sat there puzzled as to what the empress and his wife had planned between each other. he shrugged, then got to his feet, waving to the group as he made his way to his quarters* " Goodnight everyone.... keep your tips up and your skills sharp... and if you have hidden powers!... don't be afraid to use them!"

Of course, Tari, come come. It's this way.. *she took Tari down the hall and paused at the edge of the room to nod a good night to the others* Good evening, enjoy your rest

*Mabija looked wistfully at Bright but looked to Jakisi and Reed instead, using them to keep his mind off others things...* Well, should I take you to the same room or are you too old for that sort of thing?

* Reed jumped up and down hooting and cheering as Mabija asked them about bed* " Yay!!! We get to sleep on the ship!!" " Sure! I'll share a room with Jakisi! It could be like when mommy was stationed in Northern Halta in a giant folded over leaf with ten other soldiers!!" * this child was far too excited about something as mundane as sleeping*

*this kid was a riot.. the Fire Aspect laughed and he shrugged* Sure, I'll get you two all settled in. Let's go pick out the perfect room for you! *Mabija gently set his hands behind the two kids, herding them towards the sleeping quarters*

I don't mind, as long as there is a place for me to change privately.... *Jakisi blushed at her admittance, still young enough to not think anything of sleeping with a close friend in the same bed, but enough of a young woman to care about being seen naked*

* Kahn got to her feet, shook herself out, gave a good long stretch, then heaved a sigh, following Wave down the hall to where the sleeping quarters were* " This has been a productive day.. unfortunately, not a reproductive day... but tomorrow is a new one... goodnight everyone! may the moon watch over you as you dream!"

Of course, of course. That would be unseemly for a young woman such as yourself *Mabija turned to the remaining group and gave them a slight wave* Night all, see you again soon *ushering the young ones forward, he took them down the hall to find just the right room*

"See you next when the sun smiles down on creation."

*Sleep for Dal was usually something that only happened when there was nothing else worth doing, as just as often he was unable to sleep at all while being tormented by his nightmares. He grinned and waved at the group, walking in the opposite direction of the others, searching for any sort of stern, and where likely there would be the outdoor portion of the ship where he could watch the stars and meditate in the cool night wind. A few corridors later he found it, and settled in for a what might be a hand full of hours meditating in solitude before bed.*



* A few short downtime days later and many hundreds of miles beyond, the ship had traversed the distance needed and had arrived at the valley in question. it was easy to see why an airship was needed for such a remote valley. there was miles of thick jungle all around the valley and the valley walls were about seven miles high. First glance, no entrance could be seen, but first glances are many times deceiving. One particular mountain around the valley stood tall above the others. smoke rose from its summit, making it very clear that this was in fact the volcano in question. Inside the valley was large lush open land and many old buildings, almost perfectly preserved from the first age, complete with imperishable first age vehicles parked next to them*

"WOOHOOO!!!" * Wave pumped his fist in the air as he sat ready at his place in the control room. He then pointed in front of them at the valley below* " There it is you guys! That's what we have been looking for!! Now it is time to save a lost civilization!!!....... but wait... I don't see anyone down there... you think they are hiding?"

It's possible, though they could be living in the trees or underground, some civilizations are in that style even now. As we know, Halta is entirely in the treetops *Lirimana peered through her windshield as she navigated the skyship down, trying to make it the most perfect and accessible location for what they want, though it was hard when you didn't know where the people were so you could avoid them*

We should disembark and look for the people personally. Who knows if they've seen a skyship like this, it can be intimidating *the Empress stood behind Lirimana and watched the area below, scanning for any movement out of the ordinary, or anything that would signify curious beings*

" That is our destination indeed, Wave... lets take this ship down, maybe we can take some of those vehicles while we are at it!.. I suppose it couldn't hurt. We are within plenty of time... the volcano wont erupt for a few more days now" * Ress began to lower the ship, sounding quite content to have a mission that was not life threatening for once*

*While he worked with the crew, steering the ship down to their intended landing point. He stared out warily at the Volcano in the distance, he wondered if this was anything like the mountain that one road had shown him several weeks before. In that vision, there was a terrible monster, and not one but two civilizations running away from disaster. He couldn't help but think that he would have to go up to the mountain and see if he couldn't sort out if anyone was living inside or on top of it, and he would likely have to go up there in any case to speak to the god of the mountain.*

"And there is our volcano, the reason we came as quickly as we did..." *His voice trailed off as he tried to concentrate on doing his job in helping to land the ship.*

* The Ship touched down at the base of a huge glass building, a stark contrast from the stone buildings all around it. The ship powered down and all the hatches opened allowing the crew to exit*

* Reed hopped out of the ship, leaping up and down in his acrobatic excited way. at his hip was the knife that Dal had given him... but around his neck, was a purple scarf.. a strangely familiar purple scarf* " YAY!! We are here! Don't worry people here! We are here to save you all! You have Exalts, a future Exalt, a Patrician martial artist and the child of one of the strongest Deities ever! You are in the best of hands!"

* Kahn followed not far behind, laughing at the exuberant little haltan child, taking a moment to scratch the top of her head* " You really are a hero, aren't you, Reed?... keep this up, Luna will choose you in no time. now then... where are these people?" * Kahn looked around, seeing lots of buildings and some strange huge yellow crystals... but no people*

*Dal emerged from the ship, squinting into the bright outside light. He caught glimpse of the bouncing figure of reed as he flicked about the landing zone. With a moments pause as he took in the sight of it all, and when he'd had enough he strolled down the docking ramp, once again squinting up at the volcano when he reached the ground.*

"Not much of a greeting party, I'm not sure anyone is here to hear you Reed!" *he called after the boy. His hand reached up to the handle of his Axe Law, he gave it a good squeeze, the jittering sound of callused flesh on leather quietly demonstrated that he had given it a twist to settle his hand firmly on the Axe*

"Stay close, we don't understand the situation just yet."

*as the group emerged, Arachnia looked around, her piercing gaze focusing on the yellow crystals that littered the area. Something was funny about them and she made her way with interest towards them, skirting around Dal'Lumen to peer closely at one. When she was done she went to another crystal, then another before looking over at the group* There is a reason why no one came out to greet us... Unless these are enemies, our doomed people are in here

* Reed stopped jumping and looked back up at Kahn,shrugging at her, then giving her a nod* " Well, I recognize that Luna is a great god, and creation couldn't function without her, and she is without a doubt one of the most important gods there is... but I am holding out for The Unconquered Sun! I have heard many stories about Solars and I think I could do a lot of good as one!" *Reed patted Kahn's hand softly, then returned to pouncing* " Besides, I don't want to have to compete with full moons like you, I know your stories as well as those of the solars, and if there is anything I find scarier than a rampaging Solar anathema, its a wild rabid Lunar anathema!"

Reed! *Jakisi appeared suddenly behind him and she rapped him on the head with a closed fan, hard enough for the others to hear it* The Solars and Lunars are not anathema, so please don't insult them that way. If you don't know what a word means, don't use it until you do. Now, let's see what the Empress found *the fan disappeared within the little girl's robes and she went over to the nearest crystal*

* Kahn laughed again, kneeling down and placing a kiss where Jakisi had hit, before hugging the small haltan boy* " You are right, all Incarne gods are very important... any you are also right for being afraid of angry full moon Lunars... but don't be afraid of me,Reed. I would never hurt you." * She stood back up and walked to a crystal, poking it softlywith her index finger.* " I don't know..are we suppose to carry these into the ship?"

*Mabija followed the kids out, shaking his head at their antics. He wondered if his would be anything like this... Upon hearing that Arachnia had found something he stuck his head in to make sure Lirimana was coming, too, before following Jakisi to take a look*

* Ress stepped out of the airship, surveying the land for what was around them. A few buildings, those crystals they were looking at... a platform of basalt with crystals grown into them* " humm... this is strange indeed... could it be that this civilization was thriving at one time and has since fallen dormant into these pods?...."

*Lirimana was the last one out, being the main pilot she was the last to leave her seat. When she heard Arachnia had found something she wiggled, almost running into Mabija when he looked back in to check on her. She wanted in on the find and wanted to help identify whatever the people were in* Wait for me!

"Ow...im sorry.. I thought that was another word for Exalt" * Reed rubbed the top of his head a little, then hopped over to the crystals* " Wow.... there is someone in this..." * he jumped on top of one, looking down into it* " I think this one is a great warrior! he is wearing armor!!...." * he then jumped on top of another, looking down into it* " This one is a dancer I think.. she is wearing feathers and has dyed her hair"

*Taking a lunge forward Dal grabbed reed by the scruff of his shirt like a person would a small animal, and lifted him quickly, but smoothly off the crystal, he looked down at Reed after he let go of his shirt and gave him a pat on the back, smoothing out the wrinkles he had caused.* "Let's not climb on the crystal people Reed..." *He glanced over at Arachnia and the now arriving Lirimana.*

"So how do we get them out... Shall I see if I can't break these crystals open like a coconut?"

*He put his free hand on the other handle and pulled both his Axes out, hefting them as if ready to swing it at the word go.*

*Lirimana looked around as she emerged, excitedly taking it all in so she could be caught up with what the others were seeing. As Reed was plucked off the crystals she chuckled at the monkey-child and shook her head* No, to break them open could possibly endanger the lives of those people inside. So... *she looked inside the crystals and glanced at Arachnia, as though she was the one responsible for this information* Why didn't anyone tell me these were Dragon Kings? These crystals are a form of hibernation chamber, and seem to be doing a pretty good job, though they're fairly vulnerable...

[Arachnia of the Hour]

Where did you get such information, Miss Liri? I've never even heard of a Dragon King before... *Jakisi took her turn looking at the hazy shape in the crystal nearest her*

*the Twilight started at the question and she looked somewhat embarrassed to answer* Well... I couldn't help but spend some time in the Great Library of Great Forks while I was there. There's so many amazing pieces of information there... I just wish there was more time for me to spend in there, and the right resources of course so I could procure that time *Lirimana's expression turned dreamy as she thought about how many lost books must be in there*

* Reed, not phased by being picked up, began looking around at the crystals, though this time, not leaping on top of them* " Wow! There are a lot of them!... how are we going to move them? these crystals are growing out of the ground!" * Reed tapped the base of a crystal with his finger, noting that there was no easy way to move these sleeping lizard creatures* " Wow... they are almost like human....."

* ress walked over to a crystal, knelt down and wrapped his arms part way around it. he took a deep breath and then lifted as hard as he could, grunting softly as he strained to make the thing budge, but unfortunately was unable to move it so much as an inch. Ress dropped to his knees, panting to regain his breath. he pushed his hair out of his face then looked upwards at everyone, smiling sheepishly* " Nope... can't move it! looks like we will either have to work together, or find another way.... any other ideas?" *

* Wave shook his head, then put hos palm over his face, pulling it away slowly. he heaved a sigh as he watched the scene before him* " If only we had the foresight to bring our warstriders along with us... this could have been like berry picking"

"Well there may be an easier way... But let's see if we can't pull it up between the two of us Emperor..." *Dal's eyes widened, he gritted his teeth and slammed his fists together, looking like a body builder flexing every muscle in his body, his muscles throbbed, growing significantly larger than they should be, before slowly condensing and returning back to their normal size. The veins in his body seemed to remain swelled however, a slight glow emanating from the surface of his skin. He looked at Roaring Wave annoyed.* "Hey... I suggested we bring our warstriders right off the bat when I suggested we take a ship down the River!" *His voice was somewhat harsher and more gravelly than usual in his hulk form. He walked over to the crystal that Ress had worked on previously and nodded to him, ready to lift with everything he was worth.*

* Ress nodded as he stretched a moment, then got back down into the position he was in before. He took a few deep breaths to prepare himself for another strain, then nodded to Dal* " tell me when... we will go at the same time" *Ress held down tight on the crystal, hoping the combined might of this souped up Dal and himself*

*Dal squatted down and growled the magic words at Ress.* "When!"

* When Ress heard the word, he immediately began lifting, making the same strained grunting noise he had before. his face turned a little red as he lifted, grinning slightly when he heard the crystal make a soft cracking noise and gave slightly* " Looks like it is working!.. its not exactly time effective, but it works!!"

* Kahn rolled her eyes as she watched the two make progress on the crystal, then walked over to one herself, leaning against it as she watched* " typical... never send a Solar to do a Lunar's job"

" You know... that kinda looks fun!, Tari! how about you and Reed come with me and we work on one as well!" * Wave ran off to the nearest crystal, then kicked it a few times to see how strong it was* " Wow... these things are tough...l its almost like Jade"

* Tari followed Wave, watching him kick the crystal, then winced slightly at the mention of it being as strong as jade* " Are you sure you are not over reacting?... Jade is pretty tough"

* Reed pulled off the scarf from around his neck and leaped over the crystal, letting the purple cloth rest around the top as the haltan child held either end* " Here.. you two break the bottom, and I will pull it from up here... that should put on the pressure and snap the bottom. From there, we can take it away easily!"

* Wave looked at the child, then at the crystal, then at the cloth. he shrugged, figuring he should humor the kid, since he was young and couldn't know that his purple scarf would rip under the strain of pulling. As mentioned, he began low kicking the crystal at its base, trying to crack the crystal like the surf cracks the mountains... prolonged consistent attacks from an unrelenting source.. it was like being back in the house of bells* " Who knows. it could work!"

* Like Wave, tari began low kicking the base of the crystal, showing off the difference between a kick done correctly, like she was, and improperly, like wave.* " Maybe it could if your follow through was better, you fully extended your leg, and if you would hit with the top of your foot rather than your shin... unless that is the place you have been getting your striking training in on.... or does your strike training consist of me kicking you in the shins?... because if so, keep going!"

* Sand stood watching the two Solar's struggling with the crystal, trying not to laugh at them. * " Perhaps we should search for a lifter of some sort rather then resorting to pure strength."

*Arachnia looked over to Jakisi and gestured to an open area before beginning the summoning process for Erymanthoi. In only a few seconds a huge blood-red ape appeared, taut muscles rippling as she got it to work on the next crystal before summoning another one. Once the second demon appeared and got to work helping the first. Now glowing silver, Moonsilver tattoos blazing, the No Moon's shape started to shift and grow, becoming the black-carapaced warform. Starting on the next one she crouched down and started the grand hug to lift one up and out. It was getting the better of her, though, and she stood back to take a look at the crystal, trying to find a way to work it out better*

*Dal hoisted the Crystal out of it's place with Ress, and set it down beside the point it had broken from, looking around at the rest of the group who had started crystal harvesting. Now with the addition of several hideous ape demons surrounding him, he felt a little better about how much work this was going to be, in spite of where the workforce had come from.*

"You know... this would be a lot easier if we could figure out how or why these creatures are in these crystals, it might help us get them out... If we could get them out, then these people can just walk into our ship..."

*At the mention of the ship, a light went on in Dal's head, he spun around to look at the huge flying behemoth behind them... it seemed so obvious!*

"Do we have any rope or cable long enough to attach to the ship, we could use it to tug out large numbers of these things at once! What about... your web's Arachnia?"

*Arachnia looked up from her pondering for a moment and turned her eight black eyes on the Zenith* Yes, I suppose it might. We won't know until we try, however *with a quick glancing sweep she looked out over the number of crystals* We should try it on a number first, to make sure it actually works...

*Jakisi gestured to her open space and called out, summoning an identical creature to what Arachnia was summoning a moment ago* Erymanthoi! *after a moment the giant ape-beast appeared and she repeated the gesture, summoning a new one every six or seven seconds, flooding the area with the blood-apes who went to work where she directed*

*Lirimana looked around, wondering where she could be useful... Strength was not really her strong-point and she was about to ask Arachnia if she needed help when Dal spoke up. She did a quick count... that actually took more than a moment before looking to Dal* There are a few hundred, give or take ten I'd say around five hundred. Again, give or take some..

* With a single kick, Kahn broke the base of the crystal that she leaned against, then hoisted it up over her shoulder, carrying it like a beer keg, except with no sign of strain* " Its not as difficult as all that.. not if you are built for the job by Luna herself! Now then, something about using web?... I cant make web, but our Elder Empress is definitely well equipped for the job!"

* The combined assault of the two martial artists slowly wore down on the crystal, leaving deep cracks that eventually ran all the way through the offending crystal* " Ha! Here it goes!! a few more whacks!"

* Reed gave a tug on the cloth wrapped around the crystal, letting out a loud sound of glass shattering through the valley as the crystal fell. He let go of the scarf and leaped forward, catching it in his foot and landing on his hands, holding the tilting crystal all up like* " Hey! We did it!"

*Mabija took Lirimana by the hand and had her help him with the next crystal. He whipped out the two flaming scimitars and began hacking away at the bottom of the crystal, the swords each one their own sides opposite to each other so the could set it off-balance faster* You catch Lirimana, then we'll take it back together

* Off in the distance, one could see a mass blur over the side of the valley and then inside. it continued to move swiftly through the valley, until it reached the jungle and could no longer be seen* ( Perception+awareness diff: 5)*

*Arachnia jumped onto the nearest crystal and wrapped webbing around it securely from her abdomen before jumping from the crystal to the ship, a string of the super-strong silk trailing behind her. As she fastened the other end to the ship she turned to leap to the next crystal. In the crouching position she halted and stayed still as she took in the blur* Hey, there's a large group of horsemen coming towards us. Did anyone catch anything? Ress, did you get local help?

* Ress looked off in the distance, puzzling over what it was he was seeing. He tensed up a little as whatever it was got closer* " No, I didn't enlist any help... Especially not from a group called 'The Bronze Tigers'.. I can see the name on their banner.... They might be scavengers, and if so, they might see that we already have a claim staked here. Lets hope they will not need any sort of 'coaxing' to leave" * Ress turned his gaze away from the horsemen to pick up the Dragon in crystal that he and Dal had just broke off and carried it off to the airship*

*Jakisi continued her summoning, now hitting the 20th erymanthoi and she took a moment to stop and look off in the distance at what the Empress had seen, but got nothing. She debated stopping and summoning something else, but felt that if they had a fight on their hands this army of blood-apes would deter them, or at least even the odds. So back to work she went, calling out for more demons, glad that these were a plentiful type*

*Dal laughed at Khan's taunting. He shrugged and pointed at what Arachnia had begun doing.*

"Yeah, well then just leave it to a solar to figure out a better way... Besides, now everyone's just hitting the crystals, again... I offered to do that in the beginning."

*He grinned, knowing full well that these shared taunts would go nowhere good fast. For each crystal that Arachnia tied up to the ship, he walked over and gave it a hearty hack from one of his Axes, quickly moving through the crystal groups attempting to loosen or shatter the base of each crystal to make the breaking point more precise when the ship gave it's part. He heard Arachnia mention something about horsemen over the sound of his crystal shattering blows.*

"What Horsemen?"

* Sand, having spotted the approaching horsemen and being of no help with the crystals made a short dash to get among the cover of the building on the not so off chance of them being hostile. *

*the Empress started back to leaping from untouched crystal to ship, fastening segments of her webbing to the crystals and anchoring them to the ship. She kept an eye out for any approaching horsemen. stopping for a moment next to Dal* The horsemen that were in the distance.. They're not anyone from the North but I've heard of them vaguely before.. They're a mercenary group from the Scavenger Lands, though I don't know much else. Maybe Lirimana? She's from around here... *once she had finished her speech she started jumping back and forth again*

* Wave carried the crystal between him and Tari, moving the load over to the airship's cargo space along with the other saved dragon kings* " Horsemen huh?... I am not afraid of horses myself...."

*Lirimana looked over from watching the crystal get slowly toppled over* Yeah, the Bronze Tigers are a mercenary group from the Confederation of Rivers. There's a Solar and a Dragon Blooded that work together in it. The Solar owns the group of course, and the Dragon Blooded is his second in command. I don't know what he is, but whichever Caste, he's supposed to be a great fighter

" Its never the horses you should be afraid of, Dragon, its those who ride them. As a matter of fact, back in our home town, the best warriors we knew were horse riders" * Bright nodded as he stood back , watching the breaking of crystal, along with the hauling. He grabbed the swords at his hips and began helping Mabija hack away at the crystal* " There... now we should be done in less time... this may take some time!"

* The mass of horsemen soon barreled out through the jungle and into the clearing. slowing down as they got closer, a golden glow surrounding the other 100 horsemen. The two in front, a bald man wearing a green shirt under a large set of lamellar armor, complete with large shoulder pads. on the back of this commanding man was a large orichalcum reaver daiklaive with a sunburst pattern on either side of the blade. The other who dismounted was a redheaded woman wearing a reinforced breastplate, a jade spear ready in her hand*

* The man bowed to the group, one hand on the side of his horse, ready to hop back on should his question be left unanswered. He then spoke* " Excuse me, but is there a man by the name of Ashen Wind here? Perhaps you have met such a person in your travels?"

*Dals eyes darted from side to side when he heard his name, he turned around to see the group that had arrived. He didn't like strangers knowing this name... the only people that would know him by that name would be people from his past.*

"Hell of a place to come looking for anyone stranger, what makes you think that this person would be here?"

*Lirimana made the mistake of looking over at the new arrivals and her eyes got a bit wider. She looked from the man to the woman, but ended up fixating on the woman, her mouth slightly open but no words coming out* ...

" Why?! I was tipped off that he would be out here. Why do you ask?... and it looks like you all have a lot of work ahead of you.... I'll tell you what.. I will give you the use of myself and all my men for the low price of three bars of silver. I would normally charge triple that, but as I can see, you are Exalts, and Exalts with deep pockets, I would like to extend a deal, so in the future you might consider The Bronze Tigers when you need Mercenary work" * the man did not seem phased at all with the mish mash of solars, dragon-blooded, lunars, children and demons*

* the spear wielding woman lowered her weapon, setting its tip to the ground as her commander spoke business with the strange group... What were all these things?.. and why were they working together. It was things like this that really perplexed the obviously wood aspected terrestrial woman* " Commander?"

*the spider-woman halted next to Ress, anyone who knew body-language would recognize a protective stance when they saw one, and here one was. All eight of her eyes drifted through the group, knowing who the real threats were, but not wanting to lose sight of the larger number*

*Dal beamed at the man. Armed Mercenaries willing to do just about anything for money asking about him seemed far from something Dal wished to get involved with should he not need to.*

"Well my friend... Nobody here goes by that name..." *He shrugged and continued on hacking away at crystals.*

* Ress looked over the group of mercenaries, seeing that they did not have violent intent, and figured he would address them* " Hello Bronze Tigers! I am Emperor Ress, ruler of the empire of Imperveress. This is my wife, Empress Arachnia" * he motioned to the huge spider beastman who loomed over him* " And these are my followers. We are here on an urgent mission to protect and preserve these beings here. We plan to take them all back to the empire. You say an 'Ashen Wind' person? I am afraid there is nobody here who answers to that name, but should we find such a person, I will do what I can to alert you to this. As for your offer, it is a generous one, but we have all the help we need right now for the task at hand... but your offer has not fallen on deaf ears. Should I ever require your services, I will be sure to look your task force up and extend to you employment."

*Lirimana took a step forward toward the redhead, closing her mouth and biting her lip. She had to do something to keep the attention off the obviously-guilty Dal. He was putting his foot in his mouth so the only way she could think to get him out of trouble was to put her foot in hers* You're gorgeous.......

" Emperor Ress?.... I know of you. I have seen your image in the sky. Very well, Emperor, if you do not require any help. My name is Dace, and this is my Lieutenant Risa. we stay stationed in Nexus and are easy to find, should you care to look... " * he turned to motion for Risa to calm herself.. they were conducting future business*

* Risa dropped her spear when she heard Lirimana, her cheeks tinged a little pink from the comment. her hands came up to her cheeks to cover her bashfulness* " I... Well thank you"

*Lirimana pulled out her Third-Arm Glaive and bent down to retrieve Risa's spear, handing it to her, her dark skin betraying her own flushed face* It looks like we, uh, have something in common.... Here.. you dropped this...

* Dace laughed a little at Risa's response, then shook his head and returned his gaze to the hodge podge group. He reached back into his pocket and retrieved a piece of paper, of which he opened, revealing a wanted poster with Dal's face on it and the name 'Ashen Wind' at the top and in bold riverspeak letters at the bottom, the words ' Ten Talents of Silver for the capture. Alive!'* " If you should ever see this man, send word of it to me, I will extend to you a finders fee "* He looked from the poster, to Dal, then back. With a little irritation, he folded up the poster and put it away. chuckling softly to himself* " So Ashen Wind... you hide right under my nose? You almost played me for a fool. It is no secret, I am here for the bounty on your head. I have been offered fifteen talents of silver for your capture by the Guild. Now then.. are you going to come with me?... I don't expect you to, but its only sporting to extend the offer"

*Mabija laughed to himself, making sure to keep his flaming scimitars from burning anyone or anything unnecessarily. It would figure that Dal would be the one to get them in trouble. He gestured to Wave* Are you sure you don't want this guy? His wife's better at everything so we could spare him

*Dal had to think quickly about what he would do next, one last ditch effort to fool this man, he still had his back turned on him in any case... AHA he thought... before turning back around he secretly activated the hearth stone of masks that he had recovered a few short weeks before. There was only one person he could think of that would have a face close enough that it could be easily mistaken for the one on the poster, his fathers face. He turned around to Dace, a distinct facial similarity due to the family resemblance, but at the same time very obviously different.*

"Hmm.. I suppose I do somewhat look like this fellow... but look... he has a scar on his cheek, and another on his forehead... his chin is shorter... and my eyes are Green! Not Gray.."

"....!" * Dace looked surprised, then reached back into his pocket, retrieving the poster and looked between the two, seeing all the differences and understanding the confusion. he nodded, putting the picture back into his pocket, then put his hands on his hips, shaking his head sheepishly* " Wow.. I'm sorry... an honest mistake. I hope to do business with you all in the future" * he turned around and started getting on his horse*

* Risa grabbed Dace's back and pulling him back over, her eyes narrowing as she pointed her spear at Dal, then spoke up in an angry, commanding voice* " Don't listen to him! I can see through his disguise! He is using some sort of sorcery! Plus, he didn't even look at the picture, he had his back to it! and even if he did see it, this picture is a drawing, done in black ink!!!"

* Dace whipped back around, retrieving his reaver Daiklaive as he did, holding it out before him. he looked angry as he stood there, undoubtedly because he was almost duped* " I have to commend you... you really are as slippery as they said you would be.... infiltrated the Guild... made off with a fortune in slaves.. escaped to Imperveress, an empire behind impenetrable walls.. and now you change your very face in an attempt to save yourself.... but you have to understand, I have no love for slavery, but honor doesn't fill my belly nor shoe my horse... this is not personal, Ashen Wind... Its just business

*Dal laughed* "Oh well It seems your... assistant must be mistaken, I glanced up at the poster when you brought it out... So I did in fact see it. But you must forgive me, I thought it must have some color to it at a glance... If you were looking for someone with a bounty like that I would have figured they would have spared a little more expense to make it more accurate..." *He grinned at Risa, there was a bizarrely ominous feeling she would get from it, he hoped it would convince her that she was wrong, or that he was not worth the 15 talents to bring in.*

* A loud rumbling sound could be heard coming from the volcano, followed by a shaking of the ground, starting slight, but quickly growing into a rattling torrent of rock and crystal in all directions, making it hard to stand for the time it ran on.. but as quick as it came, it left.*

*Jakisi let out a little peep as she fell flat on her behind, feathery hair fluffing as she collided with the ground* eep! *she rose to her feet and dusted herself off, making sure her demons were still working despite her fall. This was a nice break at least, calling demons could get tiring after awhile*

*Arachnia's massive shape had no problem with the shaking ground, and as Ress started to fall she moved a leg over to catch him and keep him from hitting the ground. She didn't move a muscle otherwise, and continued to look ominous and dangerous, the sun glinting off her dark shell*

*Dal looked up in surprise at the loud noise from the volcano, and when the ground moved to match, he quickly steadied himself, that same strange smile still on his face as if he had been unmoved whatsoever, now was not the time to show weakness.*

* Sand steadied himself with one hand against the building where he had concealed himself, looking up nervously should the building began to crumble. His other hand still near his weapons should he need them. *

* Ress' eyes widened as the ground rolled out like a carpet, he moved around, trying to stabilize himself, but soon went toppling over. he reached out in time to grab arachnia's leg, holding on tight so that he would not fall* " Goodness!!.... but... we came here with time to spare!... the volcano shouldn't be doing this! its almost like... its about to erupt!!"

* Glass fell over, letting out a squeak as he hit the ground. he grunted softly, getting to his feet after the shaking had stopped. he fixed his veil, then looked about, wondering if the emperor was correct.. if maybe the volcano was going to erupt sometime soon*

* Bright hit the ground hard, pinned to the ground as it rumbled. When it let up. he growled, leaping to his feet. his breathing quickly went from heavy, to hyperventilation as his body began to glow, the light becoming brighter and brighter*

Oh! *Lirimana fell forward onto the ground, catching herself with her hands, the Third Arm Glaive clattered to the ground next to her and she winced, patting it softly* Oh, I'm sorry, honey... I'll make it up to you with a good buffing later.. *she put the spear back into its sheath and stood up, brushing her straight hair from her face. This style was getting to be rather cumbersome...*

*Mabija readjusted his footing as the ground shook, keeping himself from falling in an almost dance-like maneuver*

* Dace sank his daiklaive in the ground, using it to stabilize himself as the ground quaked. When it had stopped, he pulled his blade from the ground and raised it over his head, ready to strike* " The only thing I have to say to you, Ashen Wind... is thank you for the money!"

* risa dropped to one knee for balance, keeping her head down to that debris wont fly into it. When it stopped, she used the end of her spear to help her back up, then leaped back, keeping her weapon at the ready in case anyone tried to interfere with the ensuing fight* " you can not so easily cause us to waiver, fugitive. You are dealing with 'The Bronze Tigers' the greatest mercenary group in The Scavenger Lands!"

*Dal sighed* " very well... I suppose this ship has already beached itself..." *He looked up at the incoming attack his face changing back to it's usual shape and condition, he reached up and drew out his two massive axes with a spinning motion, lowering down into a fighting stance.*

"This really couldn't be a worse time Dace... If you have no honor as you say, and money is all you want then I will pay you the 15 talents myself, and you can go tell the guild I am Dead, because the man they put that bounty on, is for every right and purpose... gone. Look around you, if we fight you would be a fool to think that it would end well for either of us." *He lunged forward quick as a shot of lighting to get the first strike in if it came to that."

* This whole time, Wave continued to nab up crystals and put them in the cargo bay along with Tari and Reed, but the sound of Dal being called out made wave drop the crystal he and Tari were carrying and leap into action, his weapon drawn and ready to get involved with the ensuing melee* " You picked a fight with the wrong Exalts, Dace!..."

" Hey!!" * tari stumbled, wavering as the weight of the crystal became too much for her to hold all by her patrician self* " I can't do this by my!!"

* Seeing Tari in trouble, Reed rushed over and planted himself under the opposite end of the crystal, putting his hands up and carrying the weight of the heavy crystal along with Tari" We need to pick up the pace! our first priority is to take these Dragon people to safety! Then we can go help Dal and Wave!

*Lirimana frowned at it all, the fighting being a ridiculous sort of thing* Hey, everybody! Stop this nonsense! If you have to fight do it after we save these helpless people! Mr. Dace, I'm hiring you and your team out of my own pocket, help us save these people and then you can go on for other jobs, okay? *she stood up straight and tried to make herself look authoritative*

"If it were all about the money, I would not even be here... I would have taken it from the guild and stockpiled it with whatever else I could pirate... The honorable thing to do would be to respect the contract that has been presented to me and not let anything else get in the way of that... if I was not honorable, I would have told my troops to attack you all... this is between you and I Ashen Wind! Nobody else" * Dace braced himself, readying himself for the conflict*

* Risa leaped in front of Wave, interposing herself between him and Dace as to keep the fight between the two* " Stand down, Dragon... if you want to fight someone, fight me! I am under order from my commander to protect him from outside harm.. but it seems your orders were to save those people in rocks over there!... it seems he has not taught you to respect orders very well"

Hey! Dace, are you listening to me?! *Lirimana stalked over to Dace and got in his face* Look, just take the fucking deal and get on with it, that guy isn't going anywhere because his ass is helping, too. I will not stand by and let you be a damned fool and have us all lose a group of innocent people because you two are having a baby spat. There are two contracts now, so take a brain cell to notice that you can accomplish both of them if you want. If you must pursue this reckless action, wait until we're done, stand back and get the hell out of our way!! *the Twilight's face grew dark and she drew herself up and attempted to tower over him with her Eastern height* Now decide! *she drew her Third-Arm Glaive as she readied to go save people with or without her comrades* I will not let them die!!

*Kahn snapped another crystal at the root with a powerful kick, then took it under her arm. all the while keeping one eye open for the fight between Dal and this Dace man. Her caste mark was now glowing brightly on her forehead, causing her tattoos to glow on her skin and the tiger stripes in her hair to become more obvious. Her movements became faster as she kicked yet another one and carried it back to the airship, only to return and continue the circuit.. all the while watching the fight*

*Jakisi had started summoning demons as fast as she could, unable to go any faster, but summoning them next to the crystals and telling them to put a rush on it was all she could do. The demons from the first set of summoning had now brought their crystals and were working on another set, hurrying so that they could fulfill their orders*

*Arachnia started hurrying into her tying of the crystals up, making sure to do it right, but trying to cut down time by curling into herself as she flew through the air from one point to the next and prepping her silk just before she touched down instead of when she landed*

*Dal couldnt help but grumble at Lirimana lumping him into the source problem, for the third time today he had been misunderstood or what he had said was ignored by his comrades. He had been trying to avoid this whole situation the moment it started, and now that he was unable to avoid it, unable to turn his back on the people he had come to save.* "You really ain't too bright are you Dace... now you're just contradicting yourself..."

*He jumped to the side maintaining his advantage while staying nimble and ready to strike once they stopped sizing each other up.*

"Honor doesn't fill your belly, nor does it shoe your horses... this is just business Ashen Wind, nothing personal!" * he quoted*

"You have a chance to take home 15 talents and 3 bars for doing something good, and telling the Guild that I am no longer a problem for them!" *He lunged back almost 50 ft through the air landing on the side of a building hanging off a ledge perhaps 30 feet off the ground, creating distance between himself and Dace, but leaving himself the option of pouncing from high above.* "Not to mention, you will make a powerful new ally, an Empire where you can expand your business even more, make the right choice, the Sun is watching you."

* Dace put the tip of his Daiklaive down to the ground, then nodded. thinking about what Dal and Lirimana had proposed, then sighed* " Well then... I cant lie to my contractor.... but what I can do, is accept the three bars and the fifteen talents, help you here... then leave without another word.. I'll tell the guild that you gave me the slip... but eventually, we may meet up again... and when that happens, I will have to continue this 'encounter' then...."

* The body of bright exploded into light, sending a stiff wind in all directions before subsiding. In Bright's place was the form of an angry, yet inhumanly beautiful (appearance 6) southern goddess, wearing a gauzy flowing gown made of pure light which clung to her body. The Adamant blades in her hands were now glowing sabers of pure light. Her eyes burned with an inner fury that could only be described as ' bestial'. With a battle cry, she began cutting at the crystals around her, slicing them all at the base in a span of thirty seconds, hacked down eight stocks, allowing them to fall where they may*

* Glass took a deep breath, bowing to one knee, then exhaled, summoning eight translucent camels, which ran from him and to the downed crystals. as they ran by, a thick hemp rope shot from each camel and attached to the crystals., dragging them over to the cargo bay of the airship* " Keep going bright! I'll keep these up as well!!"

*Lirimana stalked away from Dace and was about to start hauling any fallen crystals when Bright went nuts and started cutting down all of the crystals in her area. She grabbed one and started to haul it up into the ship, throwing herself into saving these people. She hoped Dace would really help, because now they needed it, but she wasn't going to count on it*

*Dal really didn't have time to not trust Dace, he shook his head annoyed that Dace would claim that he couldn't lie to his contract but he would... Lie about Dal giving him the slip. This man really was full of contradiction, or he was lying. Either way he gritted his teeth angrily that this had come back to bite him in the ass at a time so crucial.*

"Emperor... beside Dace having a loose definition of what a lie is, I would appreciate it if you could do something about helping him keep his promise. You must understand Dace, this is for the best."

*He jumped down off the building, and like a comet plowed through a row of crystals shattering their bases as he had done earlier, breaking or significantly weakening them as he did so, turning back around to hack at each one until it gave way freeing up six crystals with this pass.*

*Soon as his name had been mentioned, Ress appeared next to Dace, his hand already extended to Dace, ready to seal the deal between them* " ready when you are, Commander Dace"

* Dace jumped back as Ress appeared from nowhere, having never seen him move so much as an inch from where he had been to where he was. he then extended his hand, putting his hand into Ress'* " Don't worry, I know how this works... I have a circle brother who is an eclipse. I promise to aid in the recovery of the people who reside in those crystals and will not hinder the project in any way, and in return, I expect 15 talents of silver, accompanied by three bars all sent to my hideout in Nexus.. afterward, our deal will be over and all other contracts will be moved to the front"

*Dal hacked five more crystals down and shouted at Dace* " Don't forget the part about you getting the hell out of here when we're done, without me!" *As each crystal fell over, he tilted it on it's side and slid it like a canoe on a beach, sending it several armspans to the area where the crystals were being collected.*

* Ress nodded, mulling this all over in his head, then nodding, finding these terms acceptable* " Alright, I accept the terms as presented... and of course, not bothering this man you know as Ashen Wind until your payment arrives... of which I will have preparations made as soon as I arrive back to my empire" * a golden corona of light went around them both, the terms of their agreement swirling around them in many languages*

* Sand emerged from the shadows where he had been waiting. As he did he paused to watch his two friends going all out on the crystals, before, with a smile he turned to the nearest crystal. Unlimbering his spear he began to walk around the crystal repeatedly striking its base as he went. After a complete circuit he gave a heaving kick toppling it from its weakened base.

* The ground shook once more as the volcano stirred, smoke and ash now spewing up into the air, creating a looming cloud of impending doom over the valley below. the sounds of many animals and beasts could be heard as their instincts to flee danger took over, posing that this volcano was indeed trying to erupt early*

* Dace shook Ress' hand, then waved his daiklaive off in the direction of the crystals, hopping on his horse and riding off to help in the cause* " You heard him Tigers! get in there and help!!" * Dace's Daiklaive glowed brightly as he rode by, slicing down each and every crystal he rode by, leaving the ones in his wake for his men to round up and drag back to the cargo bay... but when the ground quaked, his daiklave went inert again as he now had to spend all his focus to keep his horse under control*

*Dal was mid swing with his Axes when the next quake hit, he was unable to recover in time to change his point of balance. He fell straight back as his Axes were swung behind him throwing his weight off, he grumbled at the situation, wishing that he could have had more time to help gather up the dragon kings rather than argue with a mercenary, but he hoped this new army would make up for the lost time. He gritted his teeth forcing himself back up to his feet, chopping down and sliding every crystal he could get his hands on. For what it was worth he had to try to see if he couldn't get a little more time to save these people. He prayed as he hacked down Six more crystals .* " God of this mountain I know this mountains gotta blow but give us some more time! I ask only that you hold back the fury of this volcano just a few hours longer! Any Gods listening I ask only for your help in this time of need!"

*Jakisi maneuvered her way to Ress as she continued to summon demons and she stopped when she was next to him, using the momentary corona to guide her. When the quake hit she almost lost her footing but managed to stay upright this time* Emperor Ress, would you like me to speak to the volcano god? Maybe I can get us some more time..

* Ress leaped into the air as soon as he felt the ground start quaking, avoiding the brunt of it by not being on the ground while the ground rumbled. when he hit the ground, he turned to Jakisi and nodded* " If you can reason with it, be my guest!"

*Jakisi smiled at Dal'Lumen as she suddenly darted by him* I'm going to him, let me know if he answers you before I get there!

*as she practically glided over the battlefield her shape grew larger and she developed into an ethereal woman, large black wings sprouting from her back and her golden eyes glowing softly. Her face had grown somewhat more alien, the lines less human and more God, her more elven.the long flowing robes she wore hid any other changes, and she was off in an instant, her wings carrying her with a huge burst of speed*

*Lirimana tried to avoid falling over this time as well, but couldn't seem to keep her balance, falling on her butt with a heavy thud. She couldn't get up until it was over so she just stayed where she was until she could stand. Once she was up she got right back to work hauling in crystals*

* As the second quake hit Sand slipped in some of the rubble from the first quake causing him to go down hard on his side with the spears shaft under him. With a groan he rolled over and to his feet to move to the next crystal and repeat the process. *

*while going from crystal to crystal hacking at their bases the Fire Aspect went on with renewed vigor he fell right over, the flames scorching the ground as they dug in to stop his fall. Once he could he started back up with his intense swinging*

* Wave stumbled backwards as the quake hit, having been too conflicted with his own course of action. he fell flat on his back and was unable to get back to his feet until the shaking ended*

*Tari started dragging a crystal behind her. her human body far to weak to lift such a heavy burden, but still she spent whatever reserves of will she had to continue the cause*

* Kahn Sighed, looking at all the fields of crystals around her, then at those who were cutting them down. she closed her eyes a moment. then opened them, revealing they had become completely tiger like. her body glowed with a silver tinge as she grew. her clothing expanding to cover her now larger form. her body rapidly grew orange and black tiger fur and her muscles swelled to match her new more dangerous war form. she opened her large clawed hands, then began cutting them down in droves, picking each one up and throwing them over to the open cargo bay of the airship* " We are going to need to pick up the pace if we are to save them all!!"

* Wave got back to his feet, rushing to Tari's side to help her with the heavy crystal she tried to drag all by herself. his gaze kept going back to the volcano and at the ash that was starting to fall down into the valley* " that cant be a good sign... I have heard of volcano gods in the west murdering thousands of lives.. I don't know about eastern volcanoes, but this still cant be good!"

*in the distance at the top of the volcano appeared a blot that rapidly grew closer to the group until the adult god-form of Jakisi touched down in front of them. Her wings folded behind her and that was the start of her de-transformation. In a moment she was back to the body they were all used to, and she straightened out her clothes while she addressed Ress* My Emperor! We have the time we need to finish the job. I will have more information for you once this ordeal is over, though I suggest that we continue to keep up the pace. If you want the information now, I can help you move something

"Well done Jakisi!" *Called Dal, he dashed through another cluster of crystals and began toppling one after another, taking down each one that was in reach of his mighty Axes. Six More crystal encased dragon kings came sliding over to the loading ramp, courtesy of Dal'Lumen.*

* In a gout of magma, a tall divine figure of a volcano deity with translucent skin of glass, which allowed his inner lava to be seen moving below his exterior. With the wave of his hand, he made three crystals shake violently in place, until they broke off their stalks and fell over, he then pushed his hand out in the direction of the airship, sending a rolling sheet of ground to deposit the broken off crystals and uprooting any still standing crystals* " I wish I was here bringing better news.... things are about to get pretty bad... I am here to help in any way I can"

" Yes! Excellent job Jakisi! I knew we would be better off having you come along with us, Jakisi! I am very happy for your....?! " * Ress looked over at the volcano god that appeared and began helping.. then paused out of fear when he said things were going to get really bad*

*Jakisi smiled at Dal and Ress a bit sheepishly, glad to receive praise from a priest of the sun and her emperor. When the God appeared a look of concern crossed her face at his news* Thank you for the warning, and most of all for your help! You will make a fine city god when this is all over!

* Off in the distance, everyone could see that the base of the volcano had sprung a large leak, pouring lava out into the valley, which quickly began flowing in the direction of the excavation team*

*Mabija popped up and leaped on top of one of the crystals, calling out in a voice full of a confidence that would prove infectious* Alright team, we can do this! Despite all our opposition we have managed to prevail and this time will be no different! We are strong as individuals and we are even stronger as a team! These people depend on us right now and I am positive that we are absolutely capable of succeeding in saving every last one of them! In the name of life and in the name of Imperveress we will succeed! *at the end of his speech Mabija was suddenly engulfed in a swirling inferno that slowly rotated around him, blazing hot and eager. He jumped off the crystal and began charging low through the crystals. hacking furious chunks out of them with an outpour of essence*

* On either side of the valley, a green tide poured in, chattering and shrieking as it squeezed itself down into the soup bowl of death. Upon closer inspection, everyone would see this is a tide of goblins! lead by huge 12 foot horned goblins. *

*Dal Roared, hacking even more furiously than before, he was not going to leave a single one of these people behind, he moved from cluster to cluster like wind howling between the trees... He looked up to see the goblins and a shot of panic ran through his body, he raised his head and shouted to everyone, pointing away to the distance. He feared what would come next, something was behind that mountain... The Great Devourer one road had warned him about! He decided that this prediction had been accurate enough up till now, he wasn't going to leave anything else up to metaphor. *

"No... NO! This is not good, everyone listen... something is coming, something big, I don't know if we can stop it like this, but if we don't it will grow stronger and stronger, to the point that it will consume all the Scavenger lands, I was warned of this by one road! MOVE FASTER!"

*Shortly after he stopped yelling 10 more crystals came soaring over to the loading bay. He moved on to the next.*

*Arachnia had started gathering the excess crystals that some of the others were leaving in their wake, tucking them quickly and neatly in a bag made of webbing that was wrapped on her back and her abdomen. In went five more crystals and she was back to collecting more of the yellow pods at a high speed that made her a blur, loading them into her sack for the next haul*

* Dace and company continued to run swaths through the groves of crystals, seeing the goblins, but waited for them to close the gap between them before engaging them as the enemy. They hacked the crystals down at the root, allowing those behind to carry them back down to the cargo bay *

"Well this went straight to Malfeas the second we got off that airship...!" *As the goblins closed in on their 'platoon of exalts' Dal hurtled into the air crashing down in the middle of a large group of goblins throwing several to the side creating a small pocket where he had impacted, his Axes Blazed with divine solar light as he hacked down goblins and crystals alike, whichever presented itself first. Like a whirling cyclone of axes amongst the hoard in the forest of the crystal people. Liberating and dealing death in equal doses.*

*Ress leapt into the air, looking out over the valley from his vantage point of 25 feet in the air. With a flash of sunlight, Ress' bow appeared from the pocket elsewhere inside his bracers. Ress then reached back and pulled an arrow from the quiver on his back, then rapidly shot a stream of arrows at the charging hoard of goblins. his anima glowing slightly around him*

*as she charged, Arachnia pulled out her twin sais and tossed her Moonsilver Black Widow Razors into the air, having them start eating away at the bottom of the nearest crystal while she linked together the two sais and pushed them into their metamorphosis. With a daiklaive now in hand she used its dual-edged shopping power to slice through the bottoms of the pods*

* The Green tide finally washed through the fields of crystals, seeing their natural enemy, the Lunar, in action, they leapt on the opportunity to attack Kahn. with crude blades, claws and teeth, they descended upon the Tiger Lunar, hoping to tear it to pieces, but Kahn was far too fast and nimble for any of their blows to land upon her*

*as soon as Lirimana realized what was going on she took off for the airship, hopping into the weapons command seat for the nearest lightning ballista. Steadying her breath from the sprint to the ship she took aim and fired at the green horde, making sure not to do damage to her team*

Seeing danger, Wave just had to get involved. As if moving through a real tide, Wave treaded out through the goblins, his daiklaive swinging wildly as to curb the unwieldy green river which slowly trickled down into little more than a pond*

* In savage Tiger form, Kahn bounded off to the oncoming green tide, swinging her claws and biting anything she saw that happened to be green, not bothering to practice her martial arts abilities on these lowly creatures*

* Sand carefully hopped up onto one of the remaining fallen crystals and with flicks of his wrist sent needles into the seething green mass.*

* Charging from behind the fathest tide of green, a giant mass of grey flesh could be seen, looking to be little more than a huge maw with rows of hundreds of sharp teeth, mounted on four clawed legs. The sound of its roar was like that of a primordial terror, a sound that was heard with ones lower soul and not with thieir ears at all. The creature had beady black eyes which held no emotion within them.. simply hunger*

[Arachnia of the Hour]

* The still bolstered green tide charged forward, beyond the defenders and into the field of Dragon-King crystals, where they began smashing and breaking crystals as best they could, being controlled by Han-Tha's hive mind, which told them to prepare them for his consumption*

* Risa and her flock of bronze tigers rode up on the encroaching green tide. Without a word, but a flair of her green anima, her group moved into tight formation to engage the loosely commanded goblin forces, once more proving that a fer well trained troops can wipe the floor with a tide of bruisers*

*Jakisi's expression didn't change as she bursted out f her child's skin and into that of her larger, more adult shape. The wispy robes were actually just an ethereal effect, her large wings pumping her into the air a short distance before she shot forward, feathery hair rippling in the wind. As she rocketed towards the green mass she pulled a feather out of her wing, and it morphed into a large purple daiklaive that she held out as she reached the horde, using the momentum of her flight to carry her sword in a hard circle, stopping abruptly in the first part of the mass to do so*

*From his position amongst the front line of the wild hoard, Dal'Lumen shouted out as the gray beast rumbled into view, knowing exactly what this thing would do if it wasn't stopped now. He yelled at the Volcano God, somewhat awkwardly, not knowing what to call him.*

"Oi, you... Volcano god. What can you do about making that Lava of yours flow around the devourer... We need to slow it down so we can protect the Dragon Kings!"

* The god of the volcano stood stunned at the 'great devourer', unable to speak or even move, until Dal's voice jolted him back into reality. The god crouched down, then brought his fist upward, causing a small splash to occur in the swiftly encroaching lava. He stumbled backwards as he saw this, then looked to Dal* " I am sorry, but the volcano itself is cut off from me! I have been terminally desanctioned!.... but..." * The god took in a deep breath, then slid down into a low defensive stance, causing the ground to shake near the crystals, popping them loose. he then made a motion like he was lifting a large crate, which folded the earth under the pile of crystals and poured them over to the cargo bay of the airship* " Ha! I am also the god of this valley here! it seems my desanctioning only applies to the volcano!"

* Bright yelled out in rage as she charged into the green tide, leaving deep footprints where she had passed. when she met with the goblins, they sprayed in all directions as she barreled through the wall of wyld spawn. When she swung her adamant blade through the air, it left a searingly bright streak that continued to linger in the air long after the strike had landed, and each attack sent more green flying*

* Before being picked off clean, the green tide latched themselves to more crystals and picked up where the other tide had left off *

*the Fire Aspect's head turned sharply as the second wave of green mini-monsters started in on the crystals, the cracks getting larger. They were working so hard to save these people, he wasn't going to let tiny filthy creatures wreck all they had done. He had pledged they would save them all and by the gods they would! The thoughts brought his blood scorching through his veins and he tilted his head at the other two he saw alongside him: Reed and Tari* Let's go. *with a roar he held his scimitars out to his sides, striking forward to the group of goblins that were endangering the lives of the Dragon Kings, the flames flickering but refusing to go out as they licked the air earnestly. The fire that had started going down from his speech burst to life once more, creating an essence-fueled inferno around the man who began carving into the tiny and twisted bodies of the goblins. The first strike went wide and he let it pull him through a half-circle, the whoosh of the fire dimmed by the rush of blood in his ears. The second swing picked up where the first let off and he started to rotate, a quick whipping that brought another two attacks through the horde. At the end of his fourth attack, Mabija tilted his swing downward so that he did a spin in the air led by his hips that landed him momentarily on the edge of one of the crystals, not staying long enough to put any real pressure on it before he rolled forward and opened up from it with both hands simultaneously flicking out to make flaming spines in his rolling ball of fire*

* Not for a moment thinking about her own safety, Tari rushed headlong into the fray, hearing the call of Mabija and watching his movements.. the best course of action was to pincer the green tide in and get them from all angles, that way they can be more time efficient and catch these almost mindless creatures off guard. Seeing reed running next to her, she picked him up and leaped into the air, and at the highest point of her ascension, she tossed Reed into the air. when he was a safe distance away, she brought her heel down on the leader goblin, following up by grabbing his 'axe arm' and pulling him off balance, finishing her barrage with a kick to his kidneys as he tumbled over through the air*

* Reed was surprised when he was scooped up into Tari's arms, but knew quickly what to do when his time came. he leaped as soon as he was thrown, sending him farther and allowing him to pass over the crowd entirely. Pulling his knife from it sheathe, he charged into the goblin horde, doing the first thing that came to his mind and sank it into the nearest one's leg. Soon as he got into the swing of things, Reed slid the blade upwards through the wyld creature's body as he climbed it. Soon as he crawled onto the thing's shoulders, he swung himself around, using the panicked beast's flailing to his advantage as he swung at anything that got close. He saw how his short arms and small blade were good, but had little chance of making a dent like he did with the anhules.* " Come on... there has to be something left in you!... A Solar owned you.. just lend me some of that strength!" * In a flash of steel and a shine of silver, the knife in the small child's hand grew many times in size, looking much like the wicked daiklaives that the Exalts themselves wielded. Reed said a silent prayer to the sun, before hopping off the goblin and doing a head-spin on the battle field, his blade extended as to turn him into a living goblin juicer*

* Glass kept his heart calm, despite the clashing combat beyond him.. instead of fighting, he commanded his phantasmal camel's to gather up the loose crystals and drag them to the airship*

* Near the center of the field, Five crystals could be seen standing above the others, though they themselves were no larger than the others.*

* It was not Till now, Dace saw the thing that was making its way to the grove of Dragon Kings in crystals. he motioned for his men to stop as he looked out at it* " What is that? Is that Ma-Ha-Suchi?!" * A chill went through him as he remembered the vicious beating that was dealt to him, and the confusion as to why he was still alive* " I don't want to find out! Troops! lets gather those crystals and get out of here before that... Thing arrives!" * His troops did as they were told, gathering to break crystal and gather loads. *

*Arachnia stopped in her breaking to take the time to gather, making sure to take a moment to take in the five raised crystals while she started stringing up the loose cargo with her webbing. When she was near Dace she spoke up at him while she worked* If that was Ma-Ha-Suchi I'd be much happier, this is Han-Tha! *she darted to another crystal and strung them up, speaking up again as she dragged the load of crystals she had gathered from her and her black widow razors' work* He was one of the evil gods from the Primordial War, eats the essence of the dying and the dead, we can't let him eat the Dragon Kings or he will be unstoppable! *as Arachnia talked she kept shipping her load in, shouting a little so he could still hear her. Despite her observances she focused essence into her muscles, causing her to work faster at gathering while her automata continued their munching* Also, we need to uproot those dais, the material it's made of is valuable and rare

*Dal finished lifting a goblin he had slain off it's feet and tossing it aside like a rag doll to see that the tide had at subsided. When Arachnia seemed to be indicating to the central crystals, his attention was drawn to them, and what she had to say about the situation. He called out to her, but took off sprinting toward the center of the field knowing instinctivly that he should go round up these five right away.*

"I'll go get them now! Whatever that thing is, Do we have any chance of defeating it here, in the state we're in?" *His voice tense, and still gravely as a result of him running along with his enhanced physical might.*

*continuing to chat while she worked, Arachnia addressed Dal's question, spinning silk around the crystals quickly before hopping easily to the next one* We could, it's not impossible, though it won't exactly be easy. With the time frame, however, we might need to abandon the crystal hunt for a moment to assault Han-Tha as one, the lava won't break the crystals and we can always convince our fire-proof friend to wade through and cut down the remaining crystals *the Empress offered an apologetic look to the ball of fire that was Mabija, but she was right... he was fireproof*

*Dal grumbled, something about Warstriders. He turned around and waved his arm toward the airship.*

"This thing isn't going to stop on its own, we need to take it down! How many more guns does that thing have, we should get everyone that isn't suited for head to head combat with this big fellah in one of those and just unleash hell on the bastard from above while the rest of us take it on from the ground! If we can slow it down long enough, maybe the Lava will do it's part in trapping the beast, or even help us kill it!"

*He came up on the five crystals soon after this, and turned back to Arachnia, seeing that these crystals were different, he wanted to make sure he was doing the right thing before breaking them outright.*

"I could use some help with these when you guys get the chance!"

It might be best to just dig these up, the base is yellow Jade, and it's just as durable as any other color. Give me a moment and I will help out *as soon as she was done speaking her form became smaller and at the same time was still large. Fur has sprouted along her body and she had changed colors to brown from her previous black. Huge paws supported the girth of a female grizzly bear in her prime. Despite the physical contortions she didn't let out a sound over the few moments it took to shapeshift*

"You got it!" *He wasted no time thereafter, rooting through the dirt, using the broad side of his axes like a shovel to excavate one of the crystals."

* Wave took off out of the crystal grove and off in the direction of the closing lava. Wave ran at full speed until he was within throwing distance of the lava, then yelled back to the group from his new vantage point* " I don't know if any of you have ever seen a volcano erupt, but it hardens into a black rock that makes islands larger! That is not the kind of thing we want to entomb our sleeping friends!!.. the best way to handle this, is by stopping it... the way only a wave can do!" * Wave tuned back around, holding his extended hand to the encroaching lava, shooting a long powerful stream of water from it, of which cooled the lava whee it hit, slowing down its descent*

* The huge tiger beastman form of Kahn took to the sky once more, batting away whatever bits of goblin were left on her. She landed a matter of feet from Dal, giving him a nod as she wrapped her huge arms around one of the taller crystal casings* " Whoever these are, they are set out different from the rest. You are right, they must be important.. possibly they are the elders!... and we always take care of our elders..." * Kahn closed her eyes, then dramatically threw them open, having gone from normal eyes, to deep red orbs in her skull. Kahn's whole body bulged and surged as veins popped from her giant ripped back and neck. With a loud, terrifying roar, she began to thrash, pulling the huge crystal out by the root, taking the dirt and the six inches of first age street under that. She roared again as she chucked the thing like a football, getting the broadside of the airship and missing the cargo bay completely... well, I guess we cant be 100% all the time*

" Great devourer?... how about great caterer.... how many blackberries do you think I can turn him into?... maybe mangoes? or bananas?" * Ress drew his broad-head arrows from his quiver and set one to his bow. His anima then erupted into full iconic as twelve large shimmering wings appeared on the back of the emperor. A circular pulse shot from Ress' elbow and traveled all the way down hos arrow. when it reached the tip, Ress let go, letting it sail at the rampaging beast before them, and in the blink of an eye, followed up with two more arrows quicker than any mortal ( per+aware pool smaller than 7) could see... but they all bounced harmlessly off the hide of the ancient all consuming horror. Ress lowered his bow when he saw his arows found no purchase, gawking at what he just saw*

" We need to think harder... this thing is coming on fast!"

*inside the ship Lirimana took aim at the ugly grey Han-Tha and fired, hoping her rudimentary knowledge of this contraption would be good enough. If nothing else maybe she could switch with Ress.. He was a propulsion-weapon man and she was more of a pointy-stick girl anyway, until then, she intended to give it her all*

* Sand, still perched atop the fallen crystal looked at the carnage left over from the green beasties then up out at the grey monstrosity. Reaching in amongst the folds of his robe he pulled out a small box and flipped it open. Extracting a dagger from within he focused for a moment before carefully throwing the blade at the Devourer He watched in a mixture of dismay and satisfaction as the daggers struck but failed to pierce its tough skin. *

[Arachnia of the Hour]

* Risa broke away from her group of fifty bronze tigers and silently ordered them to go stick with commander Dace. . With another flair of her anima, her and her horse darted forward, charging headlong for the huge rampaging forbidden god, Han-Tha. In her horses footsteps, patches of deep green grass grew, expanding outwards into a trail from where she was, to where she was going. Risa's spear glowed green as she began readying her combo for full attack power. All around her, her anima solidified into a mass of huge thorny vines which whipped and lashed in all directions, threatening to smack anyone foolish enough to get too close. At the last moment, Risa reared back, then drove her spear forward and into the flesh of the forbidden god. Upon impact, leaf patterened essence shot out, giving a floral display before Risa broke away, steering her horse to safety before the monster could have a chance to fight back*

* Seeing that the goblins were all dead, Bright turned her attentions back to the crystals. seeing that they were now down into the double digits, she put both hands on her blade, taking a deep breath as she stood still for the first time since her transformation. She slowly brought her blade back, her elbows stopping just before her right eye.. then with a loud reverberating shout, she brought the cut down upon one of the crystals, leaving a glowing yellow afterimage of her cut burnt into the retinas of anyone who looked upon it*

*as the carnage continued, Jakisi pulled herself up from her harsh swing and proceeded to launch herself into the air, legs bending and pushing off as hard as they could to get the most speed quickly. Her wings pumped the air, pitching her body up high. She kept going until the sun blocked their view of where she was and let her body fall in a soft backflip, using the sharp turn to redirect her course, and with a couple of determined wingbeats Jakisi began hurdling towards Han-Tha. Not long after she started to descend, Jakisi closed her wings, using one to begin a rotation of her body before holding them close against her sides. Arms straightened out so that she was more aerodynamic and she held the sword out and let it become the tip of her self-made drill. The spiraling increased in proportion until she a multi-colored blur headed right at the gray monster, no intention of swerving in sight*

*pulling out from his explosive ball of fire from his attack on the horde, Mabija jumped from the pile of dead scorched corpses, their armor partially melted to their now-smoking flesh. With a quick, purposeful stride he waded through the battlefield, stepping on or over the carcasses of the deceased as he chose, his target Han-Tha, the guy making this shit way harder than it needed to be* This was supposed to be a nice easy trip, like a vacation. But no, you felt the need to crash what was already going to hell. Not. *Mabija brought the first scimitar into a vicious downward slash, the blaze surrounding them both flaring a little as some of the flames jumped angrily from his weapon onto Han-Tha's body while he struck* Cool. *as he stopped speaking, Mabija turned his foot sideways and pushed himself in a short controlled circle and whipped the other of his paired swords into the hide of his enemy. A hop backward and he had distanced himself from Han-Tha in case he had thoughts of quick retaliation*

* As if from nowhere, a laugh rang out through the valley, causing birds and animals to scurry away as fast as possible. Three trees fell to the ground, shaking the ground as they impacted. In the clearing, stood a dark skinned and dark haired southerner, clad in a heavy orichalcum breastplate and holding a orichalcum grand daiklaive in his right hand, pointed away from him and held in what could only be the same swing that cleared out the trees. A crazed grin was plastered on his face as he stood there, chuckling to himself*

" Well Well.. I am impressed... you all seem to have been able to collectively wound the great Han-Tha. I am Filial Wisdom, The Goblin King and Champion of The Eater of The Dead... it is only the natural order that all things must be consumed and put to good use within another cycle... now then, this means you and the creation you live in will inevitably be consumed by my master.... We are grateful that you have brought us to this ancient city and gathered us food... because once Han-Tha has consumed the sleeping power sources here, we should all have the power we need to start the Carrion Crusade! now then.."

* Filial Wisdom brought his blade back to rest its huge handle on his shoulder, then gave a bounding leap from the forest and into the fray, quickly accompanied by a mob of huge axe wielding Goblins. He stomped on the ground next to Mabija, leaving a crater. A golden brand glowed on the brow of this crazed 'Goblin King' Letting all know he was a Dawn Caste Chosen of the Sun, but this was definitely not a sign of him getting ready to 'Dance magic dance'. His anima billowed to life, shooting golden bolts of lightning in all directions. The bolts shot in all directions, honing on Mabija like a static ball, before the apostate Dawn exploded in a barrage of blows, each one ringing out through the valley like a thunderclap, and sending out jolts of lightning in every direction.*

*the crazy man appeared practically out of nowhere and caused Mabija to start, reflexively whipping his scimitars up to deflect it. As the blades connected and sparks began to fly, the flickers of fire that were made through the vice crash of metal against metal began to hang in the air around Filial Wisdom's face, growing bigger and brighter, blindingly so. A high-pitched keening let off as he tried his best to parry the crazed Dawn's blows, taking the opportunity to try and twist the blade from Filial's hands, the desire for the scent of burning skin bubbling up in Mabija's gut as he hoped his flames did something as his scimitars tried to find purchase. Whipping around from his attempt to disarm the man, Mabija tucked his weapons close and thrust them out in front of him, feigning attacks in hopes of successfully knocking off the crazy man's blows*

* And if the sounds of a little boy's dreams could be heard by mortal ears, Reed's broken ones would undoubtably have drowned out the sounds of combat and volcano erupting alike. He thought all Solars were good people like those found in Imperveress... but seeing this Goblin King and his minions in action showed Reed the light. Anger burned inside the child's chest as he watched the ancient terror attack the dragon-blooded Mabija* " You are a monster! How could The Unconquered Sun's favor ever fall on you, Goblin King? you were given a great gift, then poisoned it! But not any longer... because I'll have your head, then take your Exaltation!"

* Reed hopped through the rapidly deteriorating terrain, from roof to crystal to first age vehicle until he landed before The Goblin King, drawing his weapon once more and bringing his giant daiklaive, once knife, down upon the perverse chosen's chest... but it bounced harmlessly off the Solar's Orichalcum armor*

* Tari looked on at the rapidly escalating fight. fear shot through her as she looked on at the huge monsters, evil Exalts and forbidden god.. knowing she stood no chance against any of them. she looked around for any way to be of help without putting herself in danger. Upon looking at Wave, she knew her place now, like always was at his side. she ran to him and began scooping out a trench for the lava to pour into so that Wave might have a longer time to ready his elemental blasts* " Why couldn't I have been a Dragon too?... I was a master martial artist... I memorized the immaculate texts.. I can play the saxion..."

* This new larger green tide closed in on the crew, one wave going for Kahn, and the other making its way to the crystals, falling just short of striking range*

*her shape solidified, Arachnia as the bear tried to ignore the fighting, the urge to protect Ress welling up inside her. A glance his way assured he was safe, though, and she started helping Tari with the moat they were making, seeing that the volcano god was having just as easy a time getting them out of the earth whether or not she cleared the spot. A flurry of dirt sprang up as she got to work, using the bear's powerful body to thrust large amounts of dirt backwards*

* The Volcano god too looked around, knowing he could do very little now that he was terminally desanctioned, but knew of one last thing he could do to contribute. He jumped into the air, then stomped as he hit the ground, making many of the buildings that still stood, fall to the floor, ruined.. but the method to this madness became all too apparent.. the roads under their feet were now broken, allowing for an easier time of excavating the crystals that lay attached to the valley floor*

* With little else he could do, Glass continued his control of the spectral sand steeds. Making them gather up any broken crystal still laying inert and not on the ship*

[Arachnia of the Hour]

"Damn this just keeps getting better. DON'T GIVE 'EM AN INCH!"

*Dal looked up at Kahn, shaking his head. At this point he was torn, whether to join in the fight, or ensure that the crystals would be safe... he realized the crystals would not be safe if the fighting went badly. He shook furiously, at the decisions presented to him, it was true, the lava was less immediate as a threat to the dragon kings, and would only be an inconvenience later... He clinched his hands down on the handles of his Axes and decided, ironically, that the head of the snake needed to be removed. He pointed at Lirimana in her Lighting ballista, and then over at the Goblin King, he would face the Goblins approaching, and would come back to this 'Goblin King' to show him his own heart when he got the chance*

"We may need to fight Khan, let's bring these green abominations to their doom... I will hold this spot and not let a single one pass!"

*He turned soundlessly, focusing his attention on the charging hoard, cold and predatory as the lethal vipers his style represented, undaunted by their physical mass, his eyes burning with righteous fury. He ran essence burning off of him brilliantly before it exploded into two mighty fists atop extending arms as tall as trees and as mighty as Dals own reaching skywards, shattering the chains that bound them into glimmering specks of falling essence in his wake, a heavenly bolt of Solar judgment streaking over the ground.*

"I will remove you all from the face of the world you seek to destroy, all you filth laid out before me will be judged under the laws of Imperveress, creation, and the Unconquered Sun!"

*His footsteps hammered the ground, leaving behind him shattered golden ground, which faded soon after his passing, and as each was taken,

so to was a sin named.*

"For the Crimes of worshiping a forbidden god (1), aiding and abetting what can be described only as a tainted Exalt (2), assembling in an army for the purpose of destroying creation (3), blatant genocide(4), conspiracy to commit genocide (5), thirteen counts of assault upon and bearing arms against Imperial officials (6), obstruction of imperial mandate (7), attacking members of a humanitarian effort (8), bearing arms with the intent to harm against the Emperor (9), bearing arms with the intent to harm against the Empress (10), forming an unsactioned militia (11), and injustices against the celestial courts (12), the terrestrial courts (13), and the Unconquered Sun (14), I here by sentence you all to death at laws edge!"

*When Dal collided with the encroaching great goblin army his banner and raging anima exploded outward upon impact, only to surge up again at their center, cascading solar light down upon the green giants. Trails of light through the unorganized mob indicating that Dal had moved through the crowd in that singular moment of blinding light, leaving trails of essence indicating his passing. The horde stood as if petrified for a moment, still holding their last living actions before they met their end. Like dominoes they fell from the center out in green bloody chunks. the towering beacon of righteous solar furry dieing down to immolate the only living thing left standing, Dal'Lumen with his Axes still out at arms length on either side of him. He turned slowly, centering himself for a moment before taking off running back in the direction of the rest of the fighting, leaving the radial Goblin apocalypse behind him.*

* Dace stopped his horse abruptly,sending dust and grass in all directions, his horse making angry noises having been forced to make such a halt. In a single essence fueled movement, Dace left three feet off his horse and landed on the ground, making a clicking noise with his tongue, making his horse gallop off away from the fray. Dace raised his daiklaive high in the air,then brought it down at his side, causing his still mounted troops to back off, forming a unit of their own, apart from dace and Risa completely.*

" Whether it's black, yellow, red or orange, nobody bares that brand against me... I don't care what you all do.... Wisdom is mine!"

* Dace took off running, holding his weapon down at a 120 degree angle, slicing up the street below and sending golden sparks and rock fragments in all directions. When he was in range, Dave let go of his handle for a split second, long enough to grab it the opposite direction and roll his hip, spinning clockwise into his strike as to add extra momentum to it, sending chunks of terrain into the face of the heretic Dawn, Filial Wisdom*

* Seeing both the challenge and the display from the bald Dawn with the huge shoulder pads, Filial Wisdom jumped into action, bringing his Grand Daiklaive down to meet the smaller, yet no less deadly Daiklaive of Dace's, A pulse of force and a shot of golden lightning erupting from the meeting of the two sun aspected blades, negating out both motions completely*

* Once more Sand extracted blades from his box before pausing a moment to survey the situation. Mentally measuring up the distance of the lava from the Han-Tha he threw a pair of the daggers in the hopes of delaying the monstrosity only to watch them miss completely*

* Ress Looked on at the skermish, biting his lower lip as he deliberated what to do, slightly overwhelmed due to the fact that he knew more about social structures and how to run an empire, than warfare. Ress's body seemed to blink out of existance, then reappear on top of the airship, looking out over the terrain at a birds eye view now. Ress' head then hung low as he took in what was just beyond the normal range of human sight* " We are in far more trouble than I could have imagined....... I count five thousand heads of Goblins, and that number seems to be steadily rising!.. they should be here in a matter of moments!! I'll do what I can, but I am afraid I am not enough to take them all..."

* Ress sighed, raising his head back up. The pale golden miasma of essence around him leaping to life and once more becoming twelve huge feathered wings at his back. He readied seven arrows to his bow, took a breath, and let them fly way off and out of sight*

* Kahn knelt down upon one huge tiger knee, squaring herself and extending her clawed hands before her, ready to catch blows, but more set for dishing them out. She stood firm as the ten Goblins closed in on her. Her movements were slow and fluid, but at the same time, swift and precise, going from an almost useless kata-like sway, to a ferocious tiger like strike with claws bared. The eyes of Kahn glowed bright silver as her tattoos glowed to match, making her look like a terrible war goddess as she rent the green tide asunder with her bare hands*

* Wave began to pant, having spent much of his strength and essence already in stopping the lava from consuming himself and his cohorts in the flowing tide of molten rock. He took a moment to look to either side, taking note of Arachnia and Tari, who were helping him by building a trench. He knew he had to keep doing this, but the futility of the action was beginning to become apparent* " I am not sure how much longer I can hold this Lava back!... this may be the last time!" * Wave stepped forward, this time into the lava, allowing his anima to cool the lava around him... but only around him. And just as before, he took his stance, then shot his fist forward, shooting a massive torrent of icy water onto the rolling tide of creation's Hearts blood*

*up in the ship, Lirimana bit her lip much like her Emperor who was right above her and she looked between the two main big bad nasties, debating for a second as the gun readied itself for her to use When Dace claimed Filial Wisdom at least she found herself a target. Whipping the gun back up to aim at Han-Tha, she powered it up and pulled the trigger, hoping she was making a difference*

* Risa, seeing her commander locked in combat with another Solar, did what she was told to do back on The Blessed Isle when two commanders would call each other out in the middle of war.. stand to their sides and make sure nobody interfered in the fight. With spear in hand, she readied herself to bat any oncoming blows that would get in between them*

*Mabija reeled back from his successful parry, panting a little as he let his gaze take a quick scan through the battlefield. His essence was low and his desperate attempt at staying alive had cost him more of that precious pool. He was torn for a split second at whether to keep Han-Tha on his toes or help in the erymanthoi and camels' collection effort, but they were doing very well and he could see Jakisi and Grand Bright closing in so it looked as though a distraction was in order. He began leaping and dancing at the ugly grey thing, flashing his flaming metal all around Han-Tha's face, a strike aimed at every few inches of his body as he spun and swung with what would normally be a beautiful and deadly step, though the lethality of such a thing without essence on this creature would be weak at best. The flames continued to whirl around him, creating a red and orange cyclone that made him hard to look at, pulling every last swing possible*

* finally, The Eater of the dead has arrived. Though burnt, blown up, cut and blunt force trauma, he has still managed to bring himself to the pile of fallen goblins, where it began devouring them en masse. but like certain African crustaceans and insects, Han-Tha has the uncanny ability to eat and fight at the same time. Seeing the creatures before him, he picked the ones of which he felt consuming their essence would best benefit him, then opened his assault on Dal, Sand, Reed and Kahn, clawing at them with the blinding speed of a forbidden god, all the while, the consumed essence of the goblins healing his badly battered body*

*Dal looked up, not pleased at all that he had been chosen as this blubbering gluttons target, he refused to be hit, and had more important things to deal with than being injured now. The forbidden Gods claw came down upon him while he ran back to the group but found no purchase against the agile Zenith. From the dust and rubble sent into the air a flash of light illuminated the cloud and Dal emerged unscathed, calm, collected, and ready for the next task at hand. He looked away to the Emperor atop the Airship, he closed the gap between himself and Ress, jumping to the top of the airship, landing near silently beside him.*

"Emperor, I suggest we turn our efforts to establishing a course for retreat, we collect the last crystals and then make a tactical exit... We can come back with more firepower, and soldiers to deal with this threat before it ever reaches Imperveress or any major cities..."

*He shook his head in frustration.*

"I knew I should have brought Bine..."

* Reed pulled his blade up, interposing it between him and Han-Tha's vorpal claw, sending sparks in all directions as the huge daiklaive like 'knife' ran against the forbidden god's claws. Reed was shot flying backwards at the attack. He brought his sword down into the ground, trying to slow himself down through the friction. Reed's green hair and purple scarf flapped through the air as he came to a stop. Reed's breath became heavy as the three cuts on his chest began bleeding profusely.He dropped down to one knee and sobbed to himself, unable to get up from the crippling wound that had been dealt to him. His whole body quaked as he struggled to keep from falling over*

*Kahn's huge ham of a hand came to meet Han-Tha's, stopping it in its tracks long enough to slip out from under the deadly claws of the great devourer. Kahn noticed Reed's small hurt form. She wanted to scoop him up and take him away from here, but she could not do it,,, there just was not any time after that devastating attack*

* Having been caught up in the deadly beauty of the Fire Aspects attack Sand almost missed the strike coming for him, only catching it as a blur at the corner of his eye. As the beasts claws flashed at him, all they caught was air as Sand flashed backwards in a flutter of black silk. Breathing heavily with adrenaline at the close call, he knew he was badly out of his depth. *

* Bright looked over at the grey mass, the small child, the southerner and the tiger monster. She could feel her essence depleting and this form slowly failing. She dropped her glowing blade, allowing it to turn into nothing, putting both hands now on her adamant blade, putting everything she had into this one strike. She hopped forward, swinging her blade at the crystals, hoping she had enough strength left to at least break one of them. A streak of light followed her attack, leaving that same after image in front of her. As she had hoped, Bright had cut down a single crystal. When she landed, the light around her faded away, leaving her looking like how she had before... a veil wearing southerner. He then fell to the ground, having been sapped of his strength*

*Jakisi started in on another attack, knowing she had to be doing something. Han-Tha looked to be healing from the damage as he ate the bodies around him, but she could see the raw angry strips from where she had managed to do some damage still shiny and swollen. As Bright fell down she kept her peripheral vision available and trained on her while she reassured herself that Bright would be okay. She tugged her sight from Han-Tha just long enough to see the blood blossom and drip crimson over her friend's chest. Rage boiled through her and a flash of menace hardened her soft gold eyes into orichalcum rocks that would make diamonds melt. Her wings flared as she threw herself at the grey beast, swinging as hard as she could at Han-Tha, fueling her blows with her fury at almost losing her best friend. In Jakisi's mind the words she screamed never reached, her attentions consumed with the three strikes she was able to draw down upon the eater of the dead in front of her* YOU CAN'T HAVE HIM! HOW DARE YOU! HOW DARE YOU!!

* Ress continued looking on at the fight and the oncoming hoard. He sighed, then spoke up to Dal* " We will have to work quickly then... Those Goblins will be here any second.... Roaring Wave cant keep that lava away much longer, and when he gets out, it will overrun our airship.... and Han-Tha.... if we don't keep him away from those five dragon kings, he will be unstoppable... I am sorry, but I don't know how to get out of this.... I am at a complete loss as to how to solve this situation.... retreat is definitely the thing to do... but the only way I can see it working is if we left now...with three dragon kings left behind..."

* Filial Wisdom Laughed maniacally as his patron both devoured their followers and fended off the invaders. His anima pulsed around him as the sound of thunder once more shot through the valley, golden lightning striking down all around him* " That's your best bet, Red pants! run away and tell your dogs to come with you.... maybe you will survive longer than this pathetic, wet jungle filth that so many call 'home'." * Filial Wisdom hopped over to the downed crystal, smacking it with the flat end of his daiklaive in the direction of the huge devouring beast* " Here! eat it and take its strength!!"

* Risa stood dumbfounded at what she just saw... another Dawn general escaping from a one on one dual?... how could this be? Without thinking, she rode her horse to the far side of the former field of crystals, blocking his exit, should he try to retreat*

* Tari began to sob as she saw everyone trying so hard to help the dragon kings, not to mention survive... but failing. She looked down at the trench she had been helping to make, seeing that it was a futile effort that he had wasted her time on. There was no place for a mortal here, as the poor little Reed had proven. Maybe if she'd trained harder? maybe if she had memorized a few more songs, or katas or even if she could have gotten Wave motivated to try harder.. maybe this wouldn't have happened*

* Boom! A great explosion went off,followed by a blinding blue and white light, sending obsidian and ice in all directions. When the steam and sediment had cleared,it was made clear that Tari's skin is now glowing blue, and a flowing corona of like aspected essence was cascading all around her, freezing the oncoming lava before it had the chance to burn her*

* Tari looked down at her now blue hands, then to Wave, then at the Lava that was flowing around her. Without thinking, she held her hands out, sending a blast of water from them and onto the lava... only to have that same essence leap back up from the cooled lava and into her waiting hand*

*Arachnia hopped sideways as Tari blew up, a funny movement for a huge grizzly to do, and she used the momentum to keep going instead of risking a fall from moving such a large amount of bulk so suddenly. Lumbering forward she snatched the crystal and began batting it forward towards the ship. With an unintentional growl she jumped the front half of her body up and used the downward force channeled through her arms to beat the crystal up the ramp and into the cargo hold, moving on to start collecting the mostly dead, grabbing Reed gently in her teeth and tossing him onto the hump that was basically the massive section of her shoulder muscles, hoping he could use one of his appendages to hold on, he did have four available. Next was Bright, and she slung the downed warrior over her shoulder. As she passed Tari again she growled out congratulations, the sultry voice of the Empress a strange thing coming from an animal like the grizzly * Good job, Chosen of the Dragons

*Dal Gritted his teeth, running on fumes at this point, he knew he had to be quick, and his essence wouldn't serve him much longer, he would save it for what was proving to become a final desperate effort. His heart leaped when he saw Tari Exalt before his own eyes, pride swelling inside him for his new student. She had always deserved it. He roared in his gravely hulk voice and hurled himself off the airship,landing amidst the last three crystals which were now swarmed by goblins. He thought back to what he had heard Cho-Ho-Xo say, something almost forgotten amidst the turmoil... He held his Axes sideways so their broad end would be the striking surface and smashed the crystals with everything he could exert, there was no obvious display of essence which indicated just how close he was to empty.*

" I knew you had it in you Tari, now, the rest of us need to focus on bringing these last crystals in, and getting the hell out of here while we're ahead!"

*He turned his attention to the touch down line, and Ran, throttling goblins and pushing anything that got in his way violently aside. He ran straight up to the Air ship and bowled the crystal he had collected to the end, turning around to see what seemed to be the world collapsing behind him from the doors of the airship. He stood at the doorway, sweat and goblin blood pouring off of him while he scanned the battlefield should he need to go out one last time to retrieve a fallen comrade.*

* Reed continued to sob as he was carried away, having never been hit by anything before, and now felt like he was at the brink of death... and as any ten year old in the same situation. Reed took in a deep breath, a loud wail undoubtedly coming up... but it didn't come... simply an intelligible yell* " Ghronder!!!!!"

* The bronze tigers followed suit, creating a dual circle around Filial Wisdom, boxing him into a set arena for Dace to engage*

* The god of the volcano sped off to the final standing crystal, then kicked it, sending part of the street below the soil upwards, causing the crystal to fly end over end through the air, falling harmlessly to the ground* " Remember!... I was promised a position as a city god!... I expect it to be made good upon!"

* Dace made a motion to run after Filial Wisdom... but with a small twitch, swallowed his pride and scooped up the fallen crystal that the volcano god had knocked loose, carrying it back to the air ship and to safety* " Risa, Tigers!... make a tactical retreat and wait for me in Nexus!"

*Mabija aborted and took off to grab the last crystal, hefting it with a grunt, and doing his best to keep focus off of his nigh-empty essence supply. A few hours of sleep sounded good, but he wasn't sure that would happen soon. These Dragon Kings were all saved, including the yellow jade his Empress had wanted so badly. When they got back, he was going to look for something more protective and red jade. After depositing the crystal he stood by the door to make sure people were getting in okay, unable to leave a man behind*

I don't promise lightly, I will make sure you get a city position just as I said. You're welcome aboard... *Jakisi tried not to follow Arachnia nervously, swallowing a wince every time her less-than-smooth romping up the ramp jostled her wounded friend*

* The Almost without number green tide was now upon them, their weapons and ugly faces now all completely visible. The tide rose up to attack.... but that was when red dots appeared all through the tide.thousands of tiny phoenixes blasted from the forest, engulfing the tide in a thick red and gold flame that burnt them all to a fine ash*

* From the forest, two huge beasts charged into the clearing... one, a huge boar with giant tusks and withing tentacles on it face... the other a behemoth of a scarab, on its back two riders.. one a red haired southern man wearing an orichalcum chain-shirt, auroch leather vest and slacks and holding a plasma tongue repeater in either hand*

* the giant boar charged out into the lava, bringing its huge snout down to the ground, digging a deep trench where the flowing lava began to pool, but could not fill up quickly enough to continue its filling of the valley*

*the other figure was a woman in Orichalcum lamellar armor with dark hair braided against her head that were coiled together after the base of her skull. Her skin was a dusky bronze and as some of the goblins exploded she leaped off the side of the scarab and plummeted with a laugh to the man up top* You're taking all the kills! My turn! *at the last second she whipped out a huge Orichalcum hammer and crushed the head of the goblin next to the one she landed on, the sheer impact, and a subtle double kick as she landed shattering its bones. The hammer splatted the goblin it hit, the force of the hit creating a shockwave that caused the last of the goblins to fall down, blood trickling from every orifice they had and vibrating the ground near the airship. It took her a moment as she realized she had killed them before she sighed and shrugged, looking up to the man on the scarab, not even a drop of sweat on her face* Well, I guess this is goodbye,then? Not forever, of course

" Ha!" *Ress banished his bow into his bracer, then hopped off the airship and onto the ground below, raising his voice to the combatants still out there* " Like Dal Said! Everyone, back into the Airship! We need to retreat with our refugees!" * Ress retreated himself into the Airship, waving a goodbye to Dace*

* As told, the rest of the skirmish crew quickly made their way back into the airship, not wanting to get caught up in the fight with ancient gods, psychotic Exalts or tides of goblins. The behemoth Scarab then turned its back to the valley, making its getaway, but the southern man continued to watch the southern woman and the citizens making their way onto the airship* " Goodbye, my Queen... and remember, where the wicked hide, The Righteous Devil shines...... and after all these years, the catchphrase still has not improved" * The man laughed as he and his behemoth disappeared into the jungle*

[Arachnia of the Hour]

*the woman gave a wave to the man slowly moving from even their enhanced sight ranges. She then turned to the group and followed them up toward the ship. Her stride was confident and easy, and when she came to a standstill at the mouth of the airship's ramp she didn't even bother to look over her shoulder to the enemies who had been giving the group so much trouble, the air that they weren't a threat in the air around her. The woman was about 5 foot 8 and was beautiful despite the raw carnage she had just unleashed, had managed to keep most of it off of her. She carried the massive hammer over one shoulder and she looked in on those inside* Mind if I catch a ride with you guys?

" Get on quick!" * Ress shouted from inside the cargo bay, before disappearing completely in little more than a blur and a flash of dust, reappearing in the seat of one of the control panels*

" I can feel it.... my volcano is going to blow its top in a matter of minutes!" * The Volcano god looked slightly frightened, but resolute... but it was strange... why wouldn't a god simply dematerialize to avoid danger?... why stand among it with the mortals?*

Cool, thanks *she stepped in past Mabija as the door started to close, re-sheathing her hammer after she was safely inside the ship. Despite the strange company she seemed at ease, not hint of nervousness or fear at being so vastly outnumbered*

Lifting off *Lirimana put the ship into drive and got them airbound, knowing the others would take their positions and help finish the job*

*Dal was still soaked to the bone in all manner of filth, most of which was blood and dirt clotted together, none of which was his own. His attention turned back to the wounded party members briefly, knowing lirimana needed help with the ship before she could attend to them. He nodded to her and jumped into his seat helping take off and burn hot.*

* The Monstrous Boar below stood unphased in a puddle of Lava, looking up at the airship as it took off, leaping onto its hind legs and letting out a loud snort, followed by a squeal like a wild swine, just before slowly dematerializeing into thin air.

Down below, Filial Wisdom and Han-Tha could be seen gobbling up the bodies of the fallen, almost oblivious to the quickly rising Lava all around them*

* Reed cried softly as he clutched his still bleeding chest, shaking a little. He sniffed, using the last of his willpower to retrieve his bag and pick from it a needle and thread.. then began sewing himself up, whimpering in pain the whole time* " He promised he would come if I needed him... and he kept it..."

*Arachnia slipped into Lirimana's room and got out the satchel she knew had all of Lirimana's medical supplies and a bucket of water and a towel and brought it to Reed* Come here, Reed, no need to do this yourself. In a moment Lirimana will be available, in the meantime, let's get you cleaned up so the process is easier. How does that sound? *the Empress knelt and wiped away Reed's tears with the hem of her shirt, not having any sleeves. Now she stripped the boy of his shirt and got to work cleaning him up, ignoring the mess she was going to make on herself* We need to give him medical attention immediately, and anyone else who was harmed by Han-Tha. If he cuts you just bleed until you die, so don't be afraid to come forward

*Jakisi fluttered around Reed, helping take away clothes before being shooed away by her Empress. Looking for something to occupy her she started to look at the newcomer with a bit of forced curiosity before smiling with a weak apologetic feel and turning back to bite her lip and watch over Reed*

*as soon as she could, Lirimana threw the airship into cruise control and was about to run and get her bag, but Arachnia had already retrieved it. If it wasn't a matter of emergency she might have complained mentally of invasion of privacy, but she would have wanted it this way anyhow, so she opened the bag up and grabbed what she needed* Thanks for cleaning him up, I'll be done soon *she gave Reed a sincere smile as she got to work, infusing her work with a little Solar Power*

* Once the ship was at an altitude that was safe, Ress turned in his seat, slumping over a little as he rested his hands on his thighs, propping himself up as so. His hair was draped over his face as he rested there* " That..... was a lot more dangerous than I had first anticipated... but I am happy that we managed to retrieve the refugees and left no worse for wear..."

* Wave looked Tari up and down, then over at Reed, his concern for the child winning out over his pride for his wife's 'late hatching'. He knelt next to Lirimana and Reed, looking over the procedure* " Don't worry little warrior..... I don't think I would have handled an injury like that as well as you have when I was your age.... Is there anything I can do for you Reed?"

* A huge impact could be felt as the volcano blew its top.. the sight of falling ash, soot and burning bits could be seen out of the windows of the airship*

*Mabija looked on as everyone huddled around their most wounded member, and turned his attention on Bright, picking her p and taking her to a cot nearby where he laid her down and got his own cloth and bucket, wiping away dirt, grime and blood so when it was her turn she could receive care. As he worked, though, he realized that she was healing without aid and he shrugged, making sure she had water and a blanket over her before leaving to stand by the door so he could monitor her and the others*

"i'll be fine... But thank you...." * reed laid still as Lirimana patched him up. it was obvious that the small child was angry at himself that he got so injured and did not Exalt* " I'm just glad Ghronder arrived when he did..... and his friend... the big bug"

* Tari looked herself over, trying to keep herself calm as to not activate any innate charms she might have... having no idea what it is that causes these charms to run. Knowing the basic techniques of Danna'd, She used them to calm herself, focusing her powers inward, while staying away from anything breakable, as the corona of frozen death still hung around her*

* Kahn's body shrank just as quickly as it grew, taking her from a monster, to a sexy eastern woman in almost the blink of an eye. she plopped down on a crate which one could only assume held snacks* " that was intense..... I half expected to see Walker in Darkness out there....."

*Dal stood up from his chair a fair while after everyone else had started moving around the ship, his attention had been on the view screens. He thought in silence wondering what had happened to the two adversaries below, wondering if they could have survived having the unsettling worry that he would have to see them again all too soon. He moved to the back and loomed a few feet away from reeds bed, not wanting to get in the way any more than he needed to. It became clear to him why exactly he didn't like seeing other people in suffering, much like when Wave had been injured he grimaced, opening his mouth to give Reed his encouragement before finding something else to draw his attention away from the pain of this child. He figured he would try to help both Reed and himself divert attention.*

"Reed..." *He said almost admonishingly.* "What... in the Wyld have you done to my fathers knife?!" *He grinned, eyes glittering his mischief down at the boy.* "It was HUGE!"

*He shot a glance over at Tari, seeming almost afraid of herself at the same time as being elated. Then over at the newcomer, wanting to thank her personally for the timely save.*

*Reed sniffed a little, his tears now stopping from Lirimana's treatment. He reached back, retrieving the knife that Dal had given him, it was now small like when it was given to him* " This?.. I don't know what happened... it just grew... I am not sure I could do it again if I tried..."

* Wave, seeing that Reed was feeling better , now jumped back and to the side of Tari, walking into her anima banner, then stepping back when he felt it on him* " Tari... you are a late Dragon!... You see, all that training did pay off! I would hug you right now, but as you know, those animas hurt!" * He brushed a bit of water off his shoulder, then shook his arm, getting the circulation going to heat up the now numb limb*

* Ress sighed, then got to his feet, tossing his long white hair back so it could fall back into place like it always did. He smiled a little, nodding to the crew and bowing to them* " I am very proud of you all! We made an impossible situation happen.. it looks like together, we can do anything.... and not only that, it seems we have a new friend among us...." * He turned his gaze onto the new southern woman with the huge hammer, bowing to her* " I am The Emperor... Please, who are you?... and who was your friend on the back of that giant beatle?"

*the woman raised a brow at Dal's flickered gaze, not offended, but amused. She had been leaning against the side of the ship, but when Ress turned his attention to her she stood up straight so she wasn't being offensive in her nonchalance. She flashed a smile, her hazel eyes fixing on Ress* You mean The Righteous Devil? He's pretty much what the title says. As for me, my name is Saia, I came to pay a visit to your empire, Emperor Bo-Ki-Sa-Chi

* In the minds of all celestial Exalts, a Hazy movie played. One of a great warrior woman, dropping on the back of a Primordial, putting it in a headlock and crushing it until its Fetich soul popped and it died. Then another image of the same warrior standing among dragon-kings and a great glowing figure that blinded the eyes to look upon... then an image of the borders of northern creation being stretched and pulled out into the wyld, and the woman grabbing onto a mountain and pulling it back, pulling out a huge primordial along with the once lost creation.... and all the while, the figure wore a crown... the same crown that Ress now wore*

* Ress blinked as the Images left him, then grinned rather sheepishly* " Hello Saia.... and my name is Ress.... Bo-Ki-Sa-Chi is... well... The Solar I used to be. Well... what brings you here?... and why did you come with us and not your friend, this Righteous Devil?"

Ress? Well, then, I suppose I will have to update him on your new name *Saia chuckled a little, noticing the dawning (excuse the pun) recognition in their eyes. This happened to her more than she'd like to count* He's got his own agenda and told me I should bunk down in your empire for awhile since it was safe in the First Age and it's probably just as such now

*Lirimana looked over at Saia and this time visions sought her waking hours as well as being besieged by a furious blush. What's with beautiful women?!? She wasn't like Arachnia who just had that air and the looks, no she had to be confident and hot... As the visions ended she sighed inwardly. And apparently super-crazy awesome* Wow....

*Arachnia waited quietly until the slideshow was complete before she stood a bit closer to Ress* You are welcome to stay in Imperveress as long as you need. We'll find you a place when we return

*Dal bowed humbly at Ress' praise before being staggered a little as he was hit with the flashback, his eyes blinking rapidly for a moment before he relaxed and went with the ride.*

"It is rare that I can not summon up the words to express myself, but here I am, with nothing else to say but thank you... Your aid could not have come at a better time Saia." *He clasped his fist in his palm slowly and bowed graciously. He dared not offer her a hand to shake, should he leave some of his grime on her unnecessarily.*

* Kahn perked up at the images in her mind, and reviewing what this Saia person did when she appeared. Hopping to her feet, Kahn rushed to Saia's side and took her hands in hers, looking starry eyed at her, much like the meeting of Kahn and Arachnia* " Saia? I am Kahn... Are you from The East? you look like someone I knew! You are a Queen, right? I was really impressed how you handled yourself with those goblins back there.. you must be really strong to weild that hammer!"

* So it seemed that Kahn had a kind of hero worship thing with those she found strong or impressive. Strange, since Kahn herself was also strong and impressive*

*Saia smiled at Dal and gave him a nod* It was nothing, really. Righteous Devil stole some of my kills anyway *she laughed a little at that right as Kahn grabbed her hands and began to gush* I was from the East in my previous life, but now I'm from the South *the expression on her face was a mixture of amusement, bewilderment and flattered* It's good to meet you, Kahn, I can tell you are quite powerful on your own so I can see you know your stuff *she wasn't sure whether to extract her hands or just let the tiger-woman have her fun so she opted for the easier one and just let her hands stay where they were* Like I told your bald friend, it was nothing. Glad I could be useful. As for my hammer, I bet you could get along just fine with one that size *the southern woman looked over the rest of the group and nodded* So, what's next?

"...Queen?" *Like a shot out of the dark Dal suddenly had an idea who this woman was, Khan seemed to recognize her as a queen... from the east. Could this be the reincarnation of Queen Merela? He was once again staggered by the sheer magnitude of this possibility, mostly by Cho-Hi-Xo's own reverence for the Queen and his stories of her. He realized everyone else seemed to have a pretty good idea of who she was, but all the same he wasn't going to be the first to call her out on it. The flashback had quickly become much more insightful.*

"Well, if by any chance you are who I think you are... then our past incarnations share a place of Exaltation. Cho-Hi-Xo held boundless respect for you..."

*He realized he was perhaps overdoing it, and he stepped back with another bow, offering to let The Emperor fill her in. He would like nothing more than to find a river to jump in and lay around in the sun for the next few days recouperating.*

*at Dal's sudden burst of speech she turned to look at him, Saia's eyes glinting in light amusement* I know of him, Cho-Hi-Xo was very loyal, I'm afraid we weren't close, though. He had so much potential, I'm sure he made good use of it, though he had a strong Zenith mentor. I have to say I never really trusted him...

[Ress]

*The journey back, surprisingly, was smoother than the journey out, though with more cuts and bruises. With the Dragon-Kings safely secured in the cargo bay, the only regrets on anyones mind was not taking some of the first age vehicles along with them, but living in the past was left to ones past incarnations.

For the trip, the volcano god stayed dematerialized, perhaps the weight of being a jobless god got to him.

It did not take Reed long to get over being injured and return to his normal, hyper self.

Kahn spent the rest of the time centering herself and practicing her martial arts style, trying to justify her retreating from both this skirmish and from Walker.

Not much was seen of Wave and Tari, but every so often, one could hear banging from inside their room.. but knowing those two, it could either be their sparring or bedroom activity.

Glass and Bright could be found among the crystals in the cargo bay, throwing wooden batons at each-other and sneaking among the cargo... a game of 'assassination' as they called it

Ress aided in the piloting of the ship, all the while pondering over the state of his empire and the possibilities of hidden pocket prefectures that might pepper the area around Imperveress... but most of all, Ress mused to himself about how to handle the monsters that lurk in the scavenger lands.

When the ship lowered to enter the empire, anyone near a window would see the two robed and shaven headed monks bowed at the entrance of the eastern manse... Immaculate Dragon-blooded monks.

Less than an hour later, the ship lowered down onto the sky port and powered down. Leaving the crew to unload their refugees and continue their command of this young yet powerful empire*

[Arachnia of the Hour]

*While the others picked up their own activities Arachnia spent her free time while Ress was piloting and doing his own things making sure that things ran smoothly. She made sure to take Saia aside and gather information on their newest arrival while her husband was busy, otherwise she studied in her quarters*


*Jakisi spent most of her time with Reed, but took some time to talk with the volcano god. Other times she was practicing speeches in her mirror or sitting quietly and studying the interactions of the others, sometimes giving a nod as she made a mental note*

[Terrestrial]

*Mabija spent most of his time sparring with shadow-foes and making sure he pushed himself as much as possible. Almost taking such a huge blow from Filial Wisdom had bothered him and he took part of the trip to watch himself go through the moves and motions in front of a mirror, trying to find the flaws and fix them. Sometimes he'd hang out with the kids, training Reed in swordplay and finding that he was enjoying their company*