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Part 49c: The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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There is a sensation of pulling, familiar to those who know Trumps, and
Aaron finds himself, along with his companions, in a new place,
grasping the metal gauntletted hand of the Warrior in Jet and
Gold. Clad from head to toe in armour. the warrior's features are
completely hidden.
It's a military encampment. A busy one, with many troops moving
in all directions. Not all the troops are wholly human.
Tents and campfires are everywhere, and the troops are dragging
equipment about, and working on constructing engines of war from
prepared sections of wood and metal. The sound of hammers ringing
on steel carries across the battlefield, cutting through the shouted
orders.
Somebody is preparing for war.
Nearby, there is a familiar howling. Two blade Archons, the danioti,
lay on the ground, struggling to spin, while a group of men armed with
short metal rods use some sort of shimmering beams to pin them down,
pushing them into the dirt.
The warrior releases Aaron's hand and turns to call out to the men trapping the Archons, in a commanding voice, "Careful now! Don't let them slip loose! They're too valuable to us." Then turning to Aaron again, "They
were bastards to catch, and we haven't dome questioning them yet.
Please forgive the mask, but my advisors say that I should not reveal
my face, out here in the open. The enemy has the means to watch
from a great distance."
A gesture towards the largest of the tents, "Will you and your group join me for refreshments?"
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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"...yes." Aaron agreed reluctantly, getting a good long look at the
imprisoned Archons. Two of them, captured. Quite a feat. Not
impossible, but quite tough to accomplish nonetheless.
Curious, indeed.
Glancing at Luke and Chance, Aaron raised an eyebrow.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Chance looked around the camp dully. Military camps had no appeal to
him, and he hoped he had not just been drafted. If he had, they would
be surprised at how quickly he would become AWOL. The imprisoned
Archons drew his attention the most. As a habit and matter of
profession, Chance focused on stories. Stories were a collage of
character, motivation, setting and so on. Two trapped Archons meant a
story was there, but what was it? Where did they come from? Had the
Archons stumbled onto the camp? Had they been brought back by some kind
of recon team? It seemed a little coincidental that they would be here,
seemingly on display, just as they arrived. If one were suspicious, it
could seem a little calculated. He definitely wasn't the paranoid kind,
but this situation already reeked of trap. A bit of contrivance only
added to that feeling.
Chance liked a good show, whether its intent was for good or evil. As
such, he brought his hands up and began clapping, smiling
appreciatively. "Good show," he remarked to their host. "I'm curious how you came to capture these two prisoners. Would you tell us?"
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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Clad, head to toe, in black and gold armour, with the face of a gorgon
emblazoned on the breastplate, the Warrior is tall. Taller than
many of the troops in the camp, who appear to be of many disparate
races and cultures, judging by their equipment, All are armed,
except their leader, who despite being fully armoured, carries no
weapon.
"This way, please." Their host moves with a simple grace,
efficient and smooth, even in the armour, heading for a large, pavilion
set in the centre of the encampment.
"We can talk more freely inside." The eyes, turn up, to regard the sky, then drop back to meet Chance's own. "Leonardo did not describe you to me, so you'll have to forgive me if I do not know your name."
"The Archons were captured near here, just a few days ago.
Something had disturbed them, damaged them too, it seems. They
were injured, dazed, slow, though still able to put down several of my
troops when they resisted our initial attempts at capture. Their
blades were charred, scorched and twisted, as if exposed to great heat,
and they were relatively weak. Originally I had three, but these
two turned on the third and used its parts to repair themselves.
We had to move them yesterday, from the river bank over yonder.
We discovered that, what we thought were displays of rage, digging into
the ground and scattering stones and sand about, was actually them
using the sand and pebbles to polish themselves back to their full
deadliness"
"Now I keep them pinned with a spell of magnetic force. I don't
want these to die until I have completed my questions. They are
members of Harbonah's faction, damaged when somebody attacked the world
where they were stationed. I suspect they may have knowledge of
this General that Harbonah has recruited."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
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Luke bowed, preferring to keep silent. Aaron was in the lead,
here - better to let him handle the opening discussion. While he
did, he and Chance could do what they did best. Apparantly Chance
had already begun; with bridges built, the man was asking questions,
and doing a fine job of that. Keeping the Warrior talking was
smart - if it were a trap, it was more likely something would tumble
out.
Immediately he went about his own business. It wasn't hard to see
the how's and why's around them, not with his 'vision'. The
'Warrior' was an irritating blank spot, though.
A bridging of his own was formed, offered, more temporary than that connected by Berd. Chance...Aaron.
The spells on the Archons are quite real. The people using them
appear to be users of the Broken Pattern from different worlds.
While I'm of the suspicious set, aren't Archons destroying the Broken
Pattern on many worlds? Is that not a part of their modus
operendi? If so, how would they have still-living sorcerers of
the Broken Pattern among them?
The Warrior, though, is using some kind of psychic shielding. Not
a cloaking; this one is greater than that. It seems to be some
kind of absolute barrier. I don't know how he contacted you with
the Trump, Aaron. Interesting.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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"Fascinating," Chance says as he turns to follow the Warrior. Luke's comments added some legitimacy to the issue, which put him more at ease. "The Archons are fascinating creatures. Do we have any idea what they eat or breathe? All creatures have to have sustenance."
He didn't know much of this Broken Patter that Luke mentioned. He'd
heard of patterns and Amber in passing, but had little overal concept
of what that all meant. He preferred to keep distance from such things
while wandering the worlds.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"That," the Warrior replies, "is unknown." He coughs out a deep, echoing chuckle. "Truthfully,
I don't have the faintest idea. So many of the Archons' ways are
mysteries that I'm damned pleased to have some prisoners. Better
yet, some people who have fought these bastards for some time,
now. I have to admit, I hadn't thought toward eating and
drinking. Maybe it's good to have a scientific mind assisting in
their study."
His helm turns to Chance. "Do you have a name, Sir, or a title? And your silent friend?" Now he 'looks' at Luke. "Leonardo described a number of companions, but I don't see any of them here; you two are completely unfamiliar to me."
One gauntleted hand reaches to his belt, where sits a small,
rectangular image. He holds it up; lo and behold, it has a
picture of Aaron, one-handed and one-eyed, seated on a rock.
There is a sword in his hand that gives off thin wisps of blue
mist. He looks tired, and the colours of autumn are in his
remaining eye, echoing the leaves on the trees of the forest to his
back.
"I received this from Leonardo before he died."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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"Sorry," Chance smiles. "I guess I've come to expect
omniscience from too many, these days. I'm Chance, and I'm not a
scientific mind. Just a curious one."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
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"Luke," the man replied shortly. He
studied the Archons intently, frowning, and one of his fingers twitched
briefly. Then he shook his head and continued after the
others. "I fear I just missed Leonardo." His smile was sharp, razor-edged, and he studied the Trump for long moments. "Well, Aaron, it looks like there's been an improvement in your looks, recently. I hope you didn't get that done for me."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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Aaron frowned at the image on the Trump.
"Yes, that's... certainly old." he responded to Luke's jest, though he
was somewhat saddened to note that it belonged to Leonardo - despite
how little he had liked the man, there was yet another possible ally
gone.
To the Warrior he looked then, nodding slightly.
"Yes, the number of allies we have is... random, at best. Some come and
go, some stay, some die." Aaron shrugged. "That's the way of things, at
least at the moment."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Chance. Luke." The Warrior nods to each man in turn. "Omniscience
isn't my bulwark; I knew someone once who pretended to it, but failed
when it counted. I try to avoid such claims, myself."
His helm orients on Aaron as they continue toward the pavillion ahead, and nods. "The
way of things. Allies fall away, dragged by hooks of personal
issues, of injury, and by the barbed thorn of death. And we shrug
them off, don't we." The armored shoulders move, copying Aaron. "'The way of things'."
"Aaron of San Anyn, Chance, Luke - welcome to the Army of the End of Time."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Ilsefranvir
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"Aaron, I thi-"
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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A sudden movement, and a flicker of light as the magic pinning the
Archons simply dies. Two wheels of gleaming metal scream up from
the dirt, scattering soil and grass and small stones into the air as
they spin faster and faster. They dart outwards, away from each
other, then veer in, a pincer movement which brings them rushing in
towards the Warrior, standing, still unarmed in their path.
All around the camp, men and not-men are grabbing for weapons... bows
and arbelests mainly, and a host of assorted melee weapons.
The two Archons spin down towards the Warrior, spinning fast, their blades howling as they cut through the air...
The soldiers in the camp aim their weapons, and Aaron, Luke and Chance are in the firing line of most, if not all, of them...
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
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Luke jerked, twisting to glance around. He dropped automatically
into a half-crouch, his fingers curling into claws as his mind reached...and
found nothing, suddenly. Again. He bit back a curse as the
familiar feeling settled over him, washing away his connection to the
world around him, and suddenly knew from where the danger would
come. The magic! The lean
man spun to face the two Archons. They were already moving toward
their captor. And Luke, weaponless in more ways than one, had no
means to stop them.
That's it. I'm going to find myself a nice, big axe.
Swords were for nobility, and Luke had led a rebellion against such a
long, long time ago. He'd lost his sword and had no real desire
to regain it. Right now, though, all he could wonder is from
where the main attack would come. The skies above? Over the
distant hills? Archons were swift - the two blurring toward the
Warrior were proof of that.
The soldiers were responding with remarkable alacrity...unfortunately, with the way the Archons were moving, it meant he was in the line of fire. And those arbalests - seige weapons,
obviously made to damage creatures who could shrug off simple
arrows. Their bolts would tear through his now-vulnerable fana.
With an oath for the Broken God's power-deadening effect, Luke dropped prone.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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He heard Arianne begin speaking, and felt a familiar tingle that
usually screamed "Danger!!"... but it all died, swiftly, suddenly. His
contact with outside forces, strengths that were so common to him that
he practically ignored them, vanished.
Then the Archons began to move, and men and weapons pointed towards them, almost at them. It was so absurdly typical of Aaron's path in life, that he almost started laughing. Instead, he spoke his mind.
"Oh, shit."
Aaron immediately grabbed at Chance, following Luke's lead and yanking
the man down, out of the line of fire along with them. He didn't
unsheathe Ilse, she would be more than useless.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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The two Archons spin to a halt, hovering near the masked Warrior, one
to each side of him. They draw in thir blades, into tighter
orbits, until both are about ten feet in diameter, spinning fast enough
to cause a low whistling in the air. They speak to each other in
loud voices, which have resonate with clashing metallic tones.
+ AN ODDITY. THAT ONE IS THE ONE SHOWN IN
THE IMAGE, AND YET HE IS DIFFERENT. MORE COMPLETE. IS THAT
A FUNCTION OF AGE? DO HUMANS GROW ADDITIONAL LIMBS WITH AGE? +
+ OR HAS IT CONSUMED ANOTHER TO GROW MORE
COMPLEX, OR... WAIT... IT HAS CONSUMED ANOTHER TO REPAIR ITSELF?
IS THAT A CAPABILITY OF ALL HUMANS, OR JUST THIS ONE? +
+ IF THAT IS THE CASE, THEN PERHAPS WE
WILL BE PERMITTED TO DAMAGE IT OURSELVES, SO THAT WE MAY OBSERVE THE
REPAIR PROCESS? IT IS SOMETHING WE HAVE NOT SEEN. +
+ YES, THOSE WE HAVE DAMAGED PREVIOUSLY HAVE ALWAYS REMAINED DAMAGED. +
+ IT WOULD BE MORE ACCURATE TO SAY THAT THEY HAVE REMAINED DEAD. +
And then the air is filled with braying, screeching laughter.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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The Warrior stands ready as the two approach and, reaching into the air, calls out a single word. "Sword!.
At the edge of the crowd of people, a brilliant demonform burning with
emerald flames snatches a weapon from the sheath of a nearby man and
tosses it - a plain, soldier's blade. It spins through an arc for
dozens of yards, the landing rudely interrupted as the Warrior snaps it
from the air like a tossed ball and sweeps it down to hang at his side.
But when the Archons move to flank him, rather than attack, he turns back to face the trio lying on the ground. "Left...Right...more politeness with our guests, if you would. There will be no 'disarming' them...yet."
He bows to Aaron and company. "You must have suspected,
of course, though I'm sure you'll forgive my penchant for the
dramatic. A hobby of mine, one might say, as is the cutting humor
of my aides." A glance is sent to the two danioti hovering beside him. "I hope the two of you weren't too put out by that little moment of inactivity. It must have been a trifle uncomfortable."
Then his voice, echoing within the helm, grows more serious. "Aaron
of San Anyn, Luke, Chance - under the power of the Broken God, your
arcane abilities are rendered null. You are surrounded, and stand
no chance - not against my army, not against my associates, and not
against myself. I will accept your surrender, if you give
it. Otherwise..." Metal shifts as the Warrior shrugs.
"Up to you, really. I'm a little disappointed that there's only three of you, but I'll take what I can net."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
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Luke stared at the scene while their ambusher spoke, then put his face
in his palm. His tone fell to that of a whisper. "The
best trap is the one we think we are prepared for, then turns out to
have an unexpected twist. Aaron, Chance. If either of you
see an opening to make a break, any time, do it. Don't stop to
worry about me. Sooner or later they'll make a mistake and I'll
be gone.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Chance saw this coming, of course- pretty much like it had played out-
from the moment he had seen the Archons here. He had hoped it wasn't
true. He had hoped that Aaron had more to go than it seemed in trusting
this person. Luke's comments had given him some hope, too. For a
moment, it had all seemed authentic.
But like he had observed upon arrival, it all seemed a bit too contrived.
He was terrified, but it didn't surprise him. Fortunately, having spent
years in a rogues gallery of organized (and sometimes disorganized)
crime organizations and families, terror was not unfamiliar to him. The
last thing he would do is react with terror, as hopeless as the
situation seemed, now.
Above all the things he had been in past lives, all the roles he had
assumed, he was an entertainer. He was a musician above all else, but
his repertoire was vast. He could dance, do acrobatics, sleight of
hand, tell stories, impromptu rhymes and more. Second to music was his
ability to act- he could act calm and casual, even while terrified.
Moreover, he had played cards with some of the most vicious sharks in
the universe; he had one hell of a poker face.
Without a ruffle in his demeanor, he brings his hands up and begins to
applaud, slowly. This was the second time he had done so since
arriving. The first time, he had said 'good show' meaning something
else, but suspecting it really was just a show. Now that it was shown
to be a show, he played, gambled, on that previous statement.
"Well played," he says with a smug grin and a casual,
unperturbed stance. The stance was as calculated as the applause and
the words and tone he chose. It was a performance. This world was a
stage. All of them, even Luke and Chance, were the audience.
"Brilliant, in fact," he adds. "Honestly, I expected a little
more of you. I don't mean to criticize, but it did all seem a bit
contrived from the beginning. The timing… the enslaved archons... I
mean, really.... As we suspected, you must think us fools. In the first
place, to think we would come here not expecting a trap is moronic.
Seriously, mate, do you think we didn't plan for exactly this? Well, to
be perfectly blunt, JG, we're the ones who are disappointed with you.
There is only three of us, for a very good reason. And it's a reason
you should be considering very carefully right now. Too bad omniscience
isn't your bulwark- but thanks for admitting that. I mean, really good
of you. 'Tis why I'm here. To Be the wildcard."
The broken god thing was the real problem. The last time it had been a
piece of bone. He had heard enough from Luke to get the idea.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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The two danioti spin more quickly at Chance's words, their blades glittering.
Finally there is a metallic snarl, and one swings out, howling down
toward the musician, blades shimmering in the light. The other
quivers, makes to follow.
"Stop!"
The wheel halts, the air screaming around its spinning blades. Then it slowly floats back to the Warrior's side.
"Another lesson, Left. Mockery is cheap, easy, and the last
resort of fools. Remember that, and do not let it control you."
+ I HEAR, GENERAL. +
The helm swings back toward Chance. "Though this one is no fool, I think. But he considers us to be such." The archon dips in embarassment, and blades clash for an instant as the other one gives it a 'nudge'. "Desist. Well, Chance, I did say that I thought you'd figure it for a trap. The 'captured' danioti were only meant to give you pause - once the Broken God entered the picture, most of your plans would no doubt become moot." The helmet cants slightly. "And
here I am explaining my nefarious plot...let's cut to the chase.
You realize that given the circumstance, I'm going to have to see your
hand." The sword makes a slight motion and a hundred iron-tipped boilts are carefully aimed.
"I must admit, if you're bluffing, you're a shark. But I don't
have a choice now except to follow through. A very important
thing, following through. I've always disliked wishy-washy
people."
The other gauntleted hand reaches behind into the central hub of an Archon (to the right) and vanishes, up to the wrist.
"Call," the Warrior says quietly, voice vibrating with tension.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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The tension grows more intense, and the howling of the Archons as they
spin slides up the scale, sounding increasingly like nails being
dragged down a blackboard as the two spin faster...
+ IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HIS HAND, I COULD FETCH IT CLOSER, GENERAL? I WOULD LIKE TO SEE IT TOO. +
+ RIGHT HAS A KEEN INTEREST IN ANATOMY.
VERY KEEN... IN FACT THE KEENNESS OF HIS INTEREST IN ANATOMY IS MATCHED
ONLY BY THE KEENNESS OF HIS EDGES! +
And the air fills again with metallic laughter.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Interesting. Chance's eyes narrow as he watches the Archons move
towards him. He tried not to react the quickening of his pulse, the
cold shiver that ran through him, screaming for him to react. Just part
of the game, he thinks. He visualizes the cards in front of him.
"Hey, hey," Chance snaps, his arm swivels around to point at an officer nearby. " Show some honor. No marked cards, my friend; call that one off."
"Interesting, how your puppies react. You really should train them some more, or they might slip and give something away... general.
So, it really does revolve around you, does it? I wonder what would
make the archons kowtow to one such as you. You are correct- mockery,
actually, is cheap. However, I've found it is both a weapon and a
shield. Pathetic, isn't it, that they fell for such gimmicks, I'd say--
but then pathetic might actually be why they are here." He smiles knowingly, but it slips quickly into something more serious, contemplative. "Now,
forgive me, but I must wonder if they follow blindly, or if they've
actually tested you? Do they know they need to serve you? It is a bit
daunting to think you might actually be powerful enough to hold both of
them at bay. I mean, if they were to both destroy you then they could
claim the glory for our 'capture'-- if you like to call it
that. Think of the honor it would earn them. I mean, they could just
say you, their great general, was fatally struck down in the struggle.
Wow... yes, you must be some piece of work-- that, or they are, as we
both said, pathetic."
He glances at the general. "I'm still waiting for that one to
be removed from my presence, by the way. You'll get... one of my
cards... when he leaves. The rest come with a price, but we can discuss
that later."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
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Luke slowly pushes himself up into a seated position, and studies the
situation carefully. Arbelasts. Check. Many people
carrying weapons. Check. Two Archons. Check.
One armored warrior of unknown potential. Check.
I hope something comes of Chance's work, because at the moment I'm good for absolutely nothing.
The only ranged skill he possesses happens to be 'annoy all within
hearing', and that one doesn't seem appropriate at the moment.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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Every concievable thing had been planned for... yet Aaron had to agree with Chance, it was certainly an obvious trap.
Slowly, very slowly, Aaron rose and rested on his knees. He was in the
presence of enemies, mortal enemies of astonishing power. It was
surprising to him that he felt no fear... but he figured that was more
a result of his seemingly continuous exhaustion with life.
"I've gained an eye and a hand," he said quietly. "Yet it seems I still
have no common sense." Aaron sighed, shaking his head. "So be it."
Absently, silently, he wondered if his nose would get broken again.
Raising his eyes to their captors, Aaron could honestly think of no way
out. There was no obvious exit. Slowly, Aaron removed Ilsefranvir from
his back, wrapping the belted sheath around itself and laying it before
his knees.
"Something tells me, Chance, that we're in no position to be
bargaining." Aaron shook his head, the sarcasm in his voice foreign and
obvious. He ran one hand through his hair, looking up at the Warror and
his Archon servants.
"You want us to surrender. You have us at an overwhelming advantage.
Since we're not dead already... something tells me you have plans for
us. Torture, perhaps? Mental destruction, similar to what the Archons
have done to old friends of mine?" His eyes narrowed, colors flickering
madly. "...or perhaps something else?"
Shoulders sagging, Aaron sighed again. "Or perhaps it doesn't matter.
If you like... you can let my two friends go back, and I can stick
around here with you, to do with as you wish. I am, after all, one of
the more... experienced members of this little quest."
Aaron hoped that they payed little attention to Luke, despite the fact
that their powers were denied them. Luke... Aaron figured Luke was
older than anyone he'd ever encountered before. If they tortured him,
what secrets would they discover?
"I have... seen many things." he said, his voice distant and tired.
"Things that would make even an Archon grind to a halt with fear."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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The officer in question, at whom Chance points, blinks several times
and manages to get his face into a semblance of normality as the
Warrior slowly turns in his direction. "David? What's he on about?"
"Nothing, General," the officer says, shaking his head, trying to look innocent.
There is a long pause. "Best that it be just that," the Warrior notes, turning back toward Chance. As he does, the
officer shoots an ugly glare at his back, and Chance reads
ill-disguised hatred in the look. The man is a soldier - unlike
Chance, he finds it more difficult to hide his true feelings, and
obviously there are some people in this army who don't like their
leader.
"I don't dismiss any of my officers on the word of a prisoner," the Warrior states coldly. He waves his hand, his free hand, taken out from within the Archon's body now. "You
had me worried for a long moment, there. Very worried. But
you're still trying to sow dissention, rather than play your
cards. And you accuse me of being obvious?" The great helm shakes. "Pot...kettle. Kettle...pot."
There is a harsh snicker from one of the Archons, but it is
razor-edged, if one might pardon the pun. They are evidently
furious, dipping and dancing in the air at Chance's words.
"But I thank you for showing me the weapon you're keeping
hidden. It's right there, behind your eyes. You're a
thinker - that does make you dangerous, something the Broken God can't
steal. I think." There's still a hint of uncertainty in the echoing voice. "That's
not to say you don't have something squirrelled away up your sleeve, of
course...I'm just a little more willing to 'take a chance'."
His gaze (apparantly) sweeps across Luke, then locks on Aaron. "The
God Odin gained wisdom through the loss of an eye...perhaps you should
have left yours gone. But no warrior can avoid every trap, every
time." The great armor rolls in another shrug. "As
for what will be done with you, I'm afraid you have no options.
No bargaining chips. This is an unconditional surrender."
For a moment, there is a hint of sorrow in the Warrior's voice, but it
quickly vanishes, and he begins to walk toward the trio, the Archons
maintaining their distance.
He stops before Aaron, and there is a curious sense of kinship for a moment. "'Things that would make even an Archon grind to a halt with fear.'" His voice is quiet within the helm, contemplative. Faraway.
"Yes."
His free hand reaches out. "The sword, if you would?"
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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He felt fire stir inside, and knew that if the man wasn't encased in
such an armored form, he would have cleaved the extened arm off at the
elbow. Yet... what point would that serve, except to doom them all?
Yet, the sword... to give her up...
There was no reluctance in the movement as he lifted the sheathed
weapon and handed it to their captor. Aaron actually felt no regrets at
the movement, though it wasn't for lack of them.
He was beginning to regret... everything.
"Take it. Take it all, for all I care anymore." he said quietly. "Let those two go, at least."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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The two Archons move closer together, though with their voices it is hardly necessary.
+ AND THIS IS THEIR LEADER? WE WERE TOLD HE WOULD BE SO MUCH STRONGER THAN THIS. +
+ PERHAPS THE GENERAL MISREMEMBERED? OR THIS ONE HAS BECOME WEAKER. +
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Misremembered? Chance took in a great breath at Aaron's display.
It was not helping his ploy too much. Sadly, he would have to distance
himself from the man. Every man for himself, Chance thought. "He does seem to be a bit of a wet noodle, doesn't he?" Chance mused. "Being
new to the group, I rather expected more of him. I wonder-- would you
allow me to hit him? I've heard breaking his nose tends to fire him up
a bit. It might be entertaining, and... I'd feel a little better about
things, all considered." Chance shrugs and smiles playfully.
Misremembered? What an odd choice of word, Chance pondered. Now
that he thought on it, JG had used the word remembered as well. Could
the irregulars have met him at some point on their journey? Sadly, he
had only the detailed recounting of Luke to guide lay tracks upon.
"Yes, well, the weapon was placed at the forefront of my mind, on
the Ace card if you will, so I could hide my other cards behind it.
With David there trying to read my mind-- and now glaring so spitefully
at you, I might add-- I had to do a little mental dancing. Something
must be given for something else to be hidden. Anyway, Davie's glare
gives me pause to ponder, personally." Again, the playful smile. "See,
we first heard of you from... well, you... through the noodle. As it
seems, suddenly there is this general running around. Oddly enough,
you're not one of them. Appearances can be deceiving, of course, but I
see no reason why an Archon would deign to look like a human of any
kind. This, combined with Dave's hateful scowl there, makes me think
you rose to power rather suddenly-- truly out of nowhere. Is that
right, David?" He gives the officer a questioning look, scrutinizing for any twinge of unwilling acknowledgement.
And you remember Aaron being the leader, eh? That might explain the mask.
"Well, I'd love to hear how you did that. I mean, we could have
infiltrated their structure using such a brilliant technique. I mean,
you could be any sort of spy trying to get a foothold, I would say.
Perhaps, that is what David's thinking right now-- or should be? C'mon,
David, let's hear from you. What's going through that head of yours,
old chap?" Again, he studied the general's reaction.
As always, he was starting to enjoy the game. Too bad he was going to die soon.
"Well, if I were an idealist, I might try to turn your generals
against you. I've managed to learn they despise you, which is well
enough to tuck away for now. So, you have my ace, which I planned to
reveal from the start. Its the rest of the cards, the players, that I
have hidden up my sleeve you should be interested in, now. I mean,
knowing we're aware of the weapon is one thing. Knowing who has their
fingers on the trigger is entirely another, isn't it? Oh, it is
delicious. You'll be oh so surprised, it's a new player in the game."
He paused, glancing around the camp to see how others were reacting.
"There are always conditions, even an unconditional surrender is
something of a condition. Here is my deal. Tell me a proper name for
yourself and remove the mask, and I'll agree to show you the rest of
the straight. Oh, I should mention there is something of a ticking bomb
in play-- certain players in the game need to hear from me by a certain
time or else, that sort of thing."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior's hand twitches as Aaron holds out the sword, and the body
language bespeaks surprise. The helm turns away to the other two
as Chance speaks, then back to Aaron, almost as though the man within
the armour is confused. "Is that the end of it, Aaron of San Anyn?"
The question is quiet, and a hint of sorrow lies in the voice.
The free hand snaps in the air, a savage cut to silence the
Archons. "Is the long cast finally over for you?" he whispers. The mailed gauntlet reaches out, closes around Ilsefravnir, removing it from his grip to - carefully - set it down upon the grass, just out of Aaron's reach.
Then the man slowly straightens, his armor ringing musically. The
sword comes up, the tip is aimed directly at Chance. "Show some respect, curse you," the warrior grates. "By
all means heap the vitriol atop me. But insult Aaron of San Anyn
again and I shall have one of my men silence you with a quarrel.
For years this man has travelled the worlds in his war against the
Seraphim. He has become a deep thorn in their side. A
mistake in weariness, and you fall upon him like a jackal?" Disgust laces the Warrior's tone.
"As to my commanders' and officers' hatred of me...." The Warrior seems to compose himself. "Well, how about that? I'm surrounded by traitors, it seems. The only smart thing to do would be to kill you all!"
There is quiet laughter from the circle. Quiet, genuine
laughter. Even some of the common soldiers, the ones not toting
arbalests, have grins on their faces. But the ones behind the
bows remain rock-steady, narrow-eyed.
"So, you think David despises me because I 'shot up the ranks', do you?" the Warrior asks in his ringing, parade-ground tones, and his head slowly turns to look directly at David. "Well, David? Do you think me undeserving? Do you think I'm a spy? Illuminate us, myself and Chance."
"General," David begins, his voice sullen and edged with fear, "You
know this man lies. I joined the army after you took command, because you took command. I don't know...this man is trying to poison you against -"
+ DAVID MCTAVISH, YOU ARE A SPY FOR MERIHIM, LORD OF PESTILENCE. THE GENERAL HAS KNOWN OF THIS FROM THE BEGINNING. +
David pales further.
+ 'IF THERE IS A HORNET IN THE ROOM, I WOULD
RATHER KNOW WHERE IT IS', HE SAID. BUT NOW YOU HAVE STUPIDLY
GIVEN YOUR GAME AWAY, AND WE ARE FORCED TO ACT. +
The officers around McTavish lose their amused smiles, and more than
one hand falls on a dagger-hilt. David looks around, finds no
friendly faces. He keeps his hands carefully away from his own
weapons. "General-"
"You may leave now, David." The Warrior inclines his head. "But not the camp. I'll want to talk with you later. Comprends-toi?"
The mailed hand rises in a gesture, and the crowd parts around the
disgraced officer...grudgingly. He makes his exit quickly, and
the Archons whine with frustration at his temporary escape.
"You're oh for two, now," the Warrior states calmly, his helm now toward Chance. "I
suppose I'll just have to muddle through despite your machiavellian
plots and fail-safe preparations. No doubt I'm walking right into
your trap. It's a risk I'll have to take." The sword tip, uncannily steady in its aim at Chance's heart to this point, twitches slightly. "I
don't deal with jackals. Drop your gear, surrender, and I'll
consider Aaron's request tonight. If for no other reason than to
get you out of earshot."
"I'm curious about your secrets, but I'm starting to think it would be
impossible to separate the truths from the lies. Pointless.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
-----------------------------------------------------------
Luke kept to his crouch while the others spoke and the drama swirled
around him. He was studying. The composition of the army
was interesting - beings from many worlds made up the forces. The
Archons were another curious issue - they were both of the bladed sort,
which made them low on the totem pole. Where did this 'General'
stand? Above them? Appearances could be deceiving, as
Chance had hinted.
Excellent, Chance...but careful, now.
Then there was the Warrior. Luke tensed at the threat, preparing
to spring. There wasn't much he could do, weakened like this, but
he might be able to give his friend a second...chance. Then
something caught his attention, and he narrowed his eyes. It's not what he's saying, it's how he's saying it.
And there, one more time. Luke had it now, and kept the
satisfaction off his face. Chance was doing extraordinarily
well. The information was flowing in - not simply his discovery,
but knowledge of the factions in the Archons, and other interesting
tidbits. But Luke wasn't certain how much longer it would be
before the Warrior simply got fed up and stabbed his friend, or ordered
him shot. That lapse proved it - the man was genuinely furious,
and dangerously close to doing something rash.
Chance danced on the razor's edge, as always. Luke hoped he'd know when to step back from the brink. Something I never figured out.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Oh, c'mon," Chance says with a slight shrug. "You've got to give me a point for David. I was pretty damn close given what I know about you guys. He forces a smile to follow. He might have lost some ground, but he felt he could gain it back.
"Your followers seem loyal. That's good to know. I like to know I'm
talking to a real leader, rather than just a good soldier who got
promoted too far. As for Aaron, you may know him better, but certainly,
you should recognize my attempt to fire him up a bit. I mean, I'm
feeling all alone here. Can you blame me for wanting a little backup,
if only in words? Think on it, JG. What would you have done? I'd wager
on you denying it, but I'd say we're not so different. What would you
be doing if you were in my shoes?"
He glanced down at his shoes. If only they were working right now, his
clothes. He would be glad to have something between himself and that
sword.
"You don't need to separate truth from lies; I'll happily tell you
all I know with a little cooperation. I see that your identity is
rather precious, now. That was a bit much to ask for. What do you say
we sit down and talk about it, general to minstrel? If you're nice,
I'll even play you a song."
He glances at the guitar on his back. "Oh, yes," he muses. "My
gear, right. It's hardly a weapon, though music can change the world, I
say. Since it avails me nothing, I'll give you my gear free of
negotiations or whining... but do be gentle with it. I've been down a
lot of roads with it." He carefully and slowly slings the guitar from his shoulder and sets it on the ground in front of him. "I'm afraid I have nothing else but my clothes, and you're not getting that off me without dinner and a lot of wine." He smiles and chuckles at his own joke- knowing he'd probably be the only one.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron's roiling eyes looked up to the warrior, his face flat and
lacking any emotion save an apparent exhaustion. Was giving up
Ilsefranvir a mistake? Perhaps... but Aaron wasn't thinking along those
lines.
He was, however, surprised. The Warrior was defending him, as if they
were old friends, as if they had known one another... or perhaps he had
just known of Aaron.
Aaron was honest with himself. He had no idea how he was going to get
out of this mess. Ilsefranvir didn't seem like any help at all, and it
would've gotten him in more trouble if he'd used it. Keeping it in his
possession would only have made their situation worse.
He stood, slowly, so as to not let their captors consider him a threat.
However, the extent to which they had already prepared themselves
proved that they considered them as just that.
Aaron remained silent for now, hoping to learn more of their situation.
He didn't think he knew this Warror... but stranger things had happened.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior stands silently while Chance speaks and the other two
listen. Gauntleted fingers drum on unearthly metal armor.
Behind him, the Archons dip and spin in the air.
+ I COULD DIVEST HIM OF HIS CLOTHING. +
+ COULD YOU GUARANTEE HIS CONDITION AFTER? +
+ NO. +
Again that strange, metallic laughter cuts the air from the two razored
wheels. The General slowly lowers his sword. "So. Changing tacks, are we? You're correct, actually...."
The armored form casually plants the sword-tip into the ground.
At that, many soldiers run forward onto the parade ground. Some
are the ones with the arbalests - they stop at least twenty feet
away. Others carry shackles - heavy ones. "....We are
more alike than some people might think. In certain ways.
No more braggadocio or insults, though. My patience is running
thin."
"Please, allow my people to bind your hands. In front of you - I want you to be comfortable." The armored form shrugs. "The
only truth with which I was concerned, minstrel, was whether or not you
held something in reserve that might cause me a bag of trouble.
As you hinted. Since I can't trust anything you say, I've decided
to simply assume you don't." He sweeps his gaze (presumably) over all three men.
"I would love to keep the three of you for a fine dinner and discuss
all of this in a civilized fashion. Truly. Perhaps even to
music. Regrettably, it isn't me who wants information
from you. Lord Harbonah was rather emphatic that the people who
burned away one of his people's worlds be turned over to him for
questioning."
+ LORD HARBONAH HAS NOT YET GROWN ACCUSTOMED TO
DEALING WITH YOUR KIND. IT IS LIKELY HE WILL KILL AT LEAST ONE OF
YOU BEFORE REALIZING THAT YOU CANNOT ANSWER QUESTIONS AFTER YOU
DIE. + The shrieking laugh again splits the air, but this time only one of the Archons is responsible.
The other one slips sideways after a moment and blades clash.
Sparks fly and an angry snarl rends the air to replace the laughter as
the two split apart. But the 'attacking' Archon does not back
down.
+ THINK OF WHAT YOU SAY, WOODEDGE. +
There comes a long moment of silence.
+ I APOLOGIZE, GENERAL + The creature sounds remarkably contrite.
"Think nothing of it, Right. Be at ease - I shall not take offence." The gauntleted fist relaxes. "Thank you, Left, but please - not on my account. I would not have the two of you at odd."
The two Archons bob in the air, and there is a faint whining noise from
one of them. Some form of communication, perhaps, between the two
creatures.
The General rolls his shoulders under the armor, then raises both hand helpless. "I
can promise you only a little hospitality during your stay and a swift
transport as soon as the means arrives. Rest assured, I will do
nothing to harm you, so long as we all have a little respect. If
you wish to speak I can join you for a short while, but I have an
astounding amount of business to take care of."[\
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
-----------------------------------------------------------
Luke's teeth set against the laughter, but he smiled, ever so
faintly. Not at the jokes. He had caught it again.
The first time it might have been coincidence. This confirmed
it. There. The shift. He's right - he and Chance do share something.
The Archons were interesting. It was the first time Luke had been
able to watch them in a more...social situation. He was surprised
at what he had found.
He didn't like that comment about being sent to Harbonah, though.
Not at all. Luke's smile vanished as he considered the
situation. How would they be transported? Was the Warrior so foolish as to release them with their power intact? They cannot keep us locked under the spell of the Broken God forever. Can they?
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance nods with a grim smile and sighs. "Suit yourself, JG. I was hoping we could reach some sort of agreement, but when the Vhuul arise they won't be taking time to sort the wheat from the chaff, as it were. They'll destroy this node,
as they call it, and everything in it. Think well on what that means,
for I know you're not an island. You have connections, insterests,
love... It will be the end of it all."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior stands stock still for a long moment, and all pretense of affability is gone from his posture. "You are incorrect, Sir. I fear this is only further proof you know me not at all." The Archons pull back a touch as the Warrior seems to shake himself under the armor. "You know me not at all," he repeats.
"This is the Army of the End of Time, Chance."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance cursed the armor. The man was too hard to read without a face.
That was probably the reason for it. Perhaps identity wasn't a concern
at all, but just practical paranoia. There was a piece of the puzzle
here, right below their noses, and they just needed to ferret it out.
"Don't I? I don't believe you. No man is an island, as they say.
Nah, that's rubbish. What I mean is, no man comes to a point where
they're bent on ending it all-- not just for himself, but for
everyone-- without some serious scaring and emotional damage of some
sort, JG. You didn't just leap out of the dust all armored and ready to
cry havoc. You have a past, and something in that past drove you to
this point. Now, I'm not so good as to start taking stabs at it- if I
were, I'd go for love and betrayal, those are classic- but don't try to
tell me you're here to end it all 'just because.' I'd really
hope the man who brought it all to an end was more in touch with
himself. You sure you don't want a song? You look like you could use
one. I'd even throw in a dance, free of charge."
And yet, it was such a terrible balancing act. If they got too close to
the truth, they'd be gutted. But what else was there to do?
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Your point?" the Warrior asks, amused. "Oh, certainly there are reasons. There are always reasons, aren't there? We all have reasons." This said with a wave over the parade ground.
+ REASONING IS A FUNCTION OF ALL LIVING CREATURES, AFTER ALL. +
+ YOU HAVE JUST REACHED A NEW HEIGHT IN POORLY ATTEMPTED HUMOR, RIGHT. +
+ I CONTINUE TO STRIVE FOR PERFECTION. +
More grating laughter fills the air, and there comes a clank as the General's palm slaps into his bent helm. "Some
days I wonder if it is simply to stop them from talking...I'm a
soldier, Chance. A soldier takes comfort in his orders, knowing
that he has made the choice to be what he is, to be where he is, and to
follow a particular flag. Especially if he believes in the flag. He raises both gauntlets, palm up. "The sun's getting low. Perhaps I'll have that song at dinner-time. Bind them." Then he stoops to sweep up Aaron's sword.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance does his best to ignore Left and Right. They were annoying, but
that was likely to be thier intent. The conversation was at an end.
"My point is that choice you mention a soldier making. Now, I grant
that I don't know much of a soldier's boots, but I can't help but
wonder what made you choose this flag, JG. I don't expect you to solve
that riddle, of course. I don't expect I'll have the chance, either. I
just think its a curiosity- one I'd like to explore- but I'll never be
able to. You seem like a nice person, all things considered. I'd say in
other circumstances, we could get along quite well- sit down and talk
about whatever intersts us, art, music, philosophy, human nature...
whatever. Too bad, that."
Chance shrugs. It is the end of the conversation. He's played his
cards, more or less, and has little left to say. He's sincere about
what he says, though, and he does regret not having more opportunity to
delve into the mystery that is JG.
"Well, I'm ready to see my accomodations. Just so you guys know, I'm alergic to feathers, so no down bedding please." He'll be lucky to get so much as bread and water. The thing about
prisoners is you should always treat them well. You never knew when the
situation would be reveresed. Not that Chance was a strong believer in
Karma, though. It was more a habit of knowing people.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Soldiers move forward then, three per visitor. To of each trio
hold back, just far enough to stay out of reach, while still being
close enough to strike with the spears they carry ready. The
third man moves nearer, carrying handcuffs to snap around the wrists of
his appointed prisoner. The crossbowmen move in concert with
them, ensuring that as many as possible have a clear line of fire.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
-----------------------------------------------------------
There was no point in fighting, at the moment. At least, that was
Luke's position. He had some interesting information, and there
would be better chances later on. Any attempt right now would
garner him a couple of dead bodies at his feet...likely followed by his
own.
It seemed a poor trade.
So Luke remained passive while the men clicked on the cuffs. In
this case, there was nothing to do but wait. And possibly discuss
things with Aaron and Chance the moment they were alone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron still saw no way out of their current situation. He had to be honest with himself, in that he didn't even really feel like putting up a fight.
All he really wanted right now, was the ability to just sit back and
take a long nap. He doubted he'd be able to, but he just didn't seem to
have any fight left in him.
So silently he watched as first his friends, then he were chained,
wondering absently if either of his groupmates would put up some sort
of a fight... and actually hoping they wouldn't.
It seemed hopeless... but Aaron wasn't ready to die just yet.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Not too tight, there. I chafe easy," Chance says as he lets
himself be bound. He could hold his own, but he isn't a fighter. Sure,
in a desperate situation, he could throw a punch when needed, and this
was desperate, but it was also hopeless. Given the firepower present,
he guessed they had expected a few more people. Though he had a few
tricks even in the presence of the Broken God, there was nothing but
suicide in resisting.
"Easy now, no tickling. I don't swing your way, friend."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
Once Luke is bound, the Warrior walks over to him and beckons for a man standing on the side of the parade ground. "I have something for you, Luke."
Something shimmers in the man's hand as he walks forward, and the
Warrior reaches out and grabs Luke's chin with his gauntleted
hand. "You see, I have, in fact, heard one or two
things about you - from Kaelyn, after she left your little group.
Not much of course, but enough to know that I should be a little more
careful."
The needle slides into Luke's arm without resistance. "Had that made up for the little dragon," the Warrior states calmly. "I think Luke should probably get a bigger dose, don't you?"
Once this is finished, he turns to Aaron and Chance. "Wise
decisions, wise. We'll talk, later. Over dinner. I
hope you don't think me rude, tying and running, but I have a few other
chores to do if I'm to get my allowence this week. Take them to
the tent, and be careful not to harm them." That last sentence is directed at the men around the bound trio.
Then the Warrior leans close to Aaron to whisper something.
Then he straightens. "Chance, if you wish I'll let you have your instrument back over dinner. I haven't heard live music in quite some time."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron's arms fell limply before him, chained and bound. The Warrior leaned in, and the two of them conversed for a small moment.
Straightening, Aaron silently awaited their captors next demand.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The troops lead the bound captives away, walking them slowly, so they
will not stumble or trip, even helping Luke to stay upright for the
short journey. The General, meanwhile, disappears amidst the
army, surrounded now that the interview is over, by numerous people
requesting his attention. One Archon follows him, while the other
loiters near the prisoners until they have reached their destination,
then it whirls away to join its counterpart with the human that they
seem oddly subservient to.
The tent is comfortably furnished, and spacious, with all the usual
firnishings: beds, chairs, tables, armed guards... None of the
guards are inside, although judging by shadows on the tent, and noises
drifting in from outside, there are quite a few outside, all around the
structure. The cuffs are left on, though the three men have their
hands bound in front of them for comfort.
Aaron and Chance seem to be alright, but Luke is out cold on one of the beds almost before being ushered inside...
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The General sits silently in the tent and stares at the various
requests laid out on the table, all awaiting signatures. When did
this army become a bureaucracy? Gauntlets off, the Warrior in Jet
and Gold picks up a slip of paper and studies its contents.
...the last batch of armour had ten breastplates of
inferior quality (an unacceptable proportion), can you authorize a
request for replacements?
The hand convulses, and the paper crumples.
Damn the man for what he said. Damn him to Udûn.
And damn that Chance, too.
The fist slams down hard enough to make the table shiver. Both
Archons, hovering behind the General, only two handspans in diameter
now, arc back and forth in the air in concern.
+ GENERAL, MAY WE ASSIST? +
"No." With the helm off, the voice no longer echoes. "I require some time alone."
Right immediately spirals out of the tent unquestioningly. Left, however, tarries a moment. + IT WAS...NOT WHAT YOU EXPECTED? +
"Left." The voice grinds the word as if between two boulders and
Left chooses to beat a strategic retreat, question unanswered.
The General sits back down. Hands steeple before a hard, angry
slash of a mouth, then one reaches out to press a button on the side of
a small electronic device.
The request flutters back to the table, creased and forgotten.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
-----------------------------------------------------------
Luke lay silently on the cot. Every now and then his body jerked,
as if fighting something. Every now and then he whispered a short
phrase or a word, seemingly at random. Some sounded like
names. Others, recriminations. Still more were
entreaties. Once, he hissed out a very familiar word.
"...armageddon..."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance sighs and settles himself on the bed. He doesn't bother talking
to either of the others. The conscious one seems about as lively as the
unconscious one. For a moment, he holds his hands up before him judging
the cuffs, pondering if he could slip them off or not. Among his many
entertainment and other less reputable exploits, he'd gotten quite good
at that sort of thing. A lot depended on how careful these guys are,
and the general seems one to demand perfection.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"You got that right," Chance mumbles in response to Luke's rambling.
He sighs and lets his hands drop back to his stomach as he lie on his
back on the bed. The general knew the group he was up against. It could
have happened many ways. It could have been a simple gathering of
intel, but it seemed much more intimate the way the general had lept to the defense of Aaron. What Chance had
calculated to get Aaron riled up, and perhaps help them in some way,
had instead revealed a bit of a puzzle.
No matter that, he had a job to do. He had little time to do it. He had
to concentrate on a way to get out of here. He could sympathize with
Aaron's emotions. Luke had given him a pretty detailed accounting of
the history of this conflict and Aaron had been in it from the root. He
could imagine he would have given up long before.
To aid in concentration, Chance sighs one final time and closes his
eyes. He purses his lips a bit and begins to whistle, experimentally.
The sound is long and low, melancholy and heavy, old. Yet, it picks up
with playfulness and wry twists. Still, the low, heavy tones pierce the
mood occasionally. It paints a picture old and young, serious and
playful, powerful and yet wistful. The song is ceaseless, often
retracing back to reinvent parts that didn't quite fit and adding new
elements. It's a dynamic tune, not set. It is only recognizable in its
tone, mood and structure, but not by specific notes.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
One would consider this line of thinking as... foolisness. The other, mere survivability. Perhaps, perhaps...
Aaron's mind was on a singular track, considering his every option
until he came to a final decision. That decision would change him,
but... he figured he was due for a change.
Sighing tiredly, Aaron resigned himself to his fate.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
It's impossible to say how long she had been standing there, quiet and still.
A thin faced woman, perhaps in her late forties. At one time she
might have been considered attractive, but the leather strip covering
her left eye. and the twisted scar, running from her hairline to the
left side of her jaw, passing beneath the cover, have spoiled that.
Now her features are set in a permanent scowl, beneath greying hair, cropped close to her scalp.
She stands in the entrance to the tent, wearing what looks to be a
uniform of some description; white trousers, tucked into knee-high
boots, a polished steel curaisse over a forest green tunic. A
shako is below her left arm, a red plume set at the hat's crown, and
there is a long sabre at her hip. The ammount of gold braid on
the tunic speaks of rank, and a high one at that.
She speaks, and her voice is odd, a strange, clipped accent, making her sound almost mechanical.
"So these are the enemies that think to defeat the greatest army ever assembled?"
"Yes, Commander. It seems they may have a trick or two at their
disposal, though it's hard to believe now, looking at them." replies
David, stepping into the tent behind her.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Actually," Chance interrupts his whistling and humming for a moment, to say. "I'm
jus their cheerleader. You can see by how depressed they are that they
need one, right? Good to see you again, Davie. How's tricks?" He smirks, and then closes his eyes once again to continue to humming and whistling.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
David ignores Chance's words, and continues with his own discussion,
"It is my own belief that the General knows less about them than we
have been led to understand, and probably overestimates the danger they
pose."
"Interesting. I suspect that you are
wrong. Their failure to avoid this obvious trap possibly has more
to do with total confidence in their ability to escape afterwards than
in any naiveté." the Commander steps forward, sparing Luke little more than a glance, "That
one is perhaps the leader, since the General clearly saw him as the
most dangerous and had him drugged. Very well, one of these
others will have to answer as best they can."
She moves to where she can look from Aaron to Chance, and David moves
in close behind her. "Neither looks promising, but that could be
a ploy."
"Agreed. But we must do the best we can. Doing otherwise is not an option."
"You two, why did you come here, walking into a trap? Are you here to assassinate the General?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron finally allowed them a sad, short laugh.
"Assassinate? An amusing notion, indeed."
Aaron shook his head, sighing.
"No, we didn't come here to kill him. Actually, I came
here because the General wanted to speak with me. These others," he
said, directing their attention to Chance and Luke. "Well, they just
happened to tag along, much to their disappointment."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
David stifles a laugh, "You would have us believe you walked into so
blatant a trap, without an ulterior motive?" He exchanges a look
with the woman that he called Commander, and suddenly they share a
fleeting look of worried disappointment.
"I don't believe that you would be capable of such
foolishness, given what we have been told of the danger you present to
the goal." the woman adds, scowling.
She steps away, staring at the side of the tent for a while, before turning back, "What
if I told you that there is a cabal of officers who would dearly love
to see the General dead, and that your arrival was taken as a sign by
some of those officers? What if I were to tell you that they
believed you had come as assassins, but been captured before you could
put your plan into operation?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Tired, Aaron sighed again. He waved his hand, almost dismissively, his bindings rattling as he did so.
"Look, I really don't give a shit anymore. The fact that you're telling me that there's dissension amongst your ranks already shows me you're
not exactly on the ball. I mean, why tell your enemy that your own
forces are weakened by a lack of trust?" He actually chuckled a bit.
"Not like I didn't notice that little outburst before anyway."
Aaron quite literally couldn't believe it, saying that was almost as
dumb as... well, him walking right into a trap. If he could sit down in
amused aggravation, he would have.
"Anyway, whatever. Let them take it as a sign. I really don't have the means or chutzpah to assassinate such a being as that General of yours, especially with
these two here. I really don't have any reason to kill the guy anyway."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"You don't even know the General. The General
is, underneath that armour, no harder to kill than any other
human. The only thing keeping him alive is that Harbonah thinks
he's wonderful."
"David, we're wasting our time here." She turns
then, moving towards the tent opening, leaving David standing inside
with the prisoners, his face a mask of shock and puzzlement.
"Commander, they were not this helpless when talking to the General, I assure you."
"Well, clearly their nerve didn't last any better
than their brains did. There might be a break later today, use
that to get a message to him, tell him that it was a false alarm." and then she's gone.
David turns towards Aaron, furious now, balling his right hand into a
fist, "Well, thanks for nothing." then he gestures towards Chance,
"That one, at least, showed that he had some guts!"
And then something seems to snap inside him, "Will you stop that
damnable whistling?" he almost screams at Chance, before heading for
the exit himself. But he doesn't step out... instead he pauses,
peering through the gap in the canvas, watching something, while
seeming to try and keep his presence hidden from whatever he is
observing.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Why interrogate prisoners openly, when you can discover their plans
through some trick. Having these show up and pretend to conspire with
the prisoners was a brilliant plan. He could see the general using such
tactics. The entire show with David during their meeting could have
been planned to set this up.
He stopped whistling. "You can't stop the music, man," Chance smiles broadly. Actually, they could tape his mouth. That would
stop it, but he liked the idea of agitating the man further. He could
only hope the whistling was agitating others, as well.
He sat up on the bed and looked more directly at David. "So," he says. "A
'secret cabal', eh? Sounds so dramatic. Why, that's just the thing to
raise our hopes and get us talking, isn't it? We should spill the beans
quickly, and get all the help we can while we can."
He chuckles and shakes his head. "We don't need your help,
David. The general, his army, you and your lady friend- you're all dead
already. We don't need your help, and our plan is working just
perfectly, thank you for your interest."
With a sly wink, he turns and lays flat on the bed again. He purses his
lips and picks up whistling, exactly where he left off- this time, a
little merrier for a moment. Merriment was definitely part of the
equation, though only an undertone to other deeper things.
If only it were true.
He hoped his attempt wouldn't chase David away, but taking him at face
value would be a terrible mistake. Trying to goad him into talking
more, might be of some value. If they were going to help, they needed
to prove their sincerity.
Under the armor, the general is as easy to kill as any human. That was good to know. That was a start.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
David regards Chance with not even barely-disguised contempt. "It
wasn't my idea to come and talk to you. I told Commander Sevatt
that you probably wouldn't be any help, but she insisted that she had
to speak to you."
Another glance out the entrance, then he steps back quickly, and an
instant later a shadow passes across the canvas. A ahadow that
resembles a wheel.
"Well, the General will send you away later, and Harbonah will treat you with far less respect than the General has."
"Meanwhile, you can keep yourself ammused with witty bon mot. Farewell."
He steps out, and is gone, hurrying away.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"You know, I really hope that wasn't our only chance to get out of this," Chance muses. "Because, if it was- you really blew it, Aaron."
C'mon, dammit, Aaron- show some life! I won't be able to do this alone.
As soon as they were out of this, he was going to have to apologize to
Aaron for the things he was saying. He didn't mean any of it. He hoped
it would eventually get Aaron moving, thinking, working with him. Of
course, now they were along he could resort to an actual conversation.
He hadn't that luxury in front of the general. However, now, he had
more important things to work on. There was no time for a conversation.
He went back to his whistling for a few moments, working on the song
that might be more than just a song- given the right opportunity. It
was a long shot, but other recent developments might combine to give
them an actual opportunity.
It occurred to him that David and Commander Sevatt- thanks for that bit
of info- might end up being useful allies- not just in the General's
army, but also in the overall scheme of things. The problem with that
was that the Archon's seemed to know of their scheming, already. He
guessed Harbonah knew many things. Chance was never strong in the
psychic department, but those who were could ferret out a lot of
things. Sure, Chance knew a few parlor tricks, but nothing that could
stand up against an entity of true power.
His whistling had developed a rhythm, now. It was becoming a
recognizable tune with body, soul and life. It was recognizable to any
who stopped to listen. It was small, yet larger than life. It was old,
yet young. It was whimsy, yet a millstone of seriousness. It was loss,
regret, wisdom, power, yearning, and restlessness all at once. It was
both alien and human. It was a childless father, a lost, erstwhile soul
yearning for a chance to lie down and rest and just cease for a moment.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron had sat down a while ago. Raising his eyes to Chance, he merely shrugged.
"Hey, you didn't have to come." he said, reaching behind him with manacled hands and scratching the back of his head.
"You're limiting yourself by believing that getting out of this is your
answer." he said, closing his eyes. "I have been around far, far too
long to believe that my end will be met at the hands of some uber
being." Sighing, Aaron opened his eyes again.
"No, more than likely, I will die a sad old man, relegated to tales of
woe and caution that fade in the mists of our many worlds." He looked
to Chance again then, one eyebrow raised.
"But I'm not dead yet."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Sad old man, eh?" He glances over at Aaron, appraising him for a moment. At least the man was talking. That was refreshing. "Sounds like the end is pretty near for you, then."
We wondered if escape as even on Aaron's radar, or if he was determined to meet this Harbonah, for some reason.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron did laugh, but there wasn't much humor in it.
"Old? Hey, if you think I'm old... well, let's just say that I've got alot of life left in me." Sighin, Aaron closed his eyes again.
"It's going to get bad for you and Luke. I can't guarantee that what
I'm going to do will save you. I'll do my best." He couldn't even
guarantee that he would survive.
He opened one eye.
"And Chance? Whatever happens, if you end up hating me, make sure you hate me for a very good reason. It may save your life."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Hate you? Don't worry, Aaron- Hate's a strong word, and I don't
hate anyone- currently. So, you mind sharing your little plan? I'd hate
for our plans to trip over each other, you know." At this, he whistles a quick bit from his tune, as if it had some meaning.
Amazing. He called the man a wet noodle and it meant nothing. Calling him old, on the other hand, did get a reaction out of him.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
-----------------------------------------------------------
Luke muttered something from the bed. "...different..."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"A plan,
eh?" Aaron chuckled again and shook his head. "Chance, I left all the
planning to people like Dorian and Cy..." Aaron suddenly exhaled and
snapped his mouth shut. He turned his face away, gazing silently at the
entrance to their current prison. Turmoil and pain shone in his
color-flickering gaze.
After a while, he spoke again.
"I'm not going to tell you anything about my future plans, Chance. My plans are my life. My life... is my own."
Aaron sighed, as he often did. He leaned his head back against the wall, his gaze still looking out through the doorway.
"Vanity, vanity. All is vanity. Nothing is new under the sun." To
Chance he glanced then, his golden-red and brown hued gaze falling and
flicking like the colors of a dying forest, its leaves succumbing to
eternal gravity.
"As I said, when it all comes down, Chance, hate me for a good reason."
he smirked. "Death really won't be worth meeting, otherwise."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
There is a rushing sound outside, and a familiar voice, which grates on
the nerves and jars the senses, speaking in an unfamiliar
language. Then one of the Archons simply moves through the wall,
fading through the canvas without cutting it. It hangs in the
air, and there is the impression that it is watching, even though it
seems to have no eyes.
Then it glides across to a table at one side of the tent, hovering partly above it, + WE ARE ABLE TO EXERCISE EXTREMELY PRECISE CONTROL OVER THE CONSTITUENT ELEMENTS OF THE FORM WE TAKE. +
As it spins, part of its edge blurs, there is a scraping sound, and
letters appear in the tabletop. Only an inch tall, they spell out
two words, very neatly, "Extremely precise."
+ YOU NOW HAVE A CHOICE: EITHER YOU WILL FOLLOW ME, OR ONE OF YOU WILL SERVE AS THE NEXT DEMONSTRATION OF PRECISION. +
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Luke
-----------------------------------------------------------
Perhaps it was the Archon's grating voice. But for whatever the
reason, Luke, deep in a drugged slumber, rolled over and let out a
small hiccough.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron yawned, then rose. He was tired, but not too much so. He kept his eyes open enough to pay attention to what was currently going on.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance stops his whistling for the final time, hoping his work was
complete. All he'd need was a couple seconds to execute his plan- a
couple seconds without the Dead God's influence. They might not even
notice what he did in that space.
Sadly, the general seemed a little to perfect to allow such a slip. It was all he could do.
He swung his feet off the bed and stood. It was pointless to jibe at the Archons. He already had a jibe. Hmm. Extremely Precise isn't a complete sentance. What good is precision if you have bad grammar? Chance always had a jibe. The quality may not be up to a good standard, but he always had one.
No, he wouldn't jibe the Archon, but he could poke. "Sure thing, errand-boy. Low Archon on the totem pole, being sent to fetch us, eh?" He didn't expect it to do much. The Archons might fight amongst themselves, but they weren't stupid. Still, it was a poke.
He stood foward, as if ready to follow.
The display had actually been quite something. He hadn't realized the
control they had over their form. It was somethign to be aware of.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
+ YOUR REMARK MIGHT BE CONSIDERED INSULTING... IF
NOT FOR THE FACT THAT YOU, YOURSELF, ARE CURRENTLY FAR LOWER ON THE
TOTEM POLE THAN I. +
It moves then, fast, rolling into a horizontal position and passing
through objects in the room as it expands, until it surrounds the two
men with a barrier of blurred, rapidly revolving metal.
+ PLEASE STEP FORWARD, OUT OF THE TENT, IF YOU
WOULD BE SO KIND. YOUR CAMPANION WILL BE LEFT HERE, UNDER GUARD,
SINCE HE IS NOT CAPABLE OF WALKING. IF YOU WOULD RATHER NOT COME
WITH ME, I CAN ARRANGE IT SO THAT YOU, TOO, ARE NOT CAPABLE OF WALKING?
+ There is a flicker, and the stream of metal seems to
bend for an instant, passing much closer to Chance, before reverting to
its more usual path.
+ WOULD YOU PREFER THAT? +
It starts to glide towards the entrance, guiding the two men forward. +
I SHOULD NOTE THAT, AS WE PASS OUT OF THE TENT, I AM ABLE TO
SELECTIVELY PHASE THROUGH INANIMATE OBJECTS WITHOUT DAMAGING
THEM. I SAY THIS ONLY IN CASE YOU WERE CONSIDERING AN ATTEMPT TO
ESCAPE AT THAT POINT. SUCH AN ATTEMPT WOULD RESULT IN YOUR BECOMING INANIMATE, AND IN THE GENERAL BECOMING ANGRY. +
It pulls a little tighter, pushing the men closer together, and proceeds to guide them through the camp.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"No, my friend," Chance smiles. "I'm not even on the damn totem pole. And I should note that I'm not the least bit interested in your parlor tricks." He walks forward as directed.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The pair are escorted into the largest tent on the site.
Inside it is well furnished, and the General waits, with the second
Archon. There are several officers present. All, including
the General are currently standing around a table where several large
maps are spread out, talking and pointing...
"If ye send the 9th and the 21st here, with aerial support, we can halve the time to take that fortress."
"The 122nd is reporting minimal resistance, and should stand able to assist soon."
"Well, the Saknur Chesat met no resistance. The locals surrendered upon first contact. They are without honour!" (this from a tall reptilian creature clad in black mail).
"Resistance at Nairans was solid, but they are weakening. They will fall before tomorrow is out."
"Good. We need to move the Alea on to the next target."
The escorting Archon makes a sound which might be taken for a clearing of its throat, if it had a throat to clear.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The General looks up, helm swinging to orient on the prisoners. "Ah, Left. Good to see the three of you. And not, for example, in five or six pieces."
The Archon behind the General makes a whirring sound of amusement. + MESSY AND DIFFICULT TO CARRY, GENERAL. AND LEFT ALWAYS FORGETS TO BRING A MOP AND BAGS +
+ 'STUFF IT', COPPER-BAIT +
Both Archons make noises that might even be considered snickers. A few people in the tent wince at the grating sounds.
"I fear you won't be playing any instrument for me, Chance. At
least, not one that won't be checked more thoroughly first." The General goes back to his maps. The General taps the map. "No. Not the 122nd. Send the 36th and the Saknur Chesat with the 9th and 21st - well done, Jur'ist,
and we will have someone hold what you have taken - and detach the 2nd
to back up the 122nd. I suspect we shall see a sudden, massive
resistance when they reach this valley - they're drawing us in.
Continue, sirs - I shall rejoin you in a moment...but we need that
fortress taken."
To the sound of agreeable murmurs from the officers, the General walks from the table toward the prisoners.
"So, Chance. It's an interesting little instrument you have there. Someone make it for you?" The helm shifts. "Aaron.
You're not looking well. Actually, neither of you are.
Truly sorry about the accomodations, but they beat a pit in the
ground...or a shallow grave. Wine?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Oh, any instrument will do, general." Chance shrugs with a amicable smile. "I'm
afraid mine doesn't work right now, anyway. It was a gift, from a good
friend and mentor, who turned out to be more than he seemed. Sadly, I
never saw him again after the day he gave it to me. That instrument got
me into some trouble before I finally figured it all out, you know.
Let's see, if you wanted us dead I'm sure you'd simply have it done, so
the wine is either drugged or completely safe. So, in any case - I'd
love some!"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I'll have some as well, please." Aaron said, sounding better than he
must have looked. "If you were going to kill us, we'd be dead already,
yes?"
Aaron shrugged.
"At least, you haven't tried to kill us yet." he said, and sighed. "So yeah, I'd love some wine. Or something stronger, if you've got it."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Doesn't work." The Warrior considers that, while
(surprisingly delicately, given the massive, armored gauntlets) pouring
Chance a glass of wine. "Interesting. This
mentor. You wouldn't be able to describe him to me, would
you? I'm a little curious, given the makeup of that instrument."
"And you're both correct...well, half-correct, in Chance's case. Whatever drink I offer you is completely safe. He passes the wine to Chance, then casually opens a small chest with the toe of his boot. "Let's
see. Whiskey - bourbon, corn and scotch, no rye.
Sorry. Brandy. Some vodka, I think...at least it's made
from potatoes, I suppose it qualifies. A full bottle of
gin. Can't abide the stuff, tastes like pine needles." The helm turns toward Aaron, then back to the chest. "Absinth, something made from sugar-cane, and something...green. Also, that clear stuff - Nettare degli dei.
Left snatched that up on the way through Escher. It's not bad,
but probably a little sweet for your taste right now." He coughs, behind the helmet. "I expect you're looking for something a trifle more bitter."
"If I had to bet, I'd peg you for a sour mash man." The
General shifts to the side of the chest so as to keep facing the two
men, and crouches to tap a bottle of corn whiskey.
JACK DANIEL'S
old time
Old No7
Brand
Quality
TENNESSEE
sour mash
WHISKEY
"Pick your poison, sir. Forgive me if I don't drink with you."
One armored hand makes a motion at the front of the greathelm.
The General rocks back, then slowly stands. The armor makes
little to no noise. "I have questions, and I hope you'll answer them."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance accepts the glass of wine with a nod and finds a place where he can sit and prop his legs up. "Mr.
Flummox? He has an odd mad. He was my art teacher back home, one of
many teachers really. He kept trying to tell me how to put life into my
art, whatever that means. I just never took to it the way I took to
music and 'live' entertainment. I guess it was my music that eventually
found life, instead of my art. But he taught me a number of valuable
things over time, much more than just art. I was young, so I didn't pay
too much attention to his appearance. He was old, terribly short and
stooped. He wore this old tunic that went down to his ankles. He was a
great man. When he gave it to me, it was a rapier- though neither he or
I had any fondness for weapons. It took me a while to unlock the
secrets."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron, without any hint of tact, merely grabbed the bottle of whisky
and took a slug. He swallowed, grunted, then took another. He didn't
feel like sitting, so he merely grabbed the closest piece of wall he
could.
Considering his current state, the General wasn't that far wrong regarding his choice of alcohol.
Escher. That was a name he knew, the word tickling something in the back of his mind.
He took another drink.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior stares at Aaron as the man drinks, and jerks his gaze away
when Chance answers the question. He seems almost
uncertain. "It...a rapier. Secrets - it is a shapeshifting tool. And you use it now - for what purpose, if you don't mind?" The helm strays back toward Aaron as the man drinks again, then snaps back toward Chance. "Interesting.
I've never, ever heard of that kind of application. Sounds
fascinating. I'd very much like to see it...."
Aaron is still drinking.
The General leans a little closer to Chance, and his voice drops to a whisper within his helm. "Do you...has he been like this long? It is a recent thing?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Lowering the bottle to his hip, Aaron raised an eyebrow.
"I have a notorious tolerance for alcohol," he semi-lied. He really did have an almost insanely high tolearance, but it wasn't as notorious as
he made it sound. Chance wouldn't know that, but Aaron really didn't
care much anyway.
There were few things, aside from sex and near-constant
life-threatening encounters, that could really get him wasted. Within
the past... oh, fifty years or so, he'd had zero of the former, and
almost too much of the latter, so he was leaning towards one of the
more common vices. Not that it would bother him much.
"And no, I'm not often like this. More appropriately, I'm... prickly
and unpredictable." he said, and took another drink. For emphasis.
Yeah. Emphasis.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance shrugs. "I've only known him a day, so I have no idea. Maybe he's just trying to numb himself up for the torture and all that later."
"Anyway, yes it's a shapeshifting tool when it works. It's primarily
a guitar or other musical instrument, but when needed it becomes a
weapon. It generally adapts to the rules of the current world, but it
can break them sometimes if the need is great. It's quite a fine thing,
too. It'll cut through rock like butter, in a pinch."
He shrugs again. "I just use it to play and sing songs. My job
is what they call a death singer, see. When someone passes, I spend
some time with the friends and loved ones and learn what I can about
the fellow, develop a sort of insight into their deeper nature, and
then compose their song and, you know, play it for them. It's a gratifying life, full of buffets and women in need of consolation...."
He trails off for a moment and sighs. If only it had always been so simple.
"That's not how I got in with this lot, though. The other one, Luke,
was an old friend. I guess they were up to saving the universe or some
such and needed a hand, so Luke invited me. I spend my life on the
road, and I figured I owed the road a little bit so I jumped in to help
out."
He hesitates a moment, then with a lower voice he adds by way of explanation. "It... you know... didn't quite go the way I had imagined, really..."
"Anyway, it is indeed a weapon when it needs to be. I'd be happy to give a demonstration, but, well, you know..."
He craved the chance to play and show off a bit, but there was the
mistrust. Again, he felt the general and he could get along splendidly
in other circumstance. Even given his guitar, he wouldn't try to shoot
anyone. It'd be suicide.
"Are you going to let him drink all that? I mean, he is the only one who knows everything and isn't drugged up."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Prickly and unreliable." The Warrior repeats the words, very slowly. "Not how you were described to me, Aaron of San Anyn."
Behind him, both Archons shift in the air, slowly shrinking until dinner-plate sized.
"By all means, keep going. If it helps, that is." The General sighs inside his helm. "This isn't...." He breaks off, and switches his 'gaze' to Chance.
"Torture. Yes. I'm sorry about that, but it's not up to
me. Lord Harbonah will have his pound of flesh. He's quite
irate." One of the other Archons makes that odd, snickering
noise again. Strangely enough, it sounds directed at Harbonah
rather than the captives. "So it adapts. Curious.
I'd like to see that, sometime, but not if it means a bolt of...um...ah
yes, 'charged particles' through my chest."
But despite the attempt at wit, it seems a melancholy mood is settling over the General.
"A death singer. I've never heard of that. You must know
a great deal of music, given how much death there is out there. A
worthy...a very worthy profession, Chance." The Warrior rubs his helmet. "Look,
you were dragged into this. Under false pretenses, even - there's
no 'saving' of the Universe going on here. You haven't even been
around them that long. I think I can make a case to Harbonah that
I need you. He'll understand that."
The Warrior glances over to where Aaron is examining the bottom of the bottle. "It might even help Aaron feel a little better about this," he says quietly. "Let him drink. It's not up to me to pull secrets from him."
The General's voice is far away, and the Archons behind him slip a
little closer. They seem almost like a pair of dogs, concerned
over their master's disturbance. "Not up to me at all, and not cursed likely I shall be a party to it," the Warrior finishes in a whisper.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron didn't bother correcting the General. It was likely that he had
repeated his statement wrong deliberately. Unreliable, he was most
certainly not...
At least, not anymore, he believed. Either way, the General would find out soon enough.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance laughs lightly. "No,
it wouldn't mean a bolt of charged particles through your chest. It
could do that, but I favor my skin too much and I never relish the idea
of killing anyone. I mean, at this point all you've done is put on
manacles- not any worse than some dates I've had, if you know what I
mean. Oh, speaking of which..." He sets his glass of wine down.
He holds his hands before him, pressing his thumb and pinky of one hand
together then gives the manacle a twist and slips it free of his wrist.
He then repeats the same for the other. He sets them aside on the table
and picks the glass of wine up again.
"So, where were we?" He muses. <b>"Oh, I actually came up with
the Death Singer bit myself. It sounds rather important, doesn't it? I
got the idea from some old tales I heard once."
He spends a moment of quiet, gazing into the wine glass. He watches the
reflections ripple and break apart, as he stirs it silently.
"Well, no, I can't really change sides that easily, sadly. I mean,
what kind of man would I be? I did make a commitment and where would
the trust be if I were to go with the highest bidder, as it were. You
couldn't trust me.
"Not that I savor torture all that much, so if some middle ground were
to be found, perhaps. Keep me under lock and key and I can always say
I'm only pretending to help you- all in an effort to gather information
for the other side, or some such."
He muses a moment longer, his eyes still wandering around the wine glass.
"Maybe we could just say: you talk to Harbonah and do what you can,
and I'll do what I can for your side- unofficially and under protest,
of course." he smiles ruefully. "If not, then no hard feelings either way- but man's got to have his honor or what has he got? I mean, really."
He looks away a moment. He hated the thought of 'opting out' of the
torture on one level, but he certainly didn't savor it, either. Any
attempt to just play along was a bit too obvious anyway. Switch sides
too fast, and no one would ever trust him. Not that the general would
allow him to switch sides so simply, of course. That wasn't the offer.
In a bit lower voice, with a sidelong glance to check Aaron, he turns to the Warrior and adds, "Honestly,
I'm not all that sure where I want to stand in this affair. To be
blunt, I don't like the progress my side is making. I'm a bit concerned
about our chances; but then, they make it out like you guys are going
to turn the universe into something inhospitable to humans or
something, some kind of primordial clam chowder."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The General gives the impression of watching both men, Aaron as he
drinks, Chance as he speaks, almost as though searching for something
important, something he does not wish to miss. He gives an amused
chuckle at Chance's removal of the cuffs before reaching out to pick
them up for study. "Expansion. Contraction. Basic escapology, but skillfully applied, Chance. Well done."
+ WE, TOO, DO EXPANSION AND CONTRACTION. +
Both Archons sail forward, almost giving the impression of relief at
the distraction. They shrink to the size of the cuffs that Chance
has so recently discarded.
+ CHANCE COULD DEMONSTRATE HIS SKILL AGAIN WITH US, IF YOU DESIRE. GENERAL. +
Another metallic snicker fills the tent. In stereo.
"No, no." The Warrior gives a wave. "Should let Aaron out, as well. He can't be comfortable. Right?"
What sounds like request for confirmation turns out to be a request for
action. One of the Archons slips forward to hover before
Aaron. 'Right', no doubt.
+ PLEASE REMAIN STILL. OR, SHOULD YOU SO DESIRE, WAVE YOUR ARMS WILDLY. +
Should Aaron comply, either way, the Archon (almost daintily) slices through his shackles and they tumble to the ground.
"The quartermaster will complain, and it is a bit of a waste, but
I'm valuing my time with the two of you, and it would take several
minutes to find a key. After all, it's not every day I meet a
self-proclaimed Death Singer...and whether or not you were trained,
recreated it, or simply stole an idea, that doesn't matter.
People need these things. People need you, just like they need
Aaron. Chance, listen to me." The Warrior grows more serious, now, and his voice seems aimed at both men, though he speaks directly to Chance.
"Men of honor you are, both of you. But you're fighting for
the wrong side. No, I won't pretend that the Archons will set up
some kind of...paradise if they win. But look at what you have,
now." He waves his armored hand to the door of the tent. "Giants
playing in the sandbox. They build what they desire, then break
it down. They shatter worlds. They
control...everything. Everything in Shadow is subject to the whim
of Amber and Chaos. They twist entire civilizations, create to
destroy, and steal away the very freedom of the people of Shadow.
And they've been doing that for milennia."
He leans back. "The Archons will destroy all of
that. Utterly. No new generation will arise to take control
of the thrones. No new wave of nobles, armed with Pattern and
Logrus, will sweep across the universe and bend it to their whims."
Right moves back to hover beside the General's shoulder, Left above the other.
"We'll probably all die. But the universe will be FREE.
Someday, something will rise up in it, usurp it from the Archons.
Or perhaps the Archons themselves will change. But whatever grows
from the ashes of the old...think about it, Chance. To give the
universe a shot at finding its truth. It's too late for this
one. But a new one...ahh, wouldn't that be something?"
"You could sing the death of a everything, Chance...and the birth of a new everything." The General gestures vaguely. "Not that you need that for yourself...but the universe needs someone to sing its song before the end. And Aaron." Now the General shifts forward to look at the man who leans against a tent-post.
"Aaron. I have need. Of warriors. Of
leaders. Of men of vision. You've proven yourself as both,
with one eye or two. Prickly? Yes. Unreliable?
Never, from what I've heard, what I've seen. But I'm guessing
your fire is burned to ashes. Think of this as a chance to light
it again."
"I could save you both from Harbonah. If you stood with me."
Left shifts in the air. + GENERAL. THAT MIGHT BE A DANGEROUS THING TO CONSIDER- +
"No." The Warrior raises one, gauntleted hand. "Have done, Left. What say you, sirs?"
The voice is tense. There is no threat here, no blackmail.
Only an honest offer in search of an honest answer.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron reached into his coat, removing a pack of cigarettes. It was empty. He flicked the empty at Left.
"Thanks for releasing me." he said, and yawned.
Crossing his arms before his chest, Aaron raised his head and considered the General.
"If you know of my history, of all that I've been through since the
beginning; if you know of what I seek, then I believe you already know
my answer." he said, letting it hang. "The fact that I haven't tried to
kill anyone yet should be enough of one."
It was true. Aaron had already made his decision. Time? Time was ephemeral, but it could drag. It could drag on and on.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
There is a sudden commotion outside the tent, the sound of hoofbeats, a
horse being pulled to a sudden halt, and then a woman's voice, speaking
quickly, urgently, in a language which is unfamiliar to both Aaron and
Chance.
One of the Archons speeds up its rotation, and starts to grow again as
it glides, with all the smooth grace of some deep ocean predator,
towards the entrance...
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I may be an idealist, but I'm not that much an idealist, General," Damn, but I am. "It
sounds nice to sing the song of everything and all that, but the
problem is the part where everything is gone. It wouldn't be proper for
a Death Singer to go about killing people just he could sing for them-
well, maybe it is. I am the only one, so I guess I can make the rules.
Anyway, no the part that wins me over is the lack of torture and death.
The part that makes me hesitate is where we all die, anyway. See, I
don't give a damn about a free universe if I'm not going to be in it.
And I don't believe for a second that something won't rise up and try
to control the new one. I've been in the universe a long time and I've
only just barely heard of this Amber and Chaos, so I don't think
they're all that demonic, myself.
Nah, if I'm joining you, I'm doing it for the selfish reasons. The lack
of pain and torture bit sounds like a sweet deal to me, if you can
deliver that. Just remember, I'm not much into killing and I'm not
likely to betray my friends- other than that, my talents are yours."
It honestly wasn't sitting right in his stomach, but what other choice
did he have. He could only hope there would be some kind of rescue
attempt later. Escape would be much easier unbound with a little
freedom.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior studies Aaron for a long moment. "You've
a way with words, Aaron. Somehow you manage to not answer the
question without not answering it. Maybe that's your Amber
heritage coming out, I don't know. That's not meant as an insult,
mind - sometimes it's difficult to ignore one's roots, that's all."
Left deftly dodges the thrown cardboard rectangle, disdaining contact
with it. The Archon hums warningly, then ghosts back to where the
General stands. "Granted, you haven't exactly gone mad with rage yet, and attempted to slaughter everything in sight. So that's a plus." The Warrior leans forward. "Yet.
I need something firm, Aaron. Rock-solid oaths. Frankly,
you're far, far too dangerous to let loose in my camp with nothing
else." There is an echo of a smile in his words. "I'm working with Archons, which makes me crazy."
He reaches out, and there is a ringing noise as one of Right's blades
touches his armored finger. Touches, no more. "It doesn't make me a fool."
The helm turns toward the tent-flap as the other Archon slips that way,
but then Chance begins to speak and the General focuses his attention
on the Death-Singer. When Chance is finished, he sighs, an
echoing rattle within the armor. "Of
course the Archons will lord over the new universe. But the
Archons only control things on a gross, external scale. They do
not twist creatures' spirits. And without a Pattern and Logrus to
bind things to their will, whatever grows up in this new universe will
have a chance none of these people, none of us ever had. A chance for free will."
One finger stabs out. "Not good enough, Chance. If
I do this for you, there has to be a promise. I'm not asking you
to fight. But I will ask you to help me, and to swear not to help
the other side again. I don't embrace vipers, and keeping you
here with the idea that you'd drop me like a hot potato the moment it
got convenient...that's just bad strategy. I don't risk my men,
and I won't risk the cause."
Now he again addresses both men. "There are oaths, binding oaths I would have both of you swear. Voluntarily, of course." The General is quick to make that distinction. "By choice. But..." Again, the helm turns. "What the devil is going on out there?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
A guard steps inside, nervous seeming. "G-General...
I know you asked not to be disturbed, Sir, but a messenger has come
from the... from the... ah... the Listening Post."
The Archons are grumbling now, becoming agitated by the human's nervousness, his hesitation.
"She says she brings urgent news, Sir. Insists on speaking to you, Sir. Says nobody else will do."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"So serious for a general," Chance smirks playfully. "I'll need a bit to think it over, then, JG. But it sounds like you're going to be a very busy man." He gestures towards the commotion.
He had considered a ploy briefly in that moment of speaking, but he
decided against it just as fast. It had a bucketful of risk in the
maneuver. First, the general would likely rescind the offer. That
didn't matter. He wasn't keen to swear any binding oaths to anyone,
even if he did intend to cross lines. Second, it might get him killed
and tortured even more. It was best to just stand aside and see what
happened.
He didn't much like the sound of binding oaths. Too many stories told
of disasters involving such things, even when the best of intentions
were in play. They could be twisted and used. It called for a sacrifice
of freedom, if the general meant what he thought. No, there'd be no
binding oaths on his part, he thought- not until he knew more.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
He wasn't in any hurry, but Aaron was willing to give the General his answer.
However, his curiosity was getting the best of him. He raised his head,
inclining it to get a better look at the messenger and... whoever "she" was.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
She doesn't wait... the messenger is in the tent moments after the
guard has explained, and before the General can order her in or send
her away.
"General, Sir. I apologise for the interruption."
She glances at the two Archons, both of which are circling around the General now, snarling, "Sir. We've lost contact with Nairans."
She backs towards the entrance, hitting the canvas instead. She
starts to work her way along the wall, but confusion sends her left,
away from the opening, instead of right...
"The last report was broken off part way through, but it spoke of a small dragon and a young woman."
She is still speaking, very rapidly, to the General, but her eyes are
flicking back and forth between the two Archons. The guard is
edging away from her, just to be safe.
"Several of the Archons went to investigate them, and then the message stopped, half way through a word."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"That would be Berd, and probably Meredith. Paired, they are
individuals who are not to be underestimated." Aaron said from the back
of the room, his arms crossed over his chest. He smiled, somewhat
amused. "You're not going to be able to kill them, not like that."
Meredith could be overwhelmed, but Berd... he was a crafty and insanely
dangerous opponent. He would not be taken easilly. With Meredith to
back him up, even remotely, his defeat would be even tougher.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Apparantly so," the Warrior states dryly. "Try not to
think too long, Chance. That isn't a threat - I don't have much
time before Harbonah's people arrive to pick up you. Well send
her in, man," he states impatiently to the guard.
But all impatience vanishes at the words of the messenger. The
General grows silent, arms dropping to hang at his side. One of
his gauntleted fists slowly clenches and unclenches. Then, when
the beleaguered soldier finally finishes, it rises. "Right. Left."
Both Archons draw in, almost in preparation, then stutter to a stop at
the General's next words. They come bitten off, tainted by a hint
of bitter anger. "Cease." The Warrior stalks forward to stop in front of the woman, and that hand, encased in black metal, rises.
It falls on her shoulder. "You did well." The tone is hard, but the anger is held distant. "Go rest - get a meal. You did well."
There is silence in the tent, as the General's staff regards him and
the messenger, relieved beyond measure to be free of the Archons, slips
from the tent. Left and Right hover in the air, and their angular
velocity increases, blades spinning more and more quickly.
"Merrick," the General whispers, tone more edged than the Archons. "Get Charnel and Coil. Break our people out of there, do you hear?"
The voice trembles at the edge of control, and surprise marks many
faces at the sound. A shorter man steps forward, throws a sloppy
salute. "But refuse engagement with the dragon at all costs -
do not throw lives away. Once you have the army free, have it
splinter in four and flee to the nearest Archon-held rendezvous
points. Then use sorcery and portal the quarters back here." With a grinding of metal, the Warrior's fingers clench.
The short man nods. "You shall have them back, General," he
shoots back, his accent belonging somewhere on Shadow Earth's
England. Then he sprints from the tent.
The Warrior turns like a turret, left hand coming up to point directly
at Aaron. The right hand twitches, once, in the direction of
Right, hanging in the air behind him. The Archons have taken up a
position there, despite their agitation. Evidently they know
where they should be in these circumstances.
"I possess knowledge regarding Berd. But who?" he asks,
and his voice trembles with leashed emotion. Again, the
commanders around the tent shoot surreptitious glances to each
other. "Who is this 'Meredith'?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"She is a recent addition to our group; I think she's a powerful
empath." Aaron said, matter-of-factly. "If she comes into physical
contact with an individual, she can manifest abilities that are...
significant, to say the least."
"I believe that she was even able to penetrate Dorian's mental defenses
quite easilly, if I seem to recall. Then again, this was right
after..." he said, and then stopped. He shook his head.
"Whatever. She's not to be underestimated, despite being a child. If
she's paired with Berd, which is obvious, then her mental assistance
would more than likely be one of the reasons your forces have been
crushed."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Harbonah's people were arriving soon. That wasn't good news, though it
wasn't a surprise. The conversation had seemed to indicated that,
already. An idea was forming in his mind, though it was complex and he
wasn't sure it would work. It was risky, no matter which side he was on.
He hadn't realize how powerful Berd could be, and even more so with
Meredith at his side. She was such a fragile, complex flower. It was a
paradox that she could be so powerful at the same time.
He realized he had it in his power to quickly and easily capture both
Berd and Meredith. The more he mulled it over, the more perfect it
seemed. The problem was, how he could reverse it. The very best he
could achive is to warn Berd to stay away- and that assumed a lot of
measures weren't taken. Those measures would be taken, he was sure.
It was good to note, if he did have to switch side.
"Begging your pardon, General," he ventures. "Just what do you mean by binding oaths?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior listens in silence. Then, "From whence did she come?" he asks, voice still taut. "Did you see her arrive? Did you just...happen to meet her?" The finger curls into a fist. "Just a bit of coincidence this young girl trundled along right at that time?" The General's voice gains volume.
+ PERHAPS? +
+ YES +
At Right's confirmation, Left slips back to the other end of the
tent. Fabric tears in with a scream of blades, and a new doorway
is created. + COMMANDERS AND AIDES, PLEASE EXIT. STAGE LEFT. +
Despite the witticism, the Archon seems keyed to a fever pitch.
Right does not waver from his position, hovering just behind the
General's hand. It seems they wish to remove any witnesses from
the tent, and preferably not in front of the furious General's line of
sight.
"'Recent addition'. 'Significant' abilities. 'Paired
with Berd'. And none thought to consider the timing of this?" The Warrior shudders under his armor, and the hand pointing at Aaron rises to rub against his helm. "I hold few illusions. That...creature, with others, destroyed an entire occupation force." The helm turns to the vacating officer. "And tell Coil - intelligence on the matter! Immediately!" Then he returns his attention to his guests. "All oaths are binding, Chance," the Warrior snaps. "The choice is whether or not you will take the oath. Stop hedging and make your choice."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I don't believe in coincidence, General. She died, and then Meredith
turned up." Aaron said, sounding bitter. "If I wasn't being sent to
Harbonah, I'd join your retrieval force myself."
Aaron frowned, knowing the truth of it.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Cards on the table, Aaron. No more hints, no more bandying words," the Warrior states flatly. "Do you join me? Have you had enough of fighting for the wrong side? Or not?" Anger echoes in that voice, but not directed at Aaron.
"And you, Chance - the same. Time grows short." There is a peculiar urgency in the Warrior's voice, now, mixed with the rage.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron resisted the urge to smirk. It wouldn't have been the most intelligent thing to do in this situation.
"Yes." he simply said in response to his question. "No more bitching and whining. Let's get it done, General."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Nah," Chance says. "I guess not. I mean, given time I might
have cooled down a little bit, but I'm still a little too miffed about
being here in the first place, see. My heart wouldn't be in it, and you
would be able to see that. In the morning after a good meal and sleep,
who knows what might have happened....
Too bad, though. I had a great plan for capturing Berd. Maybe even perfect...."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior gives Aaron a long, steady look. Then he nods. "Sometimes you have to trust. You know that, don't you Aaron? Of course, this
would be a splendid time to pay me back for my little deception
bringing you here." He shrugs, a massive event in the armor he wears. "I
didn't get where I am now by avoiding taking risks. All right,
Aaron. I'll get you to swear that oath in a moment, but I expect
you'll want your sword. Left?"
The Archon stirs uneasily. + GENERAL....
"I'm quite safe, Left. After all, I have Right, here."
+ GO ABOUT YOUR ERRANDS, LEFT +
At that, Left spins in the air furiously. + BLADECARRIER! +
Right snickers in response as Left vanishes through the wall of the
tent to another shrill tearing sound. The General reaches out and
fingers the rip, then sighs.
"Right...apologize to Left. That was ill-done."
Right seems ready to argue, but then suddenly dips in the air, giving the impression of actually being abashed. + APOLOGIES, GENERAL. YOU ARE CORRECT - I TOOK THINGS TOO FAR. +
"Will wonders never cease?" The Warrior shakes his head. "Aaron,
I truly hope you aren't doing this just to gather
intelligence...Chance. I'll make you a deal. Give me this
plan, and I'll stall giving you over to Harbonah's men. I'll
explain to them that you are giving me vital information, here and now,
voluntarily. They will be suspicious of your information, of
course, but it would give you the opportunity to think this over."
He turns away, stalks to the table and leans on it. The Archon follows, keeping its distance exact. "Meredith," he breathes, and his massive gauntlets drag lines on the scarred table as his hands fist.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well, in that case, I should mention its not quite perfect; it depends on you trusting me, see." In other circumstances, it would be a perfect plan. He wasn't sure the general would trust him to do his part.
"Also, there are parts of this I don't know about, so forgive me if
my assumptions are off. Like I said, a lot of this is still new to me...
"While we were in the tent, I composed a song about Berd. I can use
that song to contact Berd mentally. My plan was to use it in the event
I found myself outside the Broken God's influence- it was a slim
chance, but it was about all I could.
"Drop the Broken God's influence for a moment, let me get a brief
message through to Berd, just enough to get him here. He'll come, but
not because we're in trouble. He'll come because I'll tell him you also
have his daughter here. From what Luke told me, they never found the
girl's body so it's plausible. If my assumptions are correct, nothing
in heaven or hell could stop him from showing up immediately. He'll be
pissed and bent on destruction, but if you throw the Broken God up as
soon as he appears, he should be powerless."
He shrugs his shoulders just slightly, looking away. What have I done?
"So, it depends on me sending the right message and his emotions
being strong enough that he arrives happhazardly to save her. I'll make
it urgent, just in case. I'll say they're in the process of taking us
to Harbonah. He should realize that its now or never. The story is true
enough, he shouldn't sense any deception. And you've seen I have some
skill at deception, anyway."
He swallows hard. "What do you think?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Warrior glances back over his shoulder to study Chance as the man outlines his plan. He slowly nods. "It
sounds...plausible. Interesting information regarding the song -
now your instrument becomes more clear. Fascinating. Of
course, it depends on how he sees the loss of this 'daughter' of his." The Warrior turns back to the table and stares down at the gouges. "Perhaps he will bring Meredith as well," the man whispers quietly before turning to face both of his 'guests'.
"Trust. It's a difficult thing, Chance. I want to trust,
of course, but I've proven myself to be untrustworthy. In
war. Of course, 'all warfare is based upon deception'." His voice relaxes its iron edge a hair. "But
in my dealings with people, I prefer to be straightforward. And I
prefer people to do the same. Unfortunately, I rarely get what I
wish."
The fingers drum a complex beat on the table for a moment as the General leans back, considering. "Very
well. We'll try your idea. I'm rather certain Harbonah
would be far more pleased to get his mitts on your little scaly
associate than the two of you. If you two assist me I shouldn't have any problem getting you turned over to my command." He makes a quick gesture. "Not
as soldiers. I need people who can assist in ways I cannot.
People with different points of view. People like yourselves."
"I'm willing to take risks in the hopes that you two are those people." One hand brushes across his forehead, and the gauntleted fingers tremble, slightly. "Sometimes...." Right shivers in place, seeming caught between motion and a need to remain at exactly his current position.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance nods. "Well," he sighs. "I Hear hell is nice this time of year. Tell the devil to warm me up a seat."
The other problem with his plan was it was too good, for the general.
Sure, he could twist the message and warn Berd, but it would win
nothing. He'd be in a worse spot, the Broken God's blanket would be
thrown back up and they'd lose. If Berd showed, he was captured. If he
didn't, all was lost. He had no choice.
"Let me know when. I just need a moment to prepare so I can sound a bit desperate."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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"I'd like to have my sword back first, if you don't mind." Aaron said,
leaning back against the wall. He eyed the General, wondering if he'd
agree to the request.
"It'd be a shame to drop the Broken God's power and have something unexpected occur, eh General? How do you expect me to earn your trust, if you can't even tust me in this?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Of course, Aaron. You might recall that my associate Left is
even now on the way to procure your blade. Choose your words
carefully, Right." The General points one finger at Right,
who somehow manages to look both abashed and wounded,
simultaneously. It's a neat trick, considering the danioti's lack of face.
+ LEFT WILL RETURN MOMENTARILY +
The Warrior nods. "Chance, we'll set things up in this
tent, but I'll have to inform the Keepers of the Broken God. You
can consider this your proving ground, both of you." The Warrior shrugs. "The opportunities for treachery are myriad, but I'm willing to take the risk. A fool's game, perhaps." There comes the sense that the Warrior grins behind his heavy helm - certainly it lies in his tone of voice. "I'm well acquainted with such things."
"As for the unexpected, Chance might very well be able to transport himself out. That'll be up to him." The Warrior circles one finger in the air. "As
for yourself, Aaron...I'm certain you have an equal number of
horrifying potent abilities up your sleeve. Hopefully they won't
be falling like so many bricks upon my head." He turns away
to look down at the open chest of alcohol, hands behind his back, Right
floating directly behind the gauntlets.
"Oh, and Aaron? Careful how hard you push. I might start thinking you want this a little too much." He swings his head around to look at the pair of guests. "I
trust you both...very, very little. I have my people to
consider. If I suspect you'll harm then in any way, this is over."
Something in his iron tone suggests that if they hurt the General's men
by treachery, Harbonah would not receive living prisoners. "You're
walking a fine line, and until I'm convinced - and yes, you'll get your
opportunities, Aaron's right, no sense otherwise - you're on probation."
+ MORE ACCURATELY, YOU WALK A RAZOR'S EDGE. + Suddenly all mockery fades from Right's tone - it becomes as cold and pitiless as the void between stars. + IF YOU HARM THE GENERAL'S MEN, YOU HARM THE GENERAL. AND IF YOU HARM THE GENERAL, LEFT AND I WILL SHRED YOU. + Bluntly put, with no attempt at witticism.
"Cards on the table, for myself as well," the Warrior states quietly. "I don't want you going into this blind." Then he raises his voice, calling out to the guards outside. "Get me a messenger!"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The requested messenger pushes into the tent, using the proper
entrance, rather than one of the impromptu doorways created by the
exiting Archon. In the flickering light reflecting from the
Archon's blades, the silver trim on his uniform gleams faintly.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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The Warrior turns to face the messenger as the man enters. He
stares at the man for a long moment, taking in his uniform and
evidently trying to place the officer. Then he shrugs, moving
around to the heavy table again. "I
need you to set up go to the Keepers of the Broken God and tell them to
come here. With an escort - not a large one, just enough to
guarantee their safety. They're to set up outside the tent.
Report back when they've been told, and we'll get this show on the
road."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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Aaron didn't allow any surprise to show on his face, despite the fact that he was sufficiently surprised to warrant some. It wasn't impossible... he'd stopped believing in impossibilities long ago.
"As you say, General." he humbly responded.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Chance nods, looking after the messenger. "Gotcha, probation," he says. "So, any chance I could get my guitar back? You can keep it away from me while we do the whole plan, of course."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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The General nods in satisfaction as the messenger speeds away, and motions the two to exit the small pavillion. "Please, gentlemen. After you."
Once the foursome (Right still hovering behind the armored figure) are
outside, the General jerks his finger at another aid. "Kelvin, Left should be on the way back here with a sword. Could you ask the danioti - politely - to return and grab the musical instrument as well?" Right snickers, fingernails on chaulkboard. "Make
certain Left understands the General doesn't want anyone hurt, and the
instrument to come here in one piece. Impress upon her that this
is important." A quick glare for Right, and the Archon subsides.
Then the Warrior turns to Aaron and Chance. "Let's have some distance between the two of you, shall we?"
A quick motion has a man running for a chair, which is placed near
Chance. The Warrior taps Aaron's arm and jerks a thumb to the
side of the open area before the command tent. "You and I, over there. Delgado!" A hatchet-faced man glances up from his examination of a crossbow. "Get
two dozen men with bows and several with nets. I want them ready,
understood? Oh, and get some more of the soporific. We
might need it."
His helm swings toward Aaron. "I want him alive, but I'm not fussy enough to risk my men."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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"As you wish, General," Aaron said. He followed easilly, not hurrying.
They were sufficiently covered, and Aaron felt that Right and Left could be there relatively fast. He left himself seem calm.
Even with this new addition to their interesting debacle, Aaron still couldn't think of a way out of this situation.
Still, things remained similar. He wasn't dead yet.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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Kelvin salutes, "As
you wish, General. Left is to bring the musical instrument too,
undamaged, and with no harm to anybody. And you want me to bring
two dozen bowmen, and some more of the compound." Having
confirmed the orders, to ensure that he has them correct, Kelvin
salutes and turns away. Even hurrying, he walks stiffly upright,
like an automaton.
Off in the distance, in the opposite direction to Kelvin's exit, a
party of men can be seen approaching, carrying something on their
shoulders. It looks to be a small crate.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Chance smiles and nods. "Good," he says. "I get a little edgy without it around, you know? I mean, without that thing, I'm kinda lost."
He takes a deep breath and sits down, looking a little pale. "Wow, this is.... some thing, eh? I mean, it's a good thing I never got to know the little guy better." He tries to laugh at his humor.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"All right. Wait here. I'm going to explain to my sorcerer's what's what. You lot - watch this one."
The knot of soldiers, three of them with crossbows, glance at Aaron and
nod. The Warrior shoots a look at Aaron from within the helm, and
then heads across the field, pausing next to Chance. "Don't forget what's at stake here, Chance. You're making the right decision. I know it's hard, but focus on that."
With Right floating behind him (a constant reminder that something
very, very quick is 'keeping an eye' on both Aaron and Chance), the
General walks across to where the men carry the box. "Stop here, please. Well done," he absently thanks the messenger. "Take up a position with the guards." The Warrior motions to the mage who seems to be in charge of the little group. "I need to speak with you."
Pulling him away from the other mages, the Warrior says a few words in
low tones that do not carry. The mage glances at his
subordinates, nods, and then continues to listen. Every now and
then he nods again. Right hovers behind them, giving the
impression of watching the unarmed Aaron and Chance closely.
The two break apart, the mage returning to his men with a worried
expression on his face. The General strides away, back toward
Chance. He pauses, though, when the burning demon-form appears in
the crowd. "Charnel." Spinning on his heel, the armored figure moves to speak with the tall, perilously beautiful creature.
Then the Warrior walks back to Chance. "I swear, it's like herding cats some days...." He shakes his head. "Pray you never have to lead an army, Chance. It's no fun." He raises his voice. "Aaron, your sword's on the way. Sound good?"
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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"Don't worry, JG. I'll do exactly as I'm supposed to do, and I'll
make it convincing. Even if I had a mind to betray you, this isn't a
good way to do it. If I were to warn Berd of all that's going on here,
it would only result in me being tortured or killed and he still
wouldn't be able to stop you." He shrugs. "As long as you have that thing," he gestures to the crate. "You've
got us all in check. I may not be happy with the situation, but I'm not
stupid. I still can't figure out what that thing does to snuff
everyone's powers, but it sure is something of a doomsday box, isn't
it? I mean, that's like starting the game with queens instead of pawns."
He stops talking and sighs quickly. "Sorry, I'm rambling.
Acting calm in the face of an ambush and lying through my teeth about
some secret plan is one thing. Betrayal is entirely different."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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The Warrior puts a hand on Chance's shoulder. Lightly, not threateningly. "Oh,
I was thinking more of you 'trumping' out of here, to wherever the
little dragon happens to be sitting. Probably still in
Nairans. I don't know if you can do that."
"But if you do I still have Aaron. And that's something." He sighs. "Don't
worry about the rambling, Chance. Betrayal is such an ugly
prospect. It's one thing to trick an enemy, which is what you'd
be doing if you backstabbed me now. It's another thing when it's
a friend, or an ally." His other hand twitches once.
Releasing the Deathsinger, he steps back. "As for chess,
if I could line my side with queens, and leave the opposition with
nothing but a king, I'd do so. I stack my deck any way I can,
Chance, because a fair fight is for people who like to watch their men
die. I'll use what's in that box any way I can to get the upper
hand. Remember that."
With that, the Warrior walks back across the grass toward Aaron. "Sorry about the wait, Aaron."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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There is a rushing sound, growing louder, and Left is there. Even
faceless, it is obvious from the way the creature moves that it is a
little puzzled by the change in the circumstances outside the tent.
Still, it does not ask. Instead it hovers before the General, and
two items appear in the centre of the wheel of spinning blades.
One is a sword, the other a guitar.
Meanwhile, the group near the crate step aside as the wizard in charge moves closer and lifts open the lid.
Inside is a slab of sandstone, marked with two red-brown spots, neither of them more than an inch across.
The sword and the guitar are placed carefully on the ground, the Archon backing away, humming.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Ah, Left. Perfect, as always." The compliment seems to mollify the archon - how that can be seen is anyone's guess, but it does. "I have another little job for you - not a word, Right, this is important and within Left's area of specialty."
Halfway between Aaron and Chance, the Warrior leans almost into the
whirling wheel of blades and speaks quickly and quietly, waving a hand
toward the now-open crate. "Right. Off you go."
As the danioti spins away, the General picks up both
instrument and sword, weighing them against each other for a long
moment. Then he sighs and walks back to Chance, proffering his
guitar. "Here you are, Chance. You'll have to wait for them to drop the field."
Then he retraces his steps and moves to stand in front of Aaron.
Holding the man's sword by the sheath, he taps the hilt in his other
hand thoughtfully. "Now, if I hand this over to you, you won't try to find a weakness in my armor, will you?"
+ TREACHERY COMES FROM BEHIND, GENERAL. YOU TAUGHT US THAT. + Right spins in place behind the Warrior's back. + BUT GIVEN MY PROXIMITY, THIS ONE MAY ATTEMPT TO PLANT THAT BLADE IN YOUR BACK BY WAY OF YOUR STOMACH. +
"Quite true." The General weighs the blade one more time, then offers the hilt to Aaron. "But one must take risks to move forward, Right."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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Left moves, hovering above the open crate, then shifts, realigning the
angle of spin. There is an acceleration, the blades starting to
whistle as they cut the air... and then there is a blurred motion as
the Archon's perimeter seems to buckle at its lower extreme, and dips
into the crate, and a sound like the roaring of a great cat.
Then the Archon moves aside, shrinking, as the wizard steps forward
with a canteen and pours water on the stone. There is a hiss, and
steam rises in great clouds.
+ APOLOGIES GENERAL. IN MY EFFORT TO COMPLETE THE TASK, I HAVE DAMAGED THE CONTAINER. +
There is a small notch, perhaps a quarter inch deep, in the edge of the crate.
The human completes his study of the stone, bending close to examine it, then beckons another man forward, "Varen, you're the strongest here. Pick up the smaller section and follow me."
He selects a small group of others, seeming to ponder his choices
carefully, and soon he strides away with his escort, followed by Varen
and the stone slab.
The other wizard remains behind.
In the crate the stone slab is smaller than when it started, and only has a single red spot now.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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"No, General, I won't." Aaron responded in the negative. "If I was going to stab you, I'd stab you in the face.
It's that much more blatant, and seems to get my point across rather
well." he said, taking his blade with a somewhat aggrieved sigh.
He strapped it to his body with practiced ease, feeling Ilsefranvir's
comfortable weight. Now only if he could contat her accompanying
intelligence, he'd be gold.
But things were going to become very interesting very fast once the
power of Broken God was dropped. He only hoped he was prepared for what
was to come.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Chance nods. Betrayal was an ugly word, indeed. The general had the
right of it, and he seemed to understand the risk he was taking in
trusting them. He notes the whispered orders and suspected the general
had his own plans underway, due precaution. For a moment, he had
thought the general was entirely too trusting. This was re-assuring.
It was all the more reason to do extactly as he was told. Not because
he wasn't brave enough to do otherwise, but because there was little
else he could do. The timing and setup was perfect, with a couple of
nagging ifs working at him.
For instance, how did they know that the crate, the stone slab, had
anything to do with the broken god. It could be a decoy. He could do
his part of the plan, but the rest was up to the others, if they were
going to do anything at all.
Aaron was being difficult to read, but he still believed in the man.
The messenger certainly looked familiar, but that could be a gross
miscalculation, too. It could even be a planned one.
All in all, things were not looking promising. There was a bit of hope,
but not much. Too bad it rested on others making the same guesses and
plans as him, with no way of communication between them. His best bet
was to keep his nose clean and act if others acted. If nothing
happened, he had earned the general's trust.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Nonsense, Left," the Warrior replies airily. "Fine job. The container is dross. Well, not quite, but that little nick isn't going to do anythign of consequence."
The wizard and his escort vanish into the crowd, and the General turns back to Aaron. "You
might be a little more sympathetic to my position, Aaron, rather than
being snippy about the fact that I don't instantly trust you. I
know very well that you could wreak havoc amoung my people if you so
choose, and that this is a particularly dangerous way for me to be
testing your...loyalty." He wiggles his hand at Right, behind his back. "You'll
forgive me if I don't fall all over myself trusting you just yet.
But shall we say that it's not impossible? Can we start this
over? Right, I'll need you here."
With that, the Archon floats forward, shrinking. In an impressive
display of control, it fits itself over the Warrior's fingers without
touching him. Controal and trust, on both parts. The
Warrior's hand promptly vanishes where it slips into the Archon.
"Places everyone. Chance, are you prepared?"
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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"Ready as I'll ever be, I guess. Let's get this over with." He
sets the guitar beside him. He won't need it for this performance, but
it's nice to have it nearby, just in case all hell breaks lose.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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Around the perimeter of the area several more guards appear, led by the
one called David. They assume positions spread out around the
edges of the roughly defined rectangle, all facing outwards, and all
carrying crossbows.
The General raises the hand which is not inside the Archon, and looks around one more time...
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Very well!" The Warrior's voice is tense, practically
vibrating with anticipation. It's a contrast to his earlier,
almost disinterested attitude.
"Calm the Broken God!"
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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The ritual starts, and as rituals go, it is a short one. The
wizard who remains drones a short chant which seems to consist less of
words, and more of animal sounds. His hands pass in a sequence of
complex movements above the crate.
And then... "It is done, My Lord. The field disappates as we speak."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Well and good," the Warrior replies. "Well, Chance? Do your spiritual abilities return? Aaron? Still want to go through with this?" Oddly enough, a touch of sadness enters the Warrior's tone. "This may be your final chance," he says quietly.
"Make your choices. Both of you."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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There is no visible sign, no sound, no release of pressure, nothing to
indicate to the mere mortals on the field that the power of the Broken
God is relaxing... but to those whose senses extend into places that
others cannot reach, there is a sensation of release, like the
loosening of bonds in their minds.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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"A little delayed, dearest to my heart, but true nonetheless. We seem to be in a bit of a conundrum." Aaron said to his comrade, then outlined the situation and his future plans.
"Well, you've done things that are only slightly more insane... I hope you anticipate the future."
Aaron sighed, then, and merely answered the Warrior.
"Yes."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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I'm always the last Chance, he thinks with a smirk. Well, things would
play out exactly the way they were going to play out, that was for
sure. High stakes and low card, he thought. He had one card to play,
and it was the lowest of them all, but it might be enough. After that,
everyone else had to play his own cards.
He stands and shakes his hands, as if to relieve some tension. He
closes his eyes and takes a few deep breathes, focusing on being 'in
character.' The scenario was that he had stolen only a few moments with
which to contact Berd.
Then, he purses his lips and begins to whistle. It opens with a long,
low note, then rises quickly to higher place and continues, full of
peaks and valleys. He composed the same song in the tent, earlier. As
he whistles, his eyes search for David and he winks quickly. David had
expressed annoyance at the whistling earlier; perhaps now he was seeing
the importance of what Chance had been working on.
As he whistles, his mind focuses on the subject of the song. Notes are carried across the ether.
Berd? Berd? Quickly, man.... I don't think I have much time! Are you there? Whether the drake is receiving or not, he focuses on images of the
earlier ambush and the camp- hopefully enough to get Berd's attention.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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David scowls back at Chance, and leans closer to one of his men...
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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He mumbles the words as he projects them; trying to enforce the message. It's
important. There's another prisoner here- they keep her well-guarded,
but they call her Cyan. I thought I heard… I think it's her. She's alive- But they're taking us all to Harbonah, right now. You have to hurry!
He makes a slicing gesture across his throat with his hand, indicating
to cut the message off. He keeps trying to send information as he does
so, hoping it'll appear cut off.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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The Warrior glances at Aaron when Chance starts his motions. "What do you expect he means?" the General inquires, perplexed. "Can't be the Broken God; the dragon won't be able to come."
With a shrug, the General walks over to where Chance sits and leans down beside his ear. "Stop now," he whispers. "Oh - and sorry." Then his left, mailed hand comes down on the back of Chance's neck like a hammer.
A suprisingly careful hammer - striking exactly at the occipetal bun,
where the head joins the spine. Stunning, disorienting, and a
trifle painful...but not a crushing blow by any stretch of the
imagination.
"You soldiers. Look like you're guarding Aaron, without actually guarding him. Give him some space."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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Finally, Aaron sighed. He seemed to relax, crossing his arms before his chest as he nodded to the General with amused approval.
"Much better. He was getting just a trifle annoying."
Aaron stepped away from the Guards and raised his head to the Warrior then, casting a curious gaze upon him.
"I don't have any freaking clue what he was mumbling about." Aaron said honestly. "I'm ready to get sworn in, General."
He wasn't about to throw any thoughts out into the ether, though. With
the power of Broken God down for the moment, there was no telling the
type of mental potential or power-tapping that was aimed at their tent.
He had specifically told Arianne the exact opposite of what he was
intending just for that reason. Perhaps that was why he was feeling
vague surprise and alarm from their link at the moment.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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The group led by David moves closer to Aaron, tightenimg their
perimeter, but not so tight that he couldn't move if he wanted
to. Again, the crossbows are pointing away from him.
For the moment.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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"Unh," Chance exclaims as he tumbles forward, landing on his
knees. The world spins crazily, but he makes no move. He's painfully
aware of his guitar nearby, but he makes a forced effort to not even
look at it. The general knows what kind of weapon it is, now. Even
reach out for support might be seen as aggresive.
As the pain fades slightly and he returns to his senses, somewhat, he says, "It's
no good. Berd's not taking calls right now. Either that, or he's on to
us, somehow- I don't know, but I'm leaning more towards the not
listening. It was like trying to scale a glacier, and from what he and
Dorian said before they left, they were going into a pretty serious
fight against Dor's ex-wife or something like that. It may still be
going on, given how time works between worlds."
He rubs the back of his skull, still on his knees. He didn't want to
move just yet until he was sure of the general intentions. Would he no
longer have a use for Chance, now?
"The alternative is- well, I don't see how that's possible, but
there is a lot about them I don't know, yet. I dunno- I could keep
trying if you think its wise. I thought it might be better to scrap the
whole idea rather than leave the camp open. But, you know, whatever you
think is best, general."
He grits his teeth.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Dorian's ex-wife...." The Warrior's voice trails off as he carefully helps Chance up. "Have a seat, Chance. Sorry about the thump. Just sit for a moment and look wounded." The General slowly paces around Chance, and rubs his free gauntlet against his helm. "Well. Maybe another ally, eh? Assuming your former associates don't simply kill her."
"We'll leave the camp open for a moment, yet. Pity about this little problem we're having getting ahold of the drake," he says quietly. "It
was a good plan, Chance. I didn't have a great deal of hope for
success, but a good plan nonetheless. Don't worry - I'm not going
to throw you to the wolves because a good plan failed. That's
arrant stupidity, characteristic of moustache-twirling villians in bad
theatre." The Warrior raises his voice. "Aaron -
could you come over here, please? We have an oath to take, signed
and witnessed. Both of you, and myself as well."
He runs his hand across his belt. "Forgot the damn paper and quill...Left -?" That Archon shrinks slightly at the almost-request, and the Warrior hesitates. "No, you're not a gopher. Apologies, Left, for sending you hither and yon on increasingly mundane tasks." The helm comes up, and his hand rises to slide along the crowd before stopping on the messenger of before.
The finger crooks. "You - the quick one. Come here."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Chance continues to rub the back of his head. "Look,
can you blame me? …. Beat me all you want, you'll get nothing for me-
…. and I'd try again given the chance….. My only regret is I didn't
compose a song for James or one of the others, instead…. Damn his
defenses."
Chance seems angry, but his sentences are broken as if he's
concentrating on something else while speaking. He spits in the general
direction of the general, without actually coming near.
He grumbles. "Too bad my message didn't get through to Berd….
He'd give you hell if he found out his daughter was here…. Good plan,
my ass. Go to hell, general…. You'll get nothing more of me…."
His body posture is guarded, but to the trained eye- one area is left
open. In terms of skilled defense, it's like he's inviting the general
to kick him in the stomach.
The gesture, the attitude, the general had to get a clue pretty soon.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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Aaron didn't speak, he merely did as he was told and went to the
General's side. His look to Chance was one of curiosity, especially
when he said something about the possiblity of Cyan being alive...
But Aaron shook it off, unable to believe. He'd seen...
..what? What had he seen? A broken sword? A crater in the earth?
All the more for him to continue down his current path, then, if just to get more information.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Dworkin (GM)
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The is a rising growl from the two Archons, though neither of them moves from where they hover.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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Chance glances at the general, sighs, and continues to concentrate. He begins to mumble the words now as he concentrates. "Fine,
warn Berd all you want. Just get my message to him, exactly as I sent
it- all of it. Look, I don't know who you are, either, but you
have to trust me when I say this is important."
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"I'll bite," the General mutters, and drives his metal-shod boot
into Chance's side. The impact is hard, but there is a lot more
going on than it looks like - the Warrior sacrifices power for push,
lifting Chance with a shocking exertion of brute strength.
To Chance, it's a heavy impact and a forceful push. To anyone
watching, it's a kick powerful enough to lift Chance from the ground.
Right continues to snarl like an angry saw, but Left falls
silent. When Chance stops whatever movement the kick imparts, the danioti shrinks down to a handspan in diameter and shoots forward to hover
before his eyes. And now, hanging before the Deathsinger, it
snarls out its own metallic fury.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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It was unnecessary, but Chance had done enough of his own stage stunts
to make it look good, adding a bit of a flourish to his aerial path. He
grunted with the blow and then lay flat, gasping for breath. He curls
to the side, favoring the spot where the heavy boot had landed.
He flattens out even more as the Archon approachs, clenching his teeth.
His breathing is still hard and bit ragged, though he's careful not to
overdo the act- the part that was an act. The general's kick was
impressive.
"Fine," he hisses. "I'm done; no more talking to them,
whoever it was- but I doubt I can keep them out of my head if they
don't want to be kept out. And you can be assured it isn't done
watching you. It's studying everything. Berd will have good tactical
information when he arrives to free us- you'll see."
To himself, but still loud enough to be heard, he mutters, "If it bothers to tell Berd at all."
"Leave me- any more conversation could get me killed. My life is already worth little to them as it is."
He closes his eyes, against the howling Archon before him and tries his
best to shut his mind against the outside voice talking to him.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by James
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The messenger stiffens slightly at being addressed by the General,
although it's not clear whether he was actually startled or merely
coming to attention.
After the initial moment's hesitation, the messenger obeys the General's command and approaches the tent.
"Sir. Paper and pen, sir?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Well, I'm sure if the message got through, Berd is on his way," the Warrior mutters. "Mind, I'm not sure it DID get through." He steps back. "I expect he'll come all the quicker if he's watching. Right, Left, no interference, now." The messenger moves toward them and the tent, and the Warrior shakes his helmed head when he gets close enough. "No, that's quite all right, James. I have everything I need here."
There is a pregnant pause.
The Warrior raises one finger. "I'm...disappointed,
Aaron. You've already failed the test, and before even taking the
oath. Chance, you're playing your own game, between not ratting
out James and setting up the dragon." A helmed glance at Chance. "Assuming that is indeed what you did."
Left snarls, a chilling, grating sound. + I LIKED YOU. + The Archon slips a touch closer to Chance's eyes.
"No interference."
With a frustrated, metallic scream, Left draws back. The Warrior
stands immobile beside Chance, glancing first to Aaron, then
James. Both men are within a few paces of him.
"I think the dragon will come," the General whispers in his helm, voice tense. Anticipatory.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by James
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James manner matches the General's tension, but his voice, for all that, is surprisingly calm.
"So, I am found out. I still think you need to
talk to your head of camp security. Or perhaps you are just more
patient than I am giving you credit for."
"I would bow, or salute, I suppose, but I'm inclined to think that
anyone taking orders from a creature like Harbonah deserves nothing
better than a quick death. So you'll have to pardon my
discourtesy."
James grip on the fake Ilsefranvir tightens, but he keeps the point
low. The fingers of his right hand flex, but he makes no move
towards Fangmir, yet.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
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"Ah, James," Chance smirks. "So it is you, indeed. Yeah, he
looked familiar but you got to remember, I only met him once. Hell,
half your camp looks like someone I met once. I'd look silly running
around pointing fingers at everyone I think I recognize from somewhere.
David looks like a guy who owes me money. The guy over there looks like
my sister. Yeah, he looked damned familiar, but seriously- how the hell
could James be here? Really, James, how the hell did you get here?"
More importantly, how did the general recognize James so easily when
Chance wasn't a hundred percent sure? Again, there was that nagging
feeling that he was missing something important here.
"Anyway, general, like I said- I didn't get through to Berd. Someone
else did contact me, though. My first reaction was to just scrap the
plan because I didn't know what was going to come of this new contact-
it smelled like disaster at first." He makes the slicing motion across his neck, careful not to touch the archon still in his face. "But
when you didn't- smart move in retrospect- I tried to play along. That
was a nice job with the kick, by the way. The being seemed to know
Berd, so I tried to convince it to get a message to him for me. The
only thing is, I could sense it was a strong mind and deeply studying
everything. I don't mean it was looking at the camp, but somehow
instantly studying every inch of the camp in detail. I don't know if my
playacting worked or not- it's certainly blown now, because I'm sure
it's still watching everything- but I tried my best. Of course, by now
it's probably informed Berd that I was working with you all along- that
might be problematic. My plan gambled on Berd coming in a hurry and
unprepared. Who knows when or how he'll show up, now."
He huffs a bit. "So if you doubt my loyalty at this juncture,
you're nuts. I did better than finger some officer that might be James.
I betrayed the dragon, the keystone of the whole resistance. What's
James got? All I know is what Luke told me- a good sword and a strong
arm. Berd, on the other hand; well I don't need to tell you how much
more a threat he is...."
On the other other hand, James looked about ready to run
someone through and it would probably be Chance. Even if they lived
through this, James would never forgive him. Sure, James was
level-headed and reasonable, but Chance wasn't playing games here.
James was the enemy, right now. No holds were barred. It didn't matter-
betraying Berd was enough. Even if they did live through it, they'd
never trust him again. The important thing was trying to keep everyone
alive.
The truth of the whole situation was becoming so muddled that even he
had lost track of it. He really did need that meal and long rest the
general had promised him. Most likely, he'd get neither.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron actually yawned.
"Look General, I don't get your game. Chance here has been trying to
play it, and valiant James," he said, raising his head to greet the
man. "Well, he's also made his attempt. Me? I've been as honest as a
newborn. No bitching, no bullshit, remember General?"
He folded his hands before his belt, consdering his captor.
"All I want is a new road to walk. I'm sick of all the crap, so I'm in
the mood for a new outlook on life. If that outlook ends here, well,
then all's been said and done. If I wanted to play games, I'd have sat
my ass in Amber and become a court-monkey."
Aaron sighed, looking down at his hands.
"Unless, of course, you're not in the position to do anything about my situation, and this entire thing is just one huge charade to get all of the important pieces in one place... which
wouldn't surprise me. I've run into stranger things; Archons halting in
fear and all that crap."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Oh, no, James. Patience is not one of my virtues." The Warrior's free hand flexes. "And one who serves those who leash the freedom of the universe has no place pointing fingers." He studies the other man for a long moment. "But
you and I are soldiers, yes? We believe in a cause, and we follow
that cause. Even if it asks us some unpleasantness along the way."
The helm twists and regards Chance. It's a long speech, but the
General lets him get it out, and Aaron is given an opportunity for his
say, as well. Finally the Warrior nods.
"Chance, your point is clear. And it shall not matter in a
moment if we are being watched, as you will see. I hope you
understand my suspicion." It isn't a question.
"Aaron...you never pointed James out to me, and I am certain you
recognized him. 'No bitching, no bullshit'...and no rather
critical information, such as 'there's a spy in your tent,
Warrior'. I was deeply disappointed." The
General's voice lowers on the last words, grated through clenched
teeth. Aaron's accusation that this was all set up in advance is
flat-out ignored.
"If you want a new road, perforce you need open a gate." A wave of the hand indicates James. "There is your gate, Aaron. Capture him." The helm turns to Chance again. "I'm betting that brings the dragon running," the Warrior mutters, "assuming he's watching."
Left swings back a little toward the scene before a glance from the General stops the danioti. Then the armored figure pauses. "Unless
of course this is an unorthodox method of issuing a personal challenge,
James. In which case I'm only too happy to accept."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance nodded at the general's words. Then he looked from Aaron to
James and back again. He honestly wasn't sure what Aaron would do at
this point, though he suspected he wouldn't go as far as actually
harming a comrade.
"Good call," Chance mutters. "This should be good."
He scoops up his guitar nearby, sensing that things are about to get
very interesting one way or another. It's not an aggressive move. The
guitar has always been something of a security blanket for him. He
slings the strap over his shoulder and lets it rest at his side in a
travel position.
He leans towards the general a bit. "Taking bets on which way he goes?" The words are soft, but probably still loud enough for Aaron to hear on the other side.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Aaron
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The grin that appeared on Aaron's face was almost mad. He unsheathed
his blade, staring at James with one shifting eye. He flicked his
wrist, Ilsefranvir's eight blades rotating in place as they shifted and
reformed.
"No hard feelings, James." Aaron said, his grin disappearing as he nodded to the General.
"Just so you know, I didn't recognize him until Chance said something. Assumptions are bad for the health, sir."
Spreading his feet apart, Aaron casually rested Ilse by his side and took a step forwards.
"It'll be easier for you if you don't struggle, James. We can forgoe violence altogether."
There was a sigh. "This is insane." Arianne said from his side, and Aaron shrugged. "Gotta do what you've gotta do, dear."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by James
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"No. I don't think that's going to work, Aaron. But if you don't mind, I'd really rather fight him." James finally draws Fangmir and levels it at the General while still speaking to Aaron.
"I've watched you wither, Aaron. Dying from
the inside out like a tree cut off from its roots. Especially
since Cyan was lost. I've no doubt you're still a dangerous
opponent, but you've no spirit left to break. Frankly, you're not
worth fighting."
James pivots to address the General. "Whereas
it seems to me we serve the same purpose: Fighting those who threaten
the freedom of the universe. Whomever you think I serve, I assure
you that Harbonah's worse. But I don't expect to persuade
you. So, since you seem so eager, let's fight. Let Aaron
find some other way to prove himself."
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by The Warrior in Jet and Gold
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"Frankly, it wouldn't be much of a test if I knew, would it?" the General mutters back to Chance. He nods, appreciatively, as Aaron moves forward to engage James.
But then the intruder changes the script.
"Aaron. Stop." The Warrior holds up his free hand, the one not buried to the wrist within Right. "That would be a challenge. While I'd rather see how well you pass the test...." He steps forward, away from Chance, and Left floats to take his place, silent, coldly furious. "This one's mine."
Oddly enough, with that declaration the Warrior seems to relax within
his armor. Almost as though a final decision has been made and,
like or leave, he must stick with it to the bitter end.
Another step forward. "Truthfully, I am not eager to
fight you, James. Not at all. As for 'worse'...such things
are relative, James. Have you experienced both sides of the
story?" He barely raises his voice, but suddenly by some trick of tone it carries over the 'dueling ground'. "No interference. Understood? Not unless we have new visitors!" Then he returns to a more personal tone. "Would it surprise you to know, James, that I regret this?"
"Left. Right. None from you, either. Speaking of which, Right...."
+ YES, GENERAL. + Strangely enough, both danioti seem caught up in the solemnity of the situation, with no banter or
insults being exchanged. Right merely pulls back along the
General's gauntleted wrist.
And further. Past the pommel, past the grip in the General's
hand, past the simple, yet alien hilt, and then down, carefully down,
the long, black blade. A hand and a half sword, perhaps a trifle
longer than sturdy Fangmir. The metal holds a strange sheen,
almost like that of obsidian dipped in oil. Except its edges -
they shine with a pale fire.
"I would offer you armor, but I suspect you would refuse. Besides which, you are better off without it."
The Warrior in Jet and Gold salutes James with the hand and a half sword - a fine match for the gleaming, deadly Fangmir.
"The challenger shall begin," he states, quietly courteous.
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Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James remains silent. Words seem superfluous. The situation
has resolved itself, arriving at this culminating moment with a curious
inevitability. He is tempted still: to explain the horror of
violence and slavery that Meredith had shown him of Harbonah; to speak
in defence of his largely-unknown family; to explain that no, it's not
really a surprise; even to confirm the General's assumption that James
would fight unarmoured.
Instead, a practiced flick of the wrist sends the fake Ilsefranvir
point-first into the ground a pace or two away. Even as he had no
faith in conventional armour to protect him from the General's
fiery-black bastard sword, the forgery would never hold and he was
practiced with a single blade. None other than Fangmir would
suffice.
James draws himself up in a formal salute. His time as a
swordsman is regrettably short, the movements learnt short months ago
from Bleys. But Bleys was an acknowledged master and for an
instant James moves with the preternatural grace befitting a scion of
Amber.
There are no dice in his head, now. No luck this time. Just
the point of the sword and the point of the moment. James takes
guard...and waits.
===========================================================
Re: Part 49c - The Warrior in Jet and Gold by Chance
-----------------------------------------------------------
Chance sighs somewhat heavily. This was an unexpected development and
very unusual considering Berd could show up at any moment. Was that
good or bad to have the general and Berd so close to each other?
As the gathering soldiers press in, he pushes his way to front unwilling to be denied the show.
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