NationStates Jolt Archive

(OOC: This is a stroyline 'violently' extracted from the Shentavo Academy: Year 2 thead in order to get it back on-topic. This is mainly of interest for Rave Shentavo, Valinon and myself. There's a sum-up of what happened so that everything is clear)

It all began because of love. Michael Vaughn, leader of Underaloz, whose real name is Zacharian and who happens to be the magical creation of a Vampire and an Elf that wanted to have children, fell in love with Ravelyn Shentavo, former leader of the land she created, a scientific experiment who went wrong when the soul of an angel decided this perfect body was its and which gained even more power when she met an ancient vampire who decided to sire her.

What happened when he realized he truly loved her was quite surprising: his heart which hadn't ever beaten in his entire and quite long existence suddenly came back to life. But it was not the only heart to start beating at that exact moment. Cecilia, Vaughn's former wife, came back to life... at least her heart, in a cupel to be found in a cavern far away in the Great Gobi Desert.

To clearly understand the relationship between Vaughn/Zacharian and Cecilia, one must know a little more about Vaughn. He is the member of an ancient order known as the Knights. His father's heritage leaved him with a unique ability: he can stepped into the shadows and enter a black and white fac-simile of the real world, the Dark Path.

Within the Dark Path, no artificial creations can be seen and one who is trained can travel great distances at great speed using his own will, provided he has a ground to walk on. But the Dark Path is far more than another world. It is, in fact, a security area around a frontier, the Barrier. When within the Dark Path, someone practicing the Narcht magical art can see a gigantic piece of fabric in place of the sky. This is the Barrier, the only thing that separates us from them. Nobody knows exactly who or what they are. Demons? Shadows? An ancient dragonic culture that went terribly evil? That's still a mystery but fact is the Barrier is the only thing that keeps them from invading our world.

In order to pierce or break the Barrier, they usually try to bargain with powerful beings, reaching them using very powerful telepathic means or remains of their culture that are still in our world. Of course, their most feared enemies are the Knights. But they do know the Knights are cursed: whoever practices the Narcht art is cursed and, once dead, will have his soul passing on the other side of the Barrier... where they will be able to play with it for eternity.

Cecilia and Vaughn/Zacharian were in love. They knew it and decided to use it. One day, as Vaughn/Zacharian wasn't around, they approached Cecilia and bargained with her. At first, Vaughn/Zacharian didn't see it and he realized what had happened far too late: Cecilia was completly perverted by them and he had no choice but to kill her... apparently, they didn't let it happen and point is Cecilia's heart, kept inside a sort of stasis in the Great Gobi Desert came back to life when Vaughn/Zacharian accepted his feelings towards Rave.

An explorer from Scotland, McLean, did enter the temple when the heart was and had no choice but to obey Cecilia's will. He took the heart to another place where an ancient artefact of them was located : a completly dark knife. Without even being able to resist, McLean plunged the knife into his chest and replaced his own heart with Cecilia's. She was now completly back to life.

That event made Vaughn/Zacharian's sister, Elaïne, awaken. She didn't know what was going on but went to see her brother and his fiancée in order to tell them something big enough had happened for her to get out of her sleep. She had investigated in the Great Gobi Desert already and knew about the secret temple and soon discovered the knife had been stolen. Vaughn/Zacharian and Rave decided to go and see what was going on. He had heard Cecilia's voice in his head ordering him not to touch Rave anymore and went there apparently decided to give his life if necessary. Rave didn't see it that way.

The confrontation was short but quite unbelievable. Rave decided to sacrifice her life to save Vaughn/Zacharian's, asking her former partners to help her. At a point, Cecilia managed to stab Vaughn/Zacharian's in the heart, killing him, and disapear. Rave asked the angels to take her life for his and so they did. But Vaughn/Zacharian sent his last wishes to his sister before his last breathe. Elaïne's soul travelled to the very limits of Heaven itself and took Rave's soul back. Finally, she put it inside the only body that was still alive at the time: Vaughn/Zacharian's one. As they were both dead at a point, Rave and Vaughn/Zacharian's souls had a conversation. Rave begged him to accept her sacrifice but he refused. Nevertheless, he told her someone could help her reaching him again: his apprentice, Alexei. But he told her not to try and soon his soul passed on the other side of the Barrier.

All what Rave knew was that Alexei was from Valinon, a nation that had left Earth centuries ago. She didn't knew of the events that had occured on the Enclave, the planet on which Underaloz is located. It was not an accident if Vaughn/Zacharian had shown such interest into this planet. Since the discovery of an alien satellite revolving around Earth and of the gateways on it that lead to the Enclave, Vaughn/Zacharian decided he had to go and see what was going on these new lands.

As he expected, he discovered another gateway there: the Mirror. Much bigger than the other and apparently completly inactive. But he had symbols on it that lead him to believe this was the Gate of the Souls, a door to Hell as some legends stated. Since Underaloz's technologic level wasn't high enough to investigate further, Vaugh/Zacharian asked for international help and soon Valinon sent people to help. As they were discussing about the Mirror, it suddenly switched on. Vaughn/Zacharian and three persons of Valinon, Craddock, Alexei and a third one who were to die behind the Mirror decided to traverse the gateway in order to stop it. The other side was as Vaughn/Zacharian feared: it was the other side of the Barrier. They managed to discover the energy source of the gateway, destroy it and get back home. However, Alexei got touched by strange shadow-made beings and Vaughn/Zacharian had no choice but to kill him, bringing him back to life with his own blood, automatically initiating him into the Narcht art.

With the unexpected help of Witz, Vaughn/Zacharian left arm, and Genesis, the first person Rave ever sired, Rave finally figured out who Alexei was and flee to the Enclave, her soul inside Vaughn's body and her own dead body next to her. Craddock was now ambassador of Valinon at Underaloz. A reunion took place at the embassy where they all agreed the Mirror had been closed and there was no way to get it opened again. However, they searched for other Mirrors on the planet and managed to find 6 more thanks to the insights of a mysterious man, known as Noname, that has sweared to protect Witz against a 'spirit of the Earth'. As if she knew where to go, Rave had pointed at one of the 6 points on the map.

"This one."

(ooc: Just have to mark this thread so I don't loose it... *slaps big red ex on the thread* There ^_^ :D )

Who thought of this story? That was really good. But if you guys thought of it yourselves, you have more free time than me (and I do absolutely nothing all day long).

Who thought of this story? That was really good. But if you guys thought of it yourselves, you have more free time than me (and I do absolutely nothing all day long).
(OOC: well, the whole background of Vaughn/Zacharian is mine, the background of Rave is hers, the whole Mirror thing is a RP that took place between Valinon and I and the whole Cecilia awakening, killing Vaughn and soul 'exchange' is a RP that took place between Rave and I)

Genesis leans on Witz slightly, resting her head on his shoulder.
Genesis: I really never thought our vacation would turn out like this...*she said softly, her long blonde hair hugging at her hips. Her ice blue eyes sparkeled and danced as she watched the hologram. Rave seemed completely sure of which one it was...*

Rave continued to look at the hologram, than at her body, the knife still in her chest. She wondered if the sacrifice she made would prove futile...and Vaughn would still be lost forever, and she'd be stuck in his body forever, reminding her of her mistakes. No...no..this had to work. She had to see him again, to be with him again. She wouldn't give up hope until she would dead.

Witz looked up at Genesis.

"Do you think... do you think there is any chance we could get him back?"

He looked at Noname.

"Who are you?
- I am Noname.
- You know Vaughn, don't you?" Witz insisted looking deeply at Noname's expressionless face.
"I have heard about him, yes."

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

Vaughn looked around, helpless.

Great, I can't get in there. I can't get into the shadows anymore.

He looked at the red sky.

"And I didn't meet anyone. This is not looking good. At all," he muttered to himself.

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

Sarkonivia tried to figure out what was going on.

"But the Sorceress killed him, didn't she?
- Yes my Lord.
- So why is it the angel that is here now?
- I don't know, my Lord."

Sarkonivia didn't like that.

I have a small county, I'm not prepared for this kind of things.

He looked intensely at his man.

"All right, bring me a Souvenir. I'll send a message to the Grand Master. Hopefully, he'll send some troops and we'll be able to blast this being of light into oblivion."

Sarkonivia managed to smile, his draconic eyes were like pulsating.

You're on the wrong side of the Barrier, my dear.

Genesis: Yes...yes I do. If Rave is sure about this, than I am with her. *she glances at noname for a moment, then looks back at Witz* She's on a mission...and she's never aborted one before...

___

If he...if I...Vaughn has my celestial powers. Healing, restoration, creating, light... *she thought to herself* If he is still alive...then will he be able to control them? If he is...he MUST be...I hope he realizes what he has...I just wish I knew what I had.. *she looks at her lifeless body, and wishes Vaughn had not refused her sacrifice. She would be dead, and Vaughn would be alive, not the other way around. *

Genesis: Yes...yes I do. If Rave is sure about this, than I am with her. *she glances at noname for a moment, then looks back at Witz* She's on a mission...and she's never aborted one before...

___

If he...if I...Vaughn has my celestial powers. Healing, restoration, creating, light... *she thought to herself* If he is still alive...then will he be able to control them? If he is...he MUST be...I hope he realizes what he has...I just wish I knew what I had.. *she looks at her lifeless body, and wishes Vaughn had not refused her sacrifice. She would be dead, and Vaughn would be alive, not the other way around. *
Noname looked at Rave then back at Genesis.

"Can I ask a question?"

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

Vaughn had sat down. He had his hands, her hands onto her head.

I have to remember. F*ck it! I don't know half what she's capable of.

He tried to remember the first time the met.

I was too far, I didn't see what she did to enter the building and Coro took a lot on his own... and against the other, she was too weak. God damnit, I don't know what I can do with her powers.

He laughed.

"She's alive at least," he muttered to himself. "And I'm sure she's as puzzled as I am. I just hope she will not try anything foolish."

Genesis: Of course..anything.*she smiled*

____________

Rave/Vaughn: Bloody hell...*she put her hands...his hands onto his head.* I don't know what to do...I don't know what he can do...when he broke my arm...when he saved me... *she said to herself*

Noname stared at Vaughn/Rave.

"Is she your sensei?" he asked Genesis.

Genesis: Yes, you could call her that. I was her apprentice in sourcery as well as in psionics. She was my sire in the order of vampires, making me her fledgling. She was the closest thing I ever came to a mother...

She was all of our mothers...Qui, Seni, Seth...all of us.

Genesis: Yes, you could call her that. I was her apprentice in sourcery as well as in psionics. She was my sire in the order of vampires, making me her fledgling. She was the closest thing I ever came to a mother...

She was all of our mothers...Qui, Seni, Seth...all of us.

Noname remained silent. Apparently, he had his answer. Witz was still staring at him.

Once we have Vaughn back, we'll see if you'll still be that silent, he thought. We will find out who you're working for and I'll have a serious conversation with him.

He looked down at his glass, picked up a bottle of whiskey and served himself another glass.

Number 12, he realized. How come I'm not drunk?

Genesis smiled. "It took me 13 before i felt it..." she laughed at this, thne poured herself a glass. "This has turned out to be quite an adventure...let's hope it has a happy ending though..." *She looked at the floor*

Witz turned at Gene in a very surprised gesture.

Damnit, I keep on forgetting she can read minds.

"Still, 12... for me... it's a lot," Witz told her.

Genesis could spot a subtle smile on Noname's face as Witz was saying that.

Genesis: Sorry..it's just...I'm concentrating so hard, trying to locate Vaughn...I really didn't mean to read you're mind...you just have the closest connection to him... *She smiled slightly embarassed she had said anything. She caught noname's smile. Maybe he wasn't indifferent after all*

"Don't worry! It's not like I have anything to hide from you," He replied with a smile.

Except a divorce, 5 years in secret services and a change of identity, he couldn't help to think.

Noname's face was back to normal. Neutral.

Genesis and she attempted to get into Rave...er..Vaughn's mind. She couldn't though...it was as if her soul and his mind would not let even her in. SHe smiled at this, knowing that he/she was well protected from secrets or information that didn't want to be revealed. She looked at noname..neutral once again. Then to Witz, and smiled. She was happy she hadn't lost him.

The Grand Master put the Souvenir in his palm and let his mind gather the information. After a moment, he had a cruel smile.

So Cecilia failed, he thought. Never trust an elf to do a decent job.

He violently threw the Souvenir on the ground. The gem exploded into thousands of pieces. He growled at the remains and finally smashed them with his foot.

"He will find the other accesses and he will come to save her. Knights are so predictable," he muttered as he was watching the pieces spread all around the throne room.

They won't get back to the other side. Ever.

"You!" He pointed at a guard. "Bring Azerzdat before me. Immediatly."

Rave: Vaughn..*she whipsered to herself as well as in her mind. IF only love could break the barrier they'd be all set*..can you here me?

_____________

This was not meant to be..

--We can't control her sir..

We controled her before didn't we!?!

--That was before she woke up..

She was never meant to have a soul

--Sir...we have just heard news that...

---

Bring her to me...no, wait a while...let her suffer.

(OOC: good call... and many bad guys gathering... uh oh :twisted: )

This time I'm sure I didn't dream, Vaughn thought as he heard Rave's voice in the very depths of his mind. How could this be?

He concentrated. His body was now surrounded by a white an electric energy.

Rave? he sent in a desperate attempt to reach his love.

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

Azerzdat bent before the Grand Master.

"You asked for me, my Lord.
- Apparently so," The Grand Master replied angrily.

He was sat in his throne, from where he was the demon looked much smaller than he actually was.

And to think we managed to capture this thing.

"Azerzdat, I have a mission for you.
- Command and I'll obey, my Lord.
- Tell me... what was you speciality when you were in your world?"

Azerzdat hesitated. He knew the Grand Master was perfectly aware of what he was. This was getting interesting.

"I was a hunter, my Lord. I tracked and killed the enemies of my former master.
- Good.... good... these enemies being...?
- Beings of light, my Lord."

The Grand Master smiled, already picturing the head of Ravelyn Shentavo on a pike.

"You were good at it, weren't you?
- I am the best, my Lord."

That was true. Wouldn't he have spent all of his energy battling against thirty angels, they would never have been able to capture him.

"That's a good thing, because there is a being of light on my grounds. And I want you to kill her."

Azerzdat bent respectfully. He was happy.

"Of course, my master."

Rave: Vaughn!? You heard me? Are you safe...are you alright?!? *she said desperately increasing the energy she exerted on communication*

Witz stared at Vaughn/Rave as dark energy was spreading from him/her. :shock:

I c.. hear... wor... diffic... Rave received as an answer.

Rave: He's safe... *she thought to herself* Tell me, do you have my body? My powers..... *she focused harder*

Witz saw a blade before as Noname had quickly taken his position between him and Rave/Vaughn.

...sou... pow... unkno... Rave received.

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

"My Lord! My Lord!
- What?"

The Grand Master stared at the newcomer. He waved at Azerzdat.

"You can go now, demon. And don't fail me."

As Azerzdat was getting out of the Throne Room, the servant got closer to the Grand Master who stared at him.

"What?
- The angel, she's communicating with the other side.
- What?!?
- It's... strange."

The servant handed another Souvenir to the Grand Master.

Something else to break into pieces? The Grand Master thought, amused, as he was putting the gem into his palm.

He concentrated and heard the conversation. The feminine voice was calling the masculine voice Rave and the masculine voice was calling the feminine one Vaughn. He was puzzled.

After a moment, thinking intensely, he gave the gem back to the servant, stood up and walked to a little door on one side of the room.

"Tell Salerz to join me at the library."

Rave: Listen to me....remember my image...the one I showed you in heaven...how you saw me...light brown hair, amber eyes, fair skin, white wings....remember that...think of me...in the purest form of love...and the celestial powers will become evident in you...you will know what to do. *she was almost in tears now, Vaughn was alive*

*That's how I controlled my powers...* (she thought quietly to herself)

Genesis pushed noname back from Rave/Vaughn and stood between them.
Genesis: Touch her...I'll kill you...*she said hopelessly defending her sire*

Noname stared at Genesis.

"I'm here to protect, not to attack," he said.

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

The servant runned after the Grand Master.

"But... but, My Lord, do we let these communications pass?"

The Grand Master stopped and turned at him.

"Of course not, do block them. Immediatly. Block all communications... except the doors to our homeland.
- But...
- Don't discuss my orders."

I need Zacharian or who he is now to take one of these doors or else, we'll never be able to get rid of him.

He then walked to the library.

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

Vaughn tried to read the words.

Lis... me....member...mage...showed... heaven...saw me...row... hair... er eyes... skin, white wi....reme...think of me...in the pure... of lo...and...

It vanished suddenly.

They spotted us. He thought, trying to make sense out of the message.

When Rave heard no reply, she fell to the ground, unable ot beleive that she had been cut off..Cut off? Suddenly it came to her...someone had heard those messages..blocking them. She stood up slowely, wondering who would do such a thing. She looked at the others in the room from Valinon.
Rave: We need to get to Vaughn...Now! *she looked at the hologram and repeated* That one....

Genesis backed down, and stood by Witz, leaning her head on his shoulder gently.
___________________

How could you let this project get out of hand?

---Me sir? It was you who wanted her constructed.

You carried it out though. She has a soul damnit! And one of an angel! an archangel you fool!

--we have let it pass for quite some time...she has a nation now..

I want that angel dead and I want her nation as well...kill anyone that gets in the way...better yet...activate it.

--but sir...

Activate it.

(ooc: activate it? GN0! I'm scared ;) )

Salerz looked up the book and stared at the Grand Master.

"So?" The Grand Master asked.

Salerz handed him the book. The Grand Master face changed of color. It became more pale.

"That's impossible," he said. "His father was...
- A vampire, yes, I know... but...
- But this would be an explanation."

The Grand Master closed the book.

Let us hope that's not it.

--sir, it's activated but,

But what?!

--It seems that the angel...she's dead...

She is vampiric mind you..

--no sir, that's not what I meant...

What did you mean?

--Sir, she has no soul...she's really dead...

It's impossible!...she...can't...she can't be..

(OOC: bwahahahaha! We broke their toy ;) )

Azerzdat had read the Souvenir. It was a being of light and darkness he would have to fight.

That's even better, he though. Those fools have no clue what they're offering to me. With so much power, I'll be able to complete my transformation.

He smiled, uncovering his hundred of teeth. He closed his three eyes, took a deep breathe and jumped out the window.

Damn, it's so good to fly again.

(lol...you'll find out...their do anything to protect they're weapon...I wonder what their weapon is.... :P )

--sir...sir...her soul...is still there..not in her body though.

Where?

--in Underaloz sir...

Get me there immediately...

--yes...yes sir.

Forget it...I'll get there faster myself...*he vanishes*

--I hate it when he does that.

--I hate it when he does that.
(OOC: woah! I happen to be a great fan of this sentence. Probably the best line in all of Episode II right after "Why do I have the feeling you're going to be the end of me?" :) )

Vaughn pondered his situation but finally concluded he didn't know enough about them to be able to anticipate their moves.

"Sounds like a lot of fun to come," he whispered.

He was trying to find meaning into the pieces of words he had received from Rave. "think of me" was the only part he managed to understand.

As if I could avoid to.

(ooc: OMG I HAVE A PERFECT MIDI for Rave and Vaughn lol...i'll put it in, but later, at the right moment.. :D )
Vaughn/Rave: I miss you so much... *she thought softly to herself...* I'll always love you...no matter what happens...

________________

Damn this planet...I never liked the enclave. Why do I have the feeling you're gonna be the end of me, Ravelyn? (OOC: :P )

Noname put his katana back on his side. He looked at Witz.

He has no clue who he really is, the swordsman thought as he stepped behind Witz's chair. Nor have the immortals. Exactly as he promised.

He took a deep breathe. Air was transporting pieces of information to him. He was constantly on the edge, receiving reports and giving orders. He had a clan to lead after all. But the danger was too important. There were beings hiding everywhere, like this one he sensed before Genesis stupidly made him go away.
He couldn't let another Multiple disapear. Witz had to survive. Sometimes, he wasn't really sure to be the best for such a task but he didn't know of any Multiple to whom he could have asked. Beside, protecting Witz was part of the deal... the deal he had made with Vaughn.

Genesis looked at Witz..
Genesis: She grows impaceint...we need to get her to the other side as quickly as possible...she's worried..*she said looking at Vaughn*

Rave couldn't help but to think of Vaughn every second that passed by. She knew that the time wasted in doing nothing could be the difference between life and death. Indeed she grew rather impacient, but kept it hidden...she couldn't keep it from Gene though. Vaughn... *she whispered to herself.

Sarkonivia stared at his man.

"One man? ONE MAN?!? That's all the Grand Master sent me?"

This is a joke, right?

He pushed the servant away and walked into the Hall.

"Well, whoever you are I hope..."

Sarkonivia was face to face with a chest. He slowly looked up and finally saw him: Azerzdat. The demon smiled at the prefect, looking down at him as if he was insignificant.

"You were saying, my Lord?"

Sarkonivia stepped back, uncomfortable.

"I see... you... you must the demon that was... ahem... captured not so long ago."

He spotted the necklace and was glad this thing was there to ensure Azerzdat doesn't do anything foolish... like cutting the throat of a prefect.

"Yes, I am the demon known as Azerzdat," the demon said. "And I'm here for the being of light.
- Yes of course... hehehe..." stupid smile. "...of course. Do... Do you need anything? Men? Food? Anything?
- No, I would just need the last known location of the being of light, my Lord."

Azerzdat's cavernous voice echoed into the castle.

I hate demons, Sarkonivia thought. They smell and sound bad.

Completly aware of the prefect's thoughts, Azerzdat smiled even more.

Wait for me to have completed my transformation and you'll see... you'll see what a demon is capable of, insect.

"Well," Sarkonivia said. "Let's get to the command room, we'll look at some maps there."

Din landed on the cold ground, closing his demonic wings behind him. The locator was picking up a signal from her body in a central tower. Would she even know who he was? He doubted it greatly, considering the last time she opened her eyes to him, it was from inside a tank filled with a hazy liquid.

Din: I will find out why this happened to me...why you're god damn soul made me this way...*he said to himself softly* Then, I will kill you...*He laughed to himself and spread his leathery black wings. There were small holes in bettween were flesh should have been, and some black bone was apparent...He made his way to the tower...walking at first...then taking off to the skies. This time, the angel of death had someone coming for her.

Noname looked deeply at Genesis. It was as if he was trying to determine something, like an internal conversation. He closed his eyes and suddenly drew out his Katana.

"Something is coming. Flying. Great power."

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

Vaughn walked to a group of rocks.

From the top of these, I'll be able to spot any activity in the valley.

He was anxious. Something was wrong, he could feel it in his very soul, a feeling he wasn't used to. Suddenly, he heard the sound of something passing at great speed in the air. He looked up.

Azerzdat landed on the rocks and smiled with a cruel spark in the eyes.

"Hello there. I think you and I have to talk."

OOC: Where are we at now? *curses school for starting earlier*

OOC: Where are we at now? *curses school for starting earlier*
(OOC: Still at the same than when you left, except Noname just has spotted a potential danger nearing the embassy. Most of my posts are related to what's happening on the other side of the Barrier. The big sum-up and browsing through the posts quickly shouldn't take that much time but we're basically at that. Beside Rave won't be online right now, but I guess we can have her characters on the move for the sake of it and making the plot progress)

Craddock has sent the orders necessary to set events in motion. Alexei reenters the room.
"The teams are nearly ready, My Lord," Alexei hands Craddock a comp-pad.
"Excellent. We weren't prepared for the Mirror the last time, but this time we will be," Craddock skims through the list. Three squads of Sardaukar equipped in the best armour available and with the heaviest weapons in the embassy armoury. Plus Alexei has had the HMS Dozle send down three HAVOK TNW.
"Prepare three shuttles, I wish to depart soon. Inform Mr. Witz, Madam Shentavo, Keigo, and Mr. Vaughn, or whoever there in."
"Yes, My Lord."

Witz stared at Noname.

"What are you talking about?
- I'm saying someone or something is heading our way. Flying. Powerful being."

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

I hope the demon won't fail, The Grand Master thought as he was walking in circle, nervous. If he doesn't fullfill his duty, it may very well be the end.

A servant entered in a hurry.

"My Lord, all is set. The security is at its maximum. But Sir...
- WHAT?!?
- Err... My Lord... I... Why all this..."

The Grand Master had grabbed the servant by the neck with his left hand and threw him against a wall. The man was dead. The Grand Master looked at the body.

"That's something you don't need to know."

Sicko, my balls are mine, now leave me presents and then leave me alone!

Sicko, my balls are mine, now leave me presents and then leave me alone!
(OOC: King Galahad, I do hope you'll stop spamming my threads, because, quite frankly, I wouldn't like to have to post about it in the Moderation forum)

Sicko, my balls are mine, now leave me presents and then leave me alone!
(OOC: King Galahad, I do hope you'll stop spamming my threads, because, quite frankly, I wouldn't like to have to post about it in the Moderation forum)

sorry, bye then

Security at the Valinon embassy to Underaloz is tight. Captain Trotsky has ordered that security forces at the embassy be doubled. Regular, but yet concealed, patrols now guard the embassy with utmost scrutiny. The grim Sardaukar watch over the small slice of Valinon as if it were the Fatherland itself. Sir Craddock informed the embassy staff to be on alert as well, and ask that they show defference to the Sardaukar as the situation calls for.

******

On the well-maintained and elegantly appointed aerospace port, Sir Craddock carefully checks over the preparations being made. He watches as unmarked containers are loaded into the shuttles. And finally, he watches as the crew from the cruiser in orbit carefull manuvers a series of heavily armoured and secured tube containers into place. Script in flowing red denotes warnings in several languages reading hazardous material.
"Well at least somethings never change," Craddock smiles slightly as he checks the HAVOKs of his list on his comp-pad. Then there is a screeching overhead, Craddock looks up. It is a small Windjammer sonic jet, and it bares the markings of the embassy. Craddock watches as the Windjammer taxis in and comes to a stop. A ramp descends and Bayushi Shoju slowly descends with several ESS men close behind. The Scorpion rapidly crosses the distance between Craddock and himself.
"Planning an expedition, My Lord?"
"Of shorts, Vice Director."
"To where?"
"A scientific mission to the Enclave," Craddock says imposing himself between the open shuttle ramp and the Scorpion.
"A science mission with HAVOK weapons? Planning on retesting Einstein's Theory of Relativity?" the Scorpion lord smiles.
"Perhaps," Craddock knows he is caught.
"I shall accompany you then."
"You do not have the clearance, Bayushi."
"Then perhaps I need to contact Director Ziegler?"
Craddock stands still and silent.
"I shall prepare my men."
"Do not be late. I will not have the shuttles wait," Craddock manages as the Scorpion begins to leave.
"I will make certain that I am not, My Lord."

Vaughn/Rave: Give me an hour...I have to get to the other side of the barrier...an hour is all I need... *she said at the man approaching whom was told to prepare the shuttles*
Vaughn...I hope you're alright....please...control my..your powers...think of me....you'll be able to do it... *realizing then she couldn't get through..she sighed* I love you....


Genesis looks at noname..
Genesis: I can sense it as well...feels...almost..like an ancient.*she said puzzled.

___

Din landed on the top of the tower and dropped through the roof in the blink of an eye. He folded his demonic wings, or what was left of them, behind him. His dark black eyes shifted as he followed the locator..he came to a room. Inside that room was the body...and the soul of the one he created...but...he sensed she was dead...but then how could her soul still be there...he placed his hand on the door.

Genesis feels a sulking prescence and turns around to see Nelson.
*You sense it to. We must know what it is, and why we too can sense it. We have lost twelve telepaths trying to find out, and Director Vacit is worried. We did not have these problems until our science expedition returned from Underaloz. What do you people know?*

Din landed on the top of the tower and dropped through the roof in the blink of an eye. He folded his demonic wings, or what was left of them, behind him. His dark black eyes shifted as he followed the locator..he came to a room. Inside that room was the body...and the soul of the one he created...but...he sensed she was dead...but then how could her soul still be there...he placed his hand on the door.

(OOC: this Din is the invisible man. The Central Tower is awfully well-guarded, mind you ;) )

"He's coming back! He's coming back!" The guard was shouting as loud as he could.

The form get down from the air directly inside the castle. Azerzdat walked inside the Hall. Sarkonivia just had rushed in.

"Does... Did you... Is she?
- The being of light is no more," Azerzdat said with a jovial face before laughing out loud. "It was as if the being had no clue how to attack a demon."

He laughed even louder, a laugh echoed by the walls of red rock.

Genesis: Nothing...*she turns to Witz and whispers as softly as possible* There is someone behind that door...*she looks at it again and exchanges glances with Rave/Vaughn.*

Rave/Vaughn: I have never sensed this enery signature before...it seems somewhat familiar...I cannot remember...

Genesis: Hm.....Yes Nelson I sense it...*she said softly. She never took her eyes off the door*

Noname stepped in direction of the door.

"I will handle that," he said looking at Genesis with a strangely calm tone. "Go. Go with Mr.Witz. He is the one that does matter."

(Din can diffuse through almost anything given he had enough time and enough concentration to do so....wait a minute?!! IS Vaughn's soul dead?!?!?!?!?!?!?)

Genesis: I'm not sure if it's Witz he's after...seems older to me...as if dealing with me or...*looks at the lifeless body of Rave...then at Vaughn*

Vaughn/Rave: I haven't senesed this person before, or I can't recall when I had...Genesis, protect Witz...

Genesis: Nothing...*she turns to Witz and whispers as softly as possible* There is someone behind that door...*she looks at it again and exchanges glances with Rave/Vaughn.*

Rave/Vaughn: I have never sensed this enery signature before...it seems somewhat familiar...I cannot remember...

Genesis: Hm.....Yes Nelson I sense it...*she said softly. She never took her eyes off the door*

Nelson watches as Mr. Witz begins to leave.
*None of you are leaving this time, Madam Shentavo. We must know, and this time we must have a secure answer.*
Approaching from the other side of the corner. Three men and a women join Nelson. One man has a set of six saw-blade like objects orbiting him, and the others join Nelson.
*You see, in order to survive, and help the Empire in the war coming even now from the Rim, we must secure this threat first. Otherwise, our resources will be unable to tackle a two front war for His Majesty.*

Noname laughed. He *did* laugh.

"Keigo," he said. "Take care of the people of Valinon with your sensei. I take care of the one behind the door."

Suddenly a squad of Sarduakar (12) round the corner. Keigo notices their blank and lifeless stairs. They move as being orchestrated, mere puppets of anothers will.
Nelson turns to the new arrivals.
*Restrain them, Lieutenant* Genesis hears.
The Sardaukar squad advances, and at the same time, the man with the orbiting saws lets his moonlets fly forth, buzzing toward Keigo.

Genesis stood protectively in front of Witz.
Genesis: What exactly do you mean? *she asked confused, taking her concentration off of the door. After a while, the door began to open... Din peered into the room, smiling, as if he meant no harm what do ever. He saw the body on the ground, and rushed to it...

Vaughn/Rave: *grips him on the shoulder* Who the hell are you! Get away from her! *he pushes him back*

Din: My name is Din...I created her..*he said with a twisted smile* Wretched creature she turned out to be...wrecking my entire lab...thank God she is dead....Who are you?

Vaughn/Rave: :x Her fiance...

Din: :shock:

Suddenly a squad of Sarduakar (12) round the corner. Keigo notices their blank and lifeless stairs. They move as being orchestrated, mere puppets of anothers will.
Nelson turns to the new arrivals.
*Restrain them, Lieutenant* Genesis hears.
The Sardaukar squad advances, and at the same time, the man with the orbiting saws lets his moonlets fly forth, buzzing toward Keigo.

Noname didn't move an inch. He wasn't even looking at the Sardaukars. He was looking at the door, intensely.

Suddenly, he made an incredibly fast rotating movement with his katana, projecting the moonlets against the walls of the room. He then looked at the Sardaukars.

"If they make one more step, they are all dead." he said with the same neutral tone as his katana was in the exact same position as before his last move.

*More friends Madam Shentavo. No, matter, the more their are the more answers to the questions we have.* Several of the Sardaukar move toward Din and Vaughn.

OOC: The Valinon telepaths can't really sense that much of the Mirror realm residents thoughts, they are more like ghosts or blips with a rather tough wall around them.

Genesis: STOP! *she yelled holding her hand out, concentrating her energy. The moonlits fall to the ground.* What the hell are you doing?! *she stood in front of Witz in a fighting stand with her hand out.*

Vaughn/Rave: Don't touch my apprentice! *he yells outrages*

Din: Your apprentice? :shock: I never knew you to be the hiding type..*wicked smiled*

Genesis: *turns to Din* Sleep! *he falls to the ground* Evil is always weaker...

Vaughn/Rave: Thanks Gene...

Genesis: *turns back to the squad* What exactly are you doing?? Listen, we didn't come here to attack anyone or anything...only to find protection for Witz...I really don't want to kill anyone...but if you lay a hand on him...*her eyes grew deep blue* then the psion and you shall have a word.

Suddenly a squad of Sarduakar (12) round the corner. Keigo notices their blank and lifeless stairs. They move as being orchestrated, mere puppets of anothers will.
Nelson turns to the new arrivals.
*Restrain them, Lieutenant* Genesis hears.
The Sardaukar squad advances, and at the same time, the man with the orbiting saws lets his moonlets fly forth, buzzing toward Keigo.

Noname didn't move an inch. He wasn't even looking at the Sardaukars. He was looking at the door, intensely.

Suddenly, he made an incredibly fast rotating movement with his katana, projecting the moonlets against the walls of the room. He then looked at the Sardaukars.

"If they make one more step, they are all dead." he said with the same neutral tone as his katana was in the exact same position as before his last move.

*The Sardaukar are expendible* Nelson says. *Besides we have more.* Two additional squads come around, and four more men dressed like Nelson. Two with a small solar system orbitin them.
*We will have our answers. The Empire must be saved*

*The Sardaukar are expendible* Nelson says. *Besides we have more.* Two additional squads come around, and four more men dressed like Nelson. Two with a small solar system orbitin them.
*We will have our answers. The Empire must be saved*

"I think you didn't understand," Noname said nearly disapearing.

Winds passed between the sardaukars and Noname reappeared behind Nelson, his katana on his throat.

"I could kill you at any moment."

Genesis: What the hell are they talking about Witz? No matter...*she constructs a power sheild in front of them. It shone white in the light and was transparent. Energy rippled through it as the psion continued to concentrate...

Vaughn/Rave: Vaughn... *she concentrated deeply...he had to be still alive...he HAD to be...*

Seeing Azerzdat laughing like that, Sarkonivia couldn't help but to share the demon's joy.

"Hehehe... You did a great job, demon."

He turned at a guard.

"Bring me a Souvenir, we have to tell the Grand Master."

*The Sardaukar are expendible* Nelson says. *Besides we have more.* Two additional squads come around, and four more men dressed like Nelson. Two with a small solar system orbitin them.
*We will have our answers. The Empire must be saved*

"I think you didn't understand," Noname said nearly disapearing.

Winds passed between the sardaukars and Noname reappeared behind Nelson, his katana on his throat.

"I could kill you at any moment."

*Then let us see how you face someone on your own terms. It is so nice for the Lord Diamyo to let us borrow some of his toys*
A trio of Scorpions round the corner, their own katanas drawn.
*You are the answer here, and we must solve this before we can confront the true danger. And we will do so at all cost*

Genesis continued to make the sheild stronger as Vaughn/Rave stood behind her, desperately trying to re-establish a link with Michael.
Genesis: Why the hell are you trying to kill us...here...*picks up Din and throws him through the shield* Kill him...

He was here to get Rave apparently....

*she continues to strengthen the sheild*

*Then let us see how you face someone on your own terms. It is so nice for the Lord Diamyo to let us borrow some of his toys*
A trio of Scorpions round the corner, their own katanas drawn.
*You are the answer here, and we must solve this before we can confront the true danger. And we will do so at all cost*

Noname remembered Vaughn's words: "This Nelson is a plea. He's a fanatic. If I could, I think I'd kill him with my own hands."

He looked at the Scorpions and back at Nelson, pressuring the telepath's throat with his blade.

"At any cost?"

The sheild was complete, and Genesis was satisfied. She began creating energy obs...to pass through the shield and stun the men...not kill them..she never liked to kill. The orbs circled and formed in her hand.

Vauhgn/Rave: I'm so glad I taught you well..*smiles*
Vaughn... *she continued to try and establish a connection*

Genesis can sense Nelson's emotions, but it is not fear of the man holding a blade to his throat. It is fear of things that will happen if he is killed. Genesis sees Valinon engaged in a shadow war against an enemy it seems unable to defeat, massive Valinon warships blown apart like they were made of cardboard. And a planet, a could ice covered world.
*I will not go out that easily*
There is a screech let out from Nelson's mine, psychic white noise screaming forth from the Myrmidon. The Sardaukar, Scorpions, and Myrmidons rush forward to secure the Shentavo and Underaloz citizens.

Genesis: Oh no you don't! *She yells, the sheild protected them all. If they had attacked before, they might have broken through, but they gave her time to strengthen it until it was hard as diamonds.* Back! *she yelled as a sonic wave passed over the creatures approching, sending them flying backwards as she prepared another attack. She let loose the white orbs she had formed in her hand, attempting to stun Nelson and five other of the troops* I will not go easily either...

Rave/Vaughn: Nor will I....*She began gathering Vaughn's energy....and began to become enraptured in shadows.*

(ooc: I have to leave soon)

Azerzdat and Sarkonivia were side by side, looking through the window as the messenger was carrying the good news to the Grand Master.

"Tell me," Sarkonivia asked. "What do demons drink? Wine would do?
- That would be perfect," Azerzdat replied with his cavernous voice. "I'd love to have a glass of wine."

Sarkonivia snapped with his fingers and a servant runned to the cave.

"You seem very eager to see have the Grand Master know about your victory.
- Yes, I admit it," Azerzdat replied, still looking at the rider. "I want him to know I didn't fail."

The servant came back with two glasses, Sarkonivia handed one to Azerzdat. But the demon didn't take it. He was no longer looking through the window. The rider had disapeared behind the horizon. By a contraction of his neck, the demon made the necklace fall.

Sarkonivia stared at him. :shock:
Azerzdat smiled. :)

"Good bye, Prefect," he said before taking Sarkonivia's head in his gigantic head and making it explode.

Four of the troopers fall, stunned. One manages to dive to the floor just in time. But as the ball nears Nelson, a field much like Genesis, but weaker appears. It is obvious that its creator is no where near the level of Genesis, but he is compotent. The Myrmidons present gather together inside another shield. And Genesis feels as three of them begin to coordinate an attack against her field and her mind. The remaining Sardaukar and the Scorpions rush forward.

(ooc: did he really kill Vaughn?)

Noname looked deeply at Nelson.

"Your sacrifice honors you," he said before cuting Nelson's throat and turning to face the Scorpions.

(ooc: did he really kill Vaughn?)

(ooc: the answer is coming soon. Have to type it tho ;) )

Rave/Vaughn: NO! *the body that she knew to be Vaughn's had taken the form of Zacharian.* :shock: She immediately focused all of Zacharians strength on the approaching troops as she continued to embrace the shadows...

Genesis: I will not weaken! I have been around for millenia...and I plan to stay for many more....*She unleashes a blast of pure energy on their shields. The floor trembled slightly on the impact..you could see the fire in her eyes..you knew what was coming next.*

Nelson knows he will die. He pours what is left of himself and sends it flying outward. Toward Vacit, toward anyone in the Myrmidons high enough to understand, to know their plans are going horribly wrong. Then he briefly feels the blade, and knows no more.

******

The Scorpions encircle Noname, blades at the ready. The Myrmidons continue to direct their puppets, and the telekenetics let their flocks zoom forward. Many head to attack the field, but at least two dozen fly toward Noname.

Genesis: I said NO! *She unleashes a circle of fire around no name, burning his attackers. As the fire died down she directed toward the telepaths in a blaze.* Remind me to thank you later for being a fire elemental, and not of earth..

Vaughn/Rave: I will...*she continues focussing the energy, toward the telepaths*

The Myrmidon creating the Valinon field is thrown back against the wall. The other Myrmidons realize they are suddenly without their main stream protection. The women rushes toward the fallen wall-maker, the others coordinate their attacks against Genesis, some bleed from their noses. Their fear is present now, a sharp echo through their minds. Fear that they will fail and fear that the Empire and the Fatherland cannot be saved. Yet they press onward, men bent to succeed, or at least die in the attempt.

******

And at the Academy, Byram Vacit hears the shreeks and last chaotic thoughts of Nelson's mind. He bows his head and quickly moves to leave the pool. He must get to Underaloz, otherwise the Empire will not survive. The Myrmidons cannot fight a two front war, and the mystery of the Enclave must be vanquished so the realy enemy can be faced by the Empire.

The Scorpions encircle Noname, blades at the ready. The Myrmidons continue to direct their puppets, and the telekenetics let their flocks zoom forward. Many head to attack the field, but at least two dozen fly toward Noname.

(ooc: I dunno if you've already seen chinese martial art movies, because that's what you will see right now)

In a sudden blast of fury, Noname seemed to unleash his true potential. Parrying, attacking, jumping against the walls and using them to gain speed. He was like giving a lesson of swordsmanship to the audience he had before him.

Genesis: I said NO! *She unleashes a circle of fire around no name, burning his attackers. As the fire died down she directed toward the telepaths in a blaze.* Remind me to thank you later for being a fire elemental, and not of earth..

Vaughn/Rave: I will...*she continues focussing the energy, toward the telepaths*

Two of the telepath fall, in a state of seizure. The others press on, and the wall-maker, recovering enough now tries to set up another shield for the Myrmidons.

******

Some distance away, Bayushi Shoju descends rapidly in the elevator. Rushing toward the inane screams of the damned Myrmidons. He may not be one of the Emperor's psychic lackeys but he had been trained by people who would make most of the Myrmidons hide at the bare whispers of his name. He straps his katanas securely to his belt, and waits to stand before a new foe.

Genesis: Seriously....*she holds her hand up and unleashes another attack.Viciousu orbs slice into the men's skin, slashing through bone and tissue. She readies another attack and looks at Witz* Are you alright?*

Rave/Vaughn: Damn you all GO TO HELL! *She says as she unleashes a surge of darkness toward the opponents. Engulfed in shadows, she begins gaining back the armour Vaughn had given to her*

All the castle had been emptied. Corpses were lying everywhere. If the walls hadn't been red, they would be after Azerzdat's work.

He walked calmly to the entrance and waved his hand. Vaughn stood up from behind a rock. And walked to the castle... which he couldn't see.

"Is everything all right?" He asked Azerzdat.
"Yes, No one alive and the messenger is gone. You cannot see this place?
- No, it's like I'm in the Dark Path. All I could see that was not natural were those ruins.
- The ones with the energy source.
- Yes, that ones.
- We have a deal then.
- We have a deal."

i seriously must go now... :cry:

The Scorpions encircle Noname, blades at the ready. The Myrmidons continue to direct their puppets, and the telekenetics let their flocks zoom forward. Many head to attack the field, but at least two dozen fly toward Noname.

(ooc: I dunno if you've already seen chinese martial art movies, because that's what you will see right now)

In a sudden blast of fury, Noname seemed to unleash his true potential. Parrying, attacking, jumping against the walls and using them to gain speed. He was like giving a lesson of swordsmanship to the audience he had before him.

One Scorpion falls before he can even strike at the ready. The two others launch a coordinate assault. They are skilled, the last of their kind since the Scorpion Clan helped the ESS murder all the other members of the Seven Great Clans of the Dominion. They fall as well, lasting barely minutes. The Sardaukar try to conquer their new opponent, and for a time the four squads of Sardaukar are focused solely on Noname. However, it is obvious the Myrmidon's control over their Sardaukar puppets is waning. They are losing coordination. And the Myrmidons number are dwindling as they still press desperately against Genesis field. Hammering with their very souls in an attempt to shatter it. The telekenetics redirect their remaining swarms of projectiles to try and catch the deadly assassin who so easily dispatched Bayushi Shoju's minions.

******

The Scorpion diamyo at long last arrives, and rushes toward the battle. He senses the new opponent, and knows that he is skilled, very skilled, a worthy opponent. One of such caliber not known since he killed Akodo Toturi of the Lion Clan.

The Sardaukar dwindle, their numbers rapidly falling, cut down as they try to exercise their skills. Behind their wall, three Myrmidons huddle together. The others are fallen toward the floor, it is clear that they can not hold much longer. Then a new figure rounds the corner, dressed in a simple uniform and a long trench coat.
"That will be quite enough," he says and looks at Noname and the Myrmidons. "I think we must talk, sir."

OOC: Good-bye, Rave. This is getting good. I must go as well soon. Its getting to a good cutting off point, considering you just made some of the best Myrmidons fall like flies, but what can I expect.

Noname got rid of the projectiles with a little more difficulty. Parrying most of them and but getting hit twice. Even for him, the number of opponent were too important. He roll-jumped, getting as far as possible from the new swordsman.

Here is my opponent, he thought to himself as he rapidly looked at Bayushi Shoju.

He didn't move for a second. Put his katana in an horizontal position in front of him, looking at Shoju and bending slightly his head. The two projectiles were still stuck into his chest.

You can expect your best myrmidons to fall like flies lol. :lol: yup..see ya tommorow good rp valinon and underaloz. :P :D

(OOC: sob, I'm alone now :( VERY GOOD RP IMO :) :) )

Genesis watches as the last myrmidon falls to the ground, the telepaths are dwindling down quickly.

Rave/Vaughn continues to gain power for one final blast.

(that's where my characters stand. I'll be out for the day....Underaloz, I never found out if Vaughn's alright...ah well...I'll live on the suspense till tonight.)

(OOC: Rave: read :P)

All the castle had been emptied. Corpses were lying everywhere. If the walls hadn't been red, they would be after Azerzdat's work.

He walked calmly to the entrance and waved his hand. Vaughn stood up from behind a rock. And walked to the castle... which he couldn't see.

"Is everything all right?" He asked Azerzdat.
"Yes, No one alive and the messenger is gone. You cannot see this place?
- No, it's like I'm in the Dark Path. All I could see that was not natural were those ruins.
- The ones with the energy source.
- Yes, that ones.
- We have a deal then.
- We have a deal."

Vaughn stared at Azerzdat.

"And you're sure about this?"

Azerzdat nodded.

"Quite. I know they were like... preparing for an attack when I left."

Vaughn pondered the information. Azerzdat let his eyes wandered around on Rave's beautiful shape. He smiled with a spark of lust in the eyes. Vaughn didn't pay any attention to this.

"Problem is I can't see them nor their buildings... all I can see are the ruins and the shadows.
- Yes, they call them the Vapors," Azerzdat replied. "Beside, I can see them."

Vaughn's eyes were fixed on the ground.

"I need to get there but I'd need to see.
- If you intend to attack the Grand Master's home, don't count me in. Especially since you're... like... blind somehow."

Azerzdat laughed at this thought. Vaughn stared at him, realizing the strange expression of the demon.

Right. I'm in Hell, dealing with a demon that tells me he's not home and does things I cannot verify since I cannot see the places where they took place... Marvellous.

"You wonder if you can trust me, don't you?" Azerzdat asked. "It's the same for me. Don't think I'm stupid. I know angels and it's quite easy to see you're not one of them.
- How so?
- Dunno. There is just something else.
- I've been sired by a vampire, that may be the difference.
- No. There is something else. I can sense it."

Vaughn didn't reply.

Noname got rid of the projectiles with a little more difficulty. Parrying most of them and but getting hit twice. Even for him, the number of opponent were too important. He roll-jumped, getting as far as possible from the new swordsman.

Here is my opponent, he thought to himself as he rapidly looked at Bayushi Shoju.

He didn't move for a second. Put his katana in an horizontal position in front of him, looking at Shoju and bending slightly his head. The two projectiles were still stuck into his chest.

Bayushi Shoju looks at Noname, blinking freely. He watches the Myrmidons regroup, the three telekenetics call their blades and spiks back to them. The other two telepaths and the one creating the wall stay hidden behind their thin protection.
Bayushi looks toward the field surrounding Genesis. He looks briefly away from Noname.
"Excellent craftmanship. Tell me, who is behind it? Or must I see for myself?"
The Scorpion still has drawn no weapon, and he now shifts his vision back to Nonam.
"Who are you? And what are you doing?"

Bayushi Shoju looks at Noname, blinking freely. He watches the Myrmidons regroup, the three telekenetics call their blades and spiks back to them. The other two telepaths and the one creating the wall stay hidden behind their thin protection.
Bayushi looks toward the field surrounding Genesis. He looks briefly away from Noname.
"Excellent craftmanship. Tell me, who is behind it? Or must I see for myself?"
The Scorpion still has drawn no weapon, and he now shifts his vision back to Nonam.
"Who are you? And what are you doing?"

Noname stared at Bayushi, his eyes straight in the Scorpion's ones.

"My name is not to be said and I am here to protect Mr.Witz."

He bent respectfully.

"And I am challenging you. Will you accept the challenge?" he asked

"You represent an interesting challenge, warrior. I have not faced such an opponent since the end of the Great Clans and the Dominion. Yes, an interesting proposal," Bayushi throws of his trench coat. There are two katanas strapped to his belt. One is silent and cold, but from the other, comes a muffled scream and growls like a wild creature caged.
"However, I must see to it that certain answers to questions are found," he walks toward the field.

Noname didn't move an inch. Calm and concentrated, he was waiting for his opponent to come. He didn't even look at the growling katana.

Witz looked at the scene, the bodies. All of this had been far too quick for him to react.

Damn whiskey, he thought.

As Bayushi was walking towards the field, he began to wonder if coming to Craddock was such a good idea.

Bayushi stops for a moment and turns to Noname again.
"Tell me, warrior, will you stop me?" He begins to walk carefully toward the sphere and removes the glove from his right hand.

Bayushi stops for a moment and turns to Noname again.
"Tell me, warrior, will you stop me?" He begins to walk carefully toward the sphere and removes the glove from his right hand.

"I'm observing as you don't have enough courage to fight me."

"Courage is a mattr of enterpretation, warrior, and I have heard those same words before from others who initially look down on me. Then continue to observe," Bayushi is now mere steps away from the field. He extends his hand, calms his mind, and launchs his attack.

******

Genesis feels the attack, it is massive, skilled, and deadly. A master of something very similar to the Dark Path, but not quite. The source of this attack feels lik hellspawn eating through, demons of man who has manipulated others for a lifetime. The field ripples with this attack that dwarfs the almost feeble attempts of the Myrmidons.

"Courage is a mattr of enterpretation, warrior, and I have heard those same words before from others who initially look down on me. Then continue to observe," Bayushi is now mere steps away from the field. He extends his hand, calms his mind, and launchs his attack.

******

Genesis feels the attack, it is massive, skilled, and deadly. A master of something very similar to the Dark Path, but not quite. The source of this attack feels lik hellspawn eating through, demons of man who has manipulated others for a lifetime. The field ripples with this attack that dwarfs the almost feeble attempts of the Myrmidons.

(ooc: so you're telling me he has his hand pointing to Genesis? How dangerous ;) )

In a flash, Noname rushed to Bayushi moving his katana as to cut his hand. (ooc: and it's damn fast, mind you ;) )

"Your words are those of a coward," he muttered.

OOC: No, he just had it pointed at the field, palm out.

Suddenly the Scorpion Lord disappears. Only to appear behind Noname several feet away.
"So you will stop me then? And define cowardice for me, it is a definition I find changes a good deal from place to place."
Bayushi's hand moves to the hilt of the silent sword.

OOC: No, he just had it pointed at the field, palm out.

Suddenly the Scorpion Lord disappears. Only to appear behind Noname several feet away.
"So you will stop me then? And define cowardice for me, it is a definition I find changes a good deal from place to place."
Bayushi's hand moves to the hilt of the silent sword.

Noname didn't say a word. As if he was air, he appeared right in front of Bayushi, his katana describing a rotating movement targetting the neck.

Bayushi disappears again, and reappears several feet to the right of his last position. His katana is now drawn and at the ready.
"Then I shall have my first challenge in so many years."

Bayushi disappears again, and reappears several feet to the right of his last position. His katana is now drawn and at the ready.
"Then I shall have my first challenge in so many years."

"To answer you: Cowardice is sending 3 men to kill another just because one can't face his responsibilities," Noname said, facing Bayushi. "Disapear once more and you are dead."

Noname knew, now, the subtle change in the air just before Bayushi reappeared. Would he do it again, Noname would know where to strike.

"The Myrmidons askd for my services and I gave them three of my men. However, I have some of the same aims as the Myrmidons and their Director, and seeing as how they are inept it is my turn to correct their errors. Besides to kill me brings the anger of the ESS, and not all the people of Underaloz can lay claim to your skills can they?" Bayushi now has his blade at the ready. It is not clear whether he is disappearing because of Noname's threat or of his own accord.

"The Myrmidons askd for my services and I gave them three of my men. However, I have some of the same aims as the Myrmidons and their Director, and seeing as how they are inept it is my turn to correct their errors. Besides to kill me brings the anger of the ESS, and not all the people of Underaloz can lay claim to your skills can they?" Bayushi now has his blade at the ready. It is not clear whether he is disappearing because of Noname's threat or of his own accord.

"I wasn't talking about the three I had to face," Noname replied, waiting.

He was focussed, now listening at the air in the room. Aware of the movements of nearly any particule in it. From where he was, he could feel the change of air pressure due to Bayushi's heart beating.

"I am not a representant of Underaloz and as such, I can kill you on my free will."

Witz was staring at the two warriors.

"Err... Maybe we could... I..."

"It seems that someone else might have something to say. However, whether you serve Underaloz or not, you obivously serve Vaughn and his Dark Path. Now tell me warrior, do you enjoy hearing my heartbeat?" Suddenly the area around Bayushi goes dead to Noname, as if it simple no longer exists.

"It seems that someone else might have something to say. However, whether you serve Underaloz or not, you obivously serve Vaughn and his Dark Path. Now tell me warrior, do you enjoy hearing my heartbeat?" Suddenly the area around Bayushi goes dead to Noname, as if it simple no longer exists.

(ooc: note to clear things up a beat. Noname nearly is an elemental. So, unless Bayushi has total control over air, I doubt he can do that. Nor can he sense Noname's thoughts since it is like he has no spirit - even Genesis failed at sensing him - Noname has strictly no sign of darkness to him... in fact, it is as if he didn't exist - Sorry do be that picky, it's just so you know: he doesn't use psionic or dark magic)

OOC: Fine about the thoughts, however Bayushi is outside the empire and the Dominion of Outer Centauri had elementals. I inherited them when I finally vanquished the Dominion. He has elemental skills in fire and earth, but his speciality is air. This is from the character design that DOC gave me when I took over. I've got to run I have another class.

OOC: Fine about the thoughts, however Bayushi is outside the empire and the Dominion of Outer Centauri had elementals. I inherited them when I finally vanquished the Dominion. He has elemental skills in fire and earth, but his speciality is air. This is from the character design that DOC gave me when I took over. I've got to run I have another class.
(OOC: dang... well good luck with class then :/ Air vs air, this should be fun to watch... to bad I won't be around tonight :( :( )

"It seems that someone else might have something to say. However, whether you serve Underaloz or not, you obivously serve Vaughn and his Dark Path. Now tell me warrior, do you enjoy hearing my heartbeat?" Suddenly the area around Bayushi goes dead to Noname, as if it simple no longer exists.

Noname's expression didn't change. He was still waiting for Bayushi.

"Are you a swordsman or a storyteller?"

Genesis shuddered slightly as she felt the attack, letting her guard down, her vampiric blood heals her wounds as she regains her tartet and begins a flame in her hand. Genesis was originally an air element, but when she was sired, also took up fire elentality from Rave.

(Thanks...I never saw that Vaughn was still alive post...scared me for a while :P )

"I am Bayushi Shoju, the Daimyo of the Scorpion. And why events are must be told." The Scorpion focuses for a few moments and then a blinding burst of information is sent into the minds of Noname, Keigo, Genesis, and Witz.
They watch as the Empire of Valinon and the Dominion of Outer Centauri first meet, and as the conflict builds toward the Outer Dominion Wars. They watch as the first war erupts and the Dominion is driven from its homeland on Proxima III and flee to their crumbling empire on Prometheus and the gas giants orbital cities.
They watch as the second war of the Outer Dominion Wars erupts and Valinon and the Dominion come to blows once more. The Dominion Imperial Deep Space Navy meets the Valinon Star Armada, and kamikazes of the Dominion clash with the superior tactics and technology of Valinon. Then they watch the Scorpion Coup led by Bayushi Shoju lead to the assassination of Lord Shogun Hantei Hasaki, and the Seven Great Clans battle one another in the Clan Wars as they try to fight Valinon. New Ortaga enters the war, trying vainly to recapture their glory by conquering the Dominion ally of New Edo. The Scorpion Clan sides with the rising Valinon and the other Great Clans crumble.
Then comes the dark days of occupation. The Dominion is crushed, the remnants of the six remaining Seven Great Clans hunted down by the Scorpions and the ESS. The Sardaukar break the spirits of the Dominion citizens, and within eight years it looks as if the Dominion never existed.
Then comes a new enemy, one that makes Valinon tremble. The witnesses watch as Valinon tries vainly at first to subdue the new alien enemy through conventional means and fails miserable. Then they see a mighty battle, and watch as Valinon unleashes a doomsday weapon that consumes an entire star system, expending many lives to buy a stalemate and a repreive to develop new weapons against this deadly new foe.
The plans come forward, Scorpion and Myrmidon working under the Emperor's eye. Combining Valinon's science and psychics with Scorpion shugenja (elementals) and ninja-ko. Then comes the events of the Enclave, and now the Myrmidons are plauged by visions and a host of new demons.
The Myrmidons know they can only fight one foe at a time. So they chose to try and vaquish the Enclave and the Mirror World first. Willing to use any means necessary to send the demons that haunt them in their own halls back to whence they came, and that means seizing the secrets of Underaloz.
Bayushi drops into a more fluid position, "I am Scorpion, warrior, and I am many things. And if you stand in my way I will have no choice but to strike you down."

OOC: Didn't Witz have something to say?

Genesis finally realized that her sheild was still standing. She shuddered as she got up. A stream of blood flowed from her forehead. She touched it gently and the wound healed.
Genesis: Grant me now the sourceress' blade of protection...You have spilt my blood... *Immediately she holds out her hand. A dazzeling blade of light extends from her arm about two feet. It's blue flare glows brightly. She takes a ready position...with her combined skill in psionics and combat...she liked the odds immensly. She glanced at noname, and gave a nod. She was behind him.* And now, I must spill yours.

"Ah, so the mistress of the wall can fight," Bayushi Shoju quickly unsheaths his second blade. The now unsheathed blade snarls and roars, screaming sounds of a thousand deaths and a thousand captured souls. Its blade ebbs and flows with a tide of colour made of red and black. It reeks of a world much like that of Mirror World. But vaguely different.

Genesis:"You are quite foolish to challenge me when I possess this sword." *she smiles at the familiar gift given to her such a long time ago. The shield would portect Vaughn and Witz from attacks, it was strong enough. She walked throught the sheild as the maker had full passage. She had a slight smiled on her face as the sword moved with her every movement, as if it were and extention of her arm.*
"And it is a fact that you are a fool for challenging a psion." *she raises her hand and a wave of energy passes over them all, pushing her opponent back, making it harder for him to strike. She paced around him as if she were circiling her prey. She quickly brought the sword down in a diagonal slash and immediately again aiming at the chest. The blade seemed to be drawn to it's target, for the deadly accuracy was frightening. She smiled and continued to fight. *

"I have faced psions before, and I killed even the greatest of their number from the Pheonix Clan," Bayushi's blade snarls at Genesis. "They depend far too much on their skills."
Suddenly the three circling opponents are blown back against the walls. A new voice pounds through their minds.
*ENOUGH! Especially you, Bayushi!*
A new figure approaches, garbed in a simple black and grey uniform. The only marks on his uniform are a V-like emblem on one side and the lion of House Alderman on the other. He floats a few inches of the ground, and is surrounding by various flying weapons.
"I am retreiving the information you seek, Vacit."
*And your methods are inefficient to say the least.*
Comes the reply, and thn a flight of long, shards impale Bayushi's coat and uniform.
*You will remain silent.*
The newcomer floats down to the ground and looks at the recovering Genesis and Noname.
"I am Byram Vacit, and although it is tempting, I cannot allow you to kill the Scorpion. He has his uses to me yet, and to His Majesty."

Noname looked at Vacit.

"This man accepted my challenge," he simply said, bending respectfully.

Azerzdat stared at Vaughn.

"Now you have guts telling me about all this," he said with surprise in the eye. "You're like telling me I could kill you if I wanted to."

Vaughn looked up at the demon undecided as to know if he could really trust him.

"Well. You wanna get out of here, don't you?
- Of course I do."

They stared at one another. Azerzdat let his eyes wandered on Rave's body.

"That's a gorgeous girlfriend you have here."

This made Vaughn smile. He waited for the demon to ponder all he had told him and, when he decided the other was ready, he began to explain what he had in plan. Azeradat's eyes were getting more and more widely opened.

"You're asking me to give you access to...
- Your mind, yes.
- So that you can...
- See what you can see and know what you know," Vaughn replied.

Azerzdat looked right in front of him. Dealing with an angel was something, letting the being of light entering the depth of his own soul was something else. Even if he knew now this wasn't really an angel he had before him.

Just potential, he thought.

"What do you have in mind exactly?" The demon finally asked.

Vaughn looked deeply at Azerzdat.

"I need to know what an angel is capable of."

Noname looked at Vacit.

"This man accepted my challenge," he simply said, bending respectfully.

"Then he did so in error, and he will suffer for his impudence," Vacit says, looking coldly at the Scorpion Lord.
"It is my right-," starts Bayushi, only to stop when a long spike hovers mere centimeters from his open mouth.
"Bite your tongue, or I shall remove it for you," Vacit turns to Noname.
"You must be a servant of Mr. Vaughn?"

Noname looked at Vacit.

"This man accepted my challenge," he simply said, bending respectfully.

"Then he did so in error, and he will suffer for his impudence," Vacit says, looking coldly at the Scorpion Lord.
"It is my right-," starts Bayushi, only to stop when a long spike hovers mere centimeters from his open mouth.
"Bite your tongue, or I shall remove it for you," Vacit turns to Noname.
"You must be a servant of Mr. Vaughn?"
"I am Mr.Witz's bodyguard and I am in no way affiliated to Mr.Vaughn," Noname replied.
"Could anybody tell me what's going on here?" Witz asked as if he had suddenly woke up, still trying to clearly understand the images Bayushi had sent into his mind.

Genesis: Psionics is just a hobby.*she smiled, knowing that this was just 1/3 of her strength. She looked at Vacit intently.* You were at the academy? And why can't this man died? He threatened all three of us...tried to kill us? Were we supposed to just stand there?!?! *She said in a demanding tone. She was one of the teachers at the Academy as well...of telekenetics. She was a fabulous teacher, and even more so a fighter. She looked intently at him...not letting her eyes shift to any other area*

Vaughn/Rave looked at what was happening. For the first time in her life she was completely clueless. "I'm with you Witz..." *she said softly. She couldn't help thinking of Vaughn...this time, the thought of him couldn't be supressed.

Witz looked at Rave. Something strange was emanating from him... some sort of strange charisma. He turned at Vacit.

"As an official representant of Underaloz, I demand to know why your men attacked us."

*The Scorpion cannot die because he can save our people. He will be dealt with, he maybe Ziegler's lackey, but he is not above me.* Vacit looks at Genesis, knowing that he himself isn't at full strength either. Valinon not might have access to Shentavo training, but they have access to other things that will substitute.
"You are Mr. Witz's bodyguard...but not a servant of Vaughn, an interesting statement," Vacit turns to Witz.
"Mr. Witz our Empire is at war with an enemy that can make Valinon look like a nation fresh from the womb. They are even older than our sire, the Kingdom of Pholus. We have bought a stalemate in this war but at a terrible price. And now the Enclave creatures are affecting our telepaths, so we must find a way to stop that threat. We cannot afford a two-fronted war. So we must end the threat that the Enclave presents. And to do that, we need the information Mr. Vaughn and his allies possess in order to end the Mirror World's threat to Valinon."

Genesis' blade vanished into nothingness as she stepped behind Witz. She would defend herself if she was attacked. How could anyone expect them not to? She rested her head on his shoulder, not taking her eyes away from the two men. She didn't even glance at noname. If they attacked Vaughn, Witz, Noname, or herself again...a heart attack for both could be easily arranged.

Vacit continues, "I would like to think my men can observe a certain amount of freedom in their quest to complete their set goals. However, it seems Mr. Nelson was overzealous and Bayushi was to quick to intervene in something he did not understand."
*And I would suggest you not attempt a heart attack, Madam, you might find this old man a little bit more difficult to kill than that.*

[...] And to do that, we need the information Mr. Vaughn and his allies possess in order to end the Mirror World's threat to Valinon."

Witz laughed slightly.

"Well. The only way you could get Vaughn to answer any of your questions is to help us reaching him... behind one of the other Mirrors."

He looked deeply at Vacit.

"It's not like he welcomed the people of Valinon with open arms. Nice way to thank us."

"I move outside the bounds of the Empire, Mr. Witz. It is necessary if we are to have victory over our enemies," Vacit affixes Witz with his stare, and his eyes seem like great pools of a brown so dark it is nearly black.

(ooc: Genesis wasn't thinking that and the notinon didn't come to her mind...it was just what could happen...)

Vauhgn/Rave: Stop giving the poor girl ideas...she might execute them..*he smiled at this and caught a glimmer in Genesis' eye.*

"I move outside the bounds of the Empire, Mr. Witz. It is necessary if we are to have victory over our enemies," Vacit affixes Witz with his stare, and his eyes seem like great pools of a brown so dark it is nearly black.
"Would Vaughn..." Witz looked at Rave inside Vaughn's body. "... the real Vaughn have witnessed what happened in that very room, I can guarantee you would have gained the worst enemie you could imagine."

His voice had been firmed. His eyes were straight into Vacit's.

"Now I suggest you get back to your senses or I'll tell my man to get us out of here. And, believe me, he would do so with ease."

Witz had no clue why he knew that but, at the time, he was sure Noname would.

(did we loose Valinon? :P)

Genesis: Help us reach him...*she said lowering her hand from an attacking postion.* ...I'll forever be in your debt..*she said with a soft smile*

(did we loose Valinon? :P)
(ooc: Nah, He'll be back ;) Jeez, I love how tense situations can get... and I love the perspective of fighting a war with Valinon against those strange enemies of theirs)

Noname was still static, his katana pointed to the ground, his eyes pointing at his katana. He was clearly waiting for Witz's command.

(by the way...sorry I've been out lately. I'm usually manage to get on at night though..and once in a while throughout the day. :D )

(by the way...sorry I've been out lately. I'm usually manage to get on at night though..and once in a while throughout the day. :D )
(OOC: np, I haven't been here last night. Got a nice pen & paper rpg session ;) )

Azerzdat felt uncomfortable.

I should never have accepted something like that.

Vaughn sensed the demon's feelings as he was diving into his mind.

"Don't worry, I won't screw up anything," he said, without opening the eyes.

Well, I hope I won't.

Exploring Azerzdat's mind proved to be far more easy than he was used to. Rave's soul had incredible power when it came to mind control and reading. He quickly looked at what Azerzdat knew about angels.

That way, I may figure out what I'm capable of.

When he thought he had gathered enough information about his own capacities, he looked at Azerzdat's most recent memories. He began to examine who his enemies were and how they were organized. When Vaughn opened the eyes, he knew more than any other Knight ever had.

So they are like us, completly unaware of why and by whom they got put behind the Barrier.

He looked up at Azerzdat.

"Didn't I tell you it would be all right?"

Azerzdat nodded, wondering if the non so angelic being had seen anything about the transformation.

"I move outside the bounds of the Empire, Mr. Witz. It is necessary if we are to have victory over our enemies," Vacit affixes Witz with his stare, and his eyes seem like great pools of a brown so dark it is nearly black.
"Would Vaughn..." Witz looked at Rave inside Vaughn's body. "... the real Vaughn have witnessed what happened in that very room, I can guarantee you would have gained the worst enemie you could imagine."

His voice had been firmed. His eyes were straight into Vacit's.

"Now I suggest you get back to your senses or I'll tell my man to get us out of here. And, believe me, he would do so with ease."

Witz had no clue why he knew that but, at the time, he was sure Noname would.

Vacit smiles, "Of course you may leave. However, unless we manage to improve ourselves, Valinon will cease to exist in less than a quarter of a century, so pardon me if your threats about hurrying that extinction seem ludcrious."
Vacit raises his right hand, looking as if to commence an attack, but instead ID tags and personal items float of the Sardaukar and into his hand. Then he snaps his fingers and twelve men in the crimson and gold trimmed armour of the Imperial Sovereign Protectors file in.
"Lieutenant, attend to this mess."
"Yes, Director."
Bayushi Shoju overcomes his fear of the hovering spike in front of him, "I have been challenged, Vacit, I must fight. I have my rights, I am not one of your puppets."
Suddenly Vacit whirls around at the Scorpion Lord and his eyes narrow to slits. There is the wet pops and cracks as bones snap and break, Bayushi swallows hard but to his credit does not scream. It is clear his right hand will take sometime to recover without access to the best of Valinon reconstruct surgery.
"You will remain silent, or the next bone that breaks will be your jaw. Ziegler can protect you from many things, Bayushi, but he cannot protect you from me," then the blades fly away from the Scorpion toward Vacit.
"Take these," they hover in the air until a Protector grips then.
Then Vacit turns to Witz and the others, "I shall accompany you and Sir Craddock to the Enclave. It appears that this matter requires my personal attention."

Noname looked at Bayushi. Without moving his lips, he imprinted a message into the air, a message that only Bayushi would perceive.

"We have a challenge and I promise you we will have our fight. I give you my word."

Witz stared at Vacit. He wasn't the kind of man to get angry easily, but it was obvious he didn't appreciate what had happened.

"Underaloz has always proven its dedication to peace. If Valinon has a problem, you guys just have to ask. I'm sure we would help you to the best of our habilities. We didn't forget how Valinon helped us with the Mirror."

He looked at the bodies as they were taken away by the new came Sardaukars.

"This was unnecessary and stupid."

He seemed to ponder the situation, thinking as fast as he could.

"However I won't talk about it to the United Corporations. That way, if you actually require our help, they shouldn't refuse based on such a mindless incident."

Vaughn/Rave: Finally...*she thinks to herself* Now I have a chance to find Vaughn...I hope he's ok...I know he's ok...he has to be ok...*a slightly worried expression crosses Vaughn's face, but quickly disipates into a neutral phase. The eyes said it all though...you could see in his eyes her strength, her wisdom, her love for him...she would get him back at any cost. *she picks up the angel's body as if she were nothing in his arms. She lay limp and seemingly lifeless...there was still hope though...still hope...there is [b]always[b] hope...

Genesis smiles at the cease fire. Finally, getting her sire's fiance back, and restoring her sire's body...hopefully..

Several minutes later, Vacit escorts Witz, Keigo, Noname, and Genesis to the aerospace port where Sir Craddock is waiting.
"There you are, Mr. Witz! I told the Lieutenant to find you hours ago, I was beginning to get worried," then he sees Vacit and six Sovereign Protectors, the other six are no where to be seen.
"Director, I had no idea."
"Nor where you supposed to, Sir Craddock. His Majesty's personal arm must attend to this mission as well. We are ready."
"And Bayushi?"
"Will not be attending, he has more important things to deal with."
"Very well. We must get under way quickly, we are already running behind. Captain Trotsky," Alexei exits one of the shuttles.
"Yes, My Lord."
"Take our visitors to the number two shuttle. The number one is already filled with equipment. Director, I apologize the shuttles are very cramped."
"I will accompany Mr. Witz and Lady Shentavo on their shuttle. My men can use our own transport."
"Of course, Director."
Vacit directs a message to Genesis *Our war for now is in the shadows, it is best for the people to not know such things. Necessary in fact if we are to have a chance at victory.*

"My lord!"

The Grand Master looked in direction of the entrance as the servant called for him. He spotted the Souvenir in the man's hand. Red.

Good, he thought. Very good indeed.

He took the red Souvenir and waved at the man.

"Go now."

He walked to the throne.

"No more prophecy now that she's been detroyed," he muttered to himself as the words and feelings imprinted inside the gem were making their way to his mind.

Witz looked deeply at Craddock as he was walking to his shuttle. He made his best at showing the ambassador something went terribly wrong.

Genesis: You have my silence and my secrecy.. *she sent back in reply with a slight smile. Yes, the shuttle would be slightly close, yet she hardly minded being that much closer to Witz. Vaughn led slightly in front of Genesis with the angel in his arms. She would be one to go to the other side of the barrier...if all went according to plan.

Craddock sees Witz's reaction, "Mr. Witz, would you like to join me in shuttle three?"
Witz notices that Vacits eyes narrow again, raging with a fire of an old warrior hell-bent. However, the Myrmidon can do nothing here in front of Craddock and his Sardaukar. He can't even effectively "change" Witz's mind without Genesis sensing it. Witz's knowns that if Vacit's eyes could shoot fire and brimstone he would be damned on the spot.

Craddock sees Witz's reaction, "Mr. Witz, would you like to join me in shuttle three?"
Witz notices that Vacits eyes narrow again, raging with a fire of an old warrior hell-bent. However, the Myrmidon can do nothing here in front of Craddock and his Sardaukar. He can't even effectively "change" Witz's mind without Genesis sensing it. Witz's knowns that if Vacit's eyes could shoot fire and brimstone he would be damned on the spot.
"Of course, ambassador, if that is your wish," Witz replied with a very diplomatic attitude, looking at Genesis and Noname.

"Let us get under way then," Noname and Genesis are ushered into shuttle two along with Vacit. And Witz and Keigo board with on shuttle two. The Sardaukar squads are dispersed among the three shuttles and the Sovereign Protectors rapidly advance toward their own shuttle, although several of their number are carrying a number of long, sealed metal containers.

******

After a few moments from take off, Craddock escorts Witz into a small ready room that offers privacy, but little else.
"Is something wrong, Mr. Witz? Your assassin? I noticed your expression before we left..." Craddock lets his statement stand unfinished.

"Let us get under way then," Noname and Genesis are ushered into shuttle two along with Vacit. And Witz and Keigo board with on shuttle two. The Sardaukar squads are dispersed among the three shuttles and the Sovereign Protectors rapidly advance toward their own shuttle, although several of their number are carrying a number of long, sealed metal containers.

******

After a few moments from take off, Craddock escorts Witz into a small ready room that offers privacy, but little else.
"Is something wrong, Mr. Witz? Your assassin? I noticed your expression before we left..." Craddock lets his statement stand unfinished.
(OOC: characters messed up: Noname is the guy Witz presented as Keigo. There are also Rave in Vaughn's body and Genesis ;) )

Witz stared at Craddock.

"Well we got attacked... by your people. Nelson, Bayushi... I don't know what's going on... and I'm sure you don't too... or else you would have warned us."

Witz seemed uncomfortable.

"And... err... my... man... well, he had no choice but to kill Nelson."

( :? Vaughn and Rave are also there...She's the only way they can find Vaughn...i think... And Genesis is not going to leave them there..they're the reason that this whole journey needs to be taken...? *or am I confused as usual. :P )

Vaughn descretely boarded as well with Rave's body in his arms. Setting Rave softly near him, he looks at Genesis. Genesis nods back slightly...you could tell communication was flowing between the two..unheard by untrained minds.
Genesis looked at Witz and smiled...he had changed from the first time she had met him...not to say she didn't enjoy the change...it wasn't really a change...no. It was more of his character showing.

Craddocks eyes go wide at the mention of Nelson being killed, "You killed a Myrmidon?"
He seems stunned that task can be done, "I've watched one of their teams dismantle and entire Sardaukar regiment. Hell, I've seen Vacit dismantle a entire Sovereign Protector force by himself. Then I was transferred off Project Magenta when they entered the Project Cyber phase. Bayushi I would expect, the Scorpions betray their own fatherland and Ziegler thrust open his arm and hugs the snake to his breast. But then, snakes enjoy each other's company."
"But, My God, a Myrmidon? How? And Vacit did nothing?"it seems that Craddock has the sense that the Myrmidons are infalliable and in Valinon they are. The hidden department of the Empire, lurking in the shadows and appearing only occasionally on select missions requiring the Emperor's personally attention.

Craddocks eyes go wide at the mention of Nelson being killed, "You killed a Myrmidon?"
He seems stunned that task can be done, "I've watched one of their teams dismantle and entire Sardaukar regiment. Hell, I've seen Vacit dismantle a entire Sovereign Protector force by himself. Then I was transferred off Project Magenta when they entered the Project Cyber phase. Bayushi I would expect, the Scorpions betray their own fatherland and Ziegler thrust open his arm and hugs the snake to his breast. But then, snakes enjoy each other's company."
"But, My God, a Myrmidon? How? And Vacit did nothing?"it seems that Craddock has the sense that the Myrmidons are infalliable and in Valinon they are. The hidden department of the Empire, lurking in the shadows and appearing only occasionally on select missions requiring the Emperor's personally attention.
"Well... ahem... I didn't, Nona... err... Keigo did it as he was doing his duty: protecting me."

Why the Hell am I protecting him back by the way?

"This Vacit arrived later. After Keigo had knocked down three of these... Scorpions, that's what you call them? Bayushi was here and he was doing all kind of strange stuff I honestly never saw before... even with Vaughn. Vacit arrived as to stop the hostilities."

Witz looked deeply at Craddock.

"Honestly, I don't like this Vacit. It seems your nation has some troubles and they want answer because of I-don't-know-what that happens to their psionics since the Mirror episode."

He sat down waving his arms, helpless.

"Why not simply ask? It's not like we would refuse our help."

"We have a strange mentality in Valinon, Mr. Witz. We like a nice-looking clean cut exterior, but if we need something the Empire has been known to sink to the lowest of lows to get it. I think it is because this is Valinon's Second Empire, the First Empire was taken over by a communist faction that eventually was defeated. However, the Imperial Government spent the better part of a century in hiding, fighting guerilla warfare against the People's Republic of Valinon. So House Alderman has many organizations that serve to monitor to stop such things from happening again. The External and Internal state security ministry, the Sovereign Protectors that answer only to the Emperor, and nearly 80 years ago the Myrmidons appeared. All these departments are intensively secretive, but the Myrmidons stand above the rest. Most of the military and the populace don't even know they exist, and only some branches of the government does. If they are having problems, you do not hear about them."
Craddock stares off into space for a moment, "As for the Scorpions, well they are the last of their kind. And ten years after the end of the Outer Dominion Wars we are no closer to fully understanding the Dominion then we were when they started. And the only source of knowledge left are the Scorpions, and they are not exactly talkative in the normal sense. Ask a Scorpion a question he will tell you a story that says both yes and no. Then he will stab you in your back and gut you before you can blink. They say a Scorpion can't even luck a man of truth in the eye without wincing. And their daimyo Bayushi Shoju has many names, Master of Secrets, Master of a Thousand Eyes, Master of a Thousand Damned Souls, Shaitan, and Demon Lord. I've heard rumours that the Mrymidons and the Scorpions were working together, but those that spoke had a funny way of getting transferred to some operations office on home world."

"We have a strange mentality in Valinon, Mr. Witz. We like a nice-looking clean cut exterior, but if we need something the Empire has been known to sink to the lowest of lows to get it. I think it is because this is Valinon's Second Empire, the First Empire was taken over by a communist faction that eventually was defeated. However, the Imperial Government spent the better part of a century in hiding, fighting guerilla warfare against the People's Republic of Valinon. So House Alderman has many organizations that serve to monitor to stop such things from happening again. The External and Internal state security ministry, the Sovereign Protectors that answer only to the Emperor, and nearly 80 years ago the Myrmidons appeared. All these departments are intensively secretive, but the Myrmidons stand above the rest. Most of the military and the populace don't even know they exist, and only some branches of the government does. If they are having problems, you do not hear about them."
Craddock stares off into space for a moment, "As for the Scorpions, well they are the last of their kind. And ten years after the end of the Outer Dominion Wars we are no closer to fully understanding the Dominion then we were when they started. And the only source of knowledge left are the Scorpions, and they are not exactly talkative in the normal sense. Ask a Scorpion a question he will tell you a story that says both yes and no. Then he will stab you in your back and gut you before you can blink. They say a Scorpion can't even luck a man of truth in the eye without wincing. And their daimyo Bayushi Shoju has many names, Master of Secrets, Master of a Thousand Eyes, Master of a Thousand Damned Souls, Shaitan, and Demon Lord. I've heard rumours that the Mrymidons and the Scorpions were working together, but those that spoke had a funny way of getting transferred to some operations office on home world."

"So you're basically telling me the security of your Empire is in the hands of secretive foreigners and a bunch of mind blowers?"

Witz couldn't help to laugh, the most cynical laugh ever.

Reminds me when I was younger.

"Actually, Underaloz is in the hand of someone used to play with shadows. Well was..." he looked at Rave/Vaughn, uncomfortable. "... well will be again damnit!'

He looked at Noname.

You and the Scorpions. What the Hell is going on? It's like Bruce Lee on acid.

He turned back at Craddock.

"Is there anything I can do. I mean... Hell, if Valinon is protected by these Mairmaidons, or whatever you call them, and some kind of evil samurais, I honestly think it's urgent to do something."

God damnit! I'm beginning to think, talk and act like Vaughn... Hmmm... I don't like this.

He stood up.

"Sir Craddock. We have to do something or your Empire will end up nuking my country. If there is a threat, let's find it and destroy it."

Genesis laughed slightly. "Sounds familiar." *she glances at Rave and laughs a tad louder.*

Vaughn smiled at this, and looked down at her body, then back to Genesis. Oh but I like my full titles and various names..

You would... *smiles*

-- Do you even know my middle name?

Please don't tell me it's danger...

-- no..*laughs* It's Azrael meaning "help of God". This is the name of an angel who separated the soul from the body upon death. She is sometimes referred to as the Angel of Death.

*Genesis flinched slightly* Sounds oddly familiar to an angel I know...

Craddock blanches at the mentions of atomics, "You have something far worse to worry about than nuclear weapons these days, Mr. Witz. This system has a gas giant in it (work with me here), well I'm not supposed to have kept this, but its easier than explaining it."
Craddock withdraws a thin data disk from a concealed pocket in his uniform. He inserts in the port of the ready rooms small computer terminal.
"I spent sometime in the Star Armada R&D deparment after the Outer Dominion Wars. And one of the projects that grew out of that war was called Solar Quietus. You see, the Dominion had a close ally, known as New Edo. It controlled a single star system but was very violent, and we supported New Ortaga when they went to war with them about the three years after the Outer Dominion Wars. We had a demonstration of our latest weapon, the first infusion of Valinon science and Scorpion Taoist manipulation."
A hologram jumps to life. It shows a series of twelve massive Valinon Magellan-class science vessels escorted by a small flotilla of warships. They are near the fringes of a planetary system designated in one corner IOX99-A, Uninhabitated Rim System. Suddenly the science vessels release a series of odd looking satellites. Half of them go to a gas giant in a position to the sun nearly analog that of Earth, the others form a half circle near the sun.
The counter passes for several days, and then it becomes clear that the gas giant is destablizing, and falling toward the sun. Several days later it is clear that collision is interest, and then the science vessels send out a wave of missiles. The counter moves to three days later, and then a brilliant double sun erupts in the heart of the system, then a series a small flares erupt. Sixteen hours later, the original sun and its newly ignited gas giant brother flare nova, the nova is accelerated by the burdgeoning fuel of the gas giant's hydrogen. The ensuing flare looks like the image Bayushi sent directly into Witz's head.
"You see, Mr. Witz, Valinon has created a doomsday weapon, our version of a massive nuclear weapon that could burn New Edo from the sky. Three weeks later, New Edo surrendered. To my knowledge Valinon never actually used this weapon, but in my opinion it is just as deadly to the wielder as the victim. For once we unleash this thing on a living system, the whole galaxy will turn against us. I take some small relief in the fact that we seemed to have horrified ourselves as well."
Craddock looks very sad, "You have so many more things to worry about than atomics, Mr. Witz. In Valinon war started out as an art, now it is a science and our ability to kill scares me sometimes."

OOC: Let us just say that the image Witz saw was not the test.

Witz stared at the hologram. His skin had nearly turned to white.

"This can't be," he muttered to himself. "This can't be."

If those guys consider the Enclave as a threat, we're all dead. And who knows what effect this could have on the... Jesus!... *7* mirrors!

Witz remembered the fire inside Vacit's eyes.

Yes, this guy could very well send all of us to Hell... literally.

Noname approached the hologram, his first independant move since they had entered the shuttle. His eyes were fixed on it.

"Mr.Craddock. This Bayushi. I think he wants to kill you," he said with the same calm tone of his.

Vaughn/Rave: *mutters* I think he wants to kill everyone...

Genesis: *says softly* I think I agree with you. *turns to the others and speaks louder* I do think that he, provided the proper circumstances, would kill anyone given he had the ability, more so the skill, to do so.

Craddock looks at Keigo, "I am sure he does. I fought in the Outer Dominion Wars against his people, and before he signed on with Ziegler and switched sides, I killed one of his sons in the engagement near the Dominion orbital city of Beiden, a Scorpion stronghold. But wanting and being able to are entirely different matters, Mr. Keigo. I am after all what I am, and despite the indignities I faced down under that sham of an Admiralty enquiry board my father was His Majesty's First Minister for Colonial Administration during its last glory days. I think even the great 'Master of Secrets' will find I have a few more teeth than I am granted to have."
Craddock turns back to Witz, "Understand you never saw this. I will have Captain Trotsky perform a memory wipe on the shuttle when we return. Let us be very thankful Valinon is yet hesitant to unleash the power we have gained from merging our science with Scorpion designs. Yes, very thankful indeed."

Noname looked at Craddock.

"That's not what I meant. When we entered the elevator, I could smell it. I'm almost sure he had ordered the men he was with to kill you."

He seemed to think a little.

"It is my experience someone like this man never kills at the wrong time. So you have to be in the way to one of his goal. At this very moment. Beside, he must feel he has enough credentials to do so. This must mean something."

He bent respectfully and stepped back in a corner of the room.

Vaughn/Rave raised an eyebrow when told of "forgetting" all of this. She turned to Genesis and they exchanged glances, and half hearted smiles. They would remember...but they would never say a word...ever. It may lay in the back of their minds...but they would know...but maybe they had people strong enough to perform it on Genesis...but Rave? Vaughn?Only time would tell...right now...their major priority was Michael and his safety.

Witz looked at Noname.

Who the Hell is this guy?

But the image of the hologram was still obsessing him. He looked at Genesis. His eyes were begging.

I love you... and I must remember this.

Genesis put her hand softly on his and looked at him. Don't worry...

Rave/Vaughn: Are we there yet? *he added with a smile. It was so typical of her character...given in her own body, this might have been taken a little...well...OK a LOT more playfully.*

Rave: I'm coming Vaughn...don't give up on me...i love you..

Vaughn/Rave: *mutters* I think he wants to kill everyone...

Genesis: *says softly* I think I agree with you. *turns to the others and speaks louder* I do think that he, provided the proper circumstances, would kill anyone given he had the ability, more so the skill, to do so.

Suddenly Genesis feels a tingling in her mind.
*And what is of such interest, Lady Shentavo? Nelson thought you were an interesting subject of study before he had his career cut short. But no matter, all knowledge is full circle and no one can hide it forever.* Then the prescence is gone. Genesis looks to see Vacit starting at her, his legs crossed and his hands carefully folded on one knee.
*Such a pity to lose a capable man, but Nelson was impulsive and in the end it appears that was his undoing. He should have known better, ah, well, he has paid for his mistakes ultimately. Pity my people have had religion bred out of them over the past 80 years, but it is something easily sacrificed if we are to save the Fatherland.*

******

"Then I will be on my guard then, Mr. Keigo. I have defeated Bayushi Shoju once, hopefully I can do so again if he tries something. And this time I can make sure Ziegler cannot rush to his defence."









OOC: Good night, folks! I must be going. I want to let you know that I've been experimenting by showing what Valinon has been doing on the side, and it is far from the diplomacy and roses its shows the general public, or those it associates with.

Vaughn looked at the gigantic citadel.

"I told you it was huge,"Azerzdat told him, uncomfortable.

The journey had been fast, they both had flyed to the very center of the continent.

"So you can see them now," The demon continued.
"Yes, that's something I couldn't have done before," Vaughn replied.

He was trying to count the number of soldiers.

"How many are they?
- I'd say a thousand in total," Azerzdat replied. "You know, I think it would be better if we could just..."

Vaughn stared at him.

"All right, all right," Azerzdat said. "Just remember I could have killed you when we first met.
- I won't forget it. But to get out of here, you'll need me."

He looked back at the citadel.

"So, if I want to jump into a pool acid, you'll have not choice but to follow me."

He smiled.

"I'm your new best friend."

I have forever to do what I want with the knowledge I aquire. *she replies to Vacit. She smiles softly. Forever is a long time...*she turns back to Witz*

(OOC: personally, I quite enjoy this two-sided world of yourse :) )

"Bayushi Shoju accepted my challenge," Noname said. "I'm afraid you will never have the occasion to kill him."

Witz kissed Genesis and hugged her. He was truly scared by what he had seen.

Vaughn, tell me you're alive. We need you. Badly.

Genesis embraced Witz. It was the first comfort she had had since the attacks. She wrapped her arms softy, and loosly, around his neck. "Soon this will be over...and we can get back to that vacation we were supposed to have..." *smiles*

Rave: Vaughn...please...I need you. I'm getting closer....I won't stop until I have found you...

ooc: I'm out as well. I will see you tomorrow. Once again, nice Rp. :P :D

Witz tried to forget the threat Underaloz and the Enclave in its whole were facing but, despite all the love he could have for Gene, the images of Valinon's weapon just wouldn't go.

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

They are far too many. F*ck it! I'd need the Nacht and I could strike the head like that.

Vaughn snapped in his fingers.

What I should do is to try to find the Huge Maister.

But he remembered the Huge Maister told him he was desperatly trying to prevent the Barrier from falling.

He can't move.

He reached the only possible conclusion. He needed re-inforcement.

Vaughn looked at Azerzdat.

"I think it's your lucky day," he said reluctantly. "We..."

He blinked. :shock:

"Everything's all right?" the demon asked.

Vaughn...please...I need you. I'm getting closer....I won't stop until I have found you...

"I can hear her," Vaughn muttered to himself. "I can hear her."

You're getting closer? Where are you? He sent to Rave.

Vaughn?! *Rave was shocked and overjoyed to finally hear his voice which insured his safety* Vaughn..I'm not sure where I am...on a ship with Witz, Genesis, Craddock...I'm coming to find you Vaughn...the darkness may fear the image of the angel...but they more so fear its soul...I'll be fine...Where are you? Are you alright? *She hoped that the connection had been reestablished...she hoped that all this would be over and they could just be together again*

God damnit! I told you it was too dangerous, didn't I? Well I seem to remember something like this anyway.

Hearing her voice was making him smile. He was feeling warmer.

Don't worry about the shadows, they seem to avoid me. And I have a good idea of what I can do with your abilities, I found a... err... He looked at Azerzdat. ... databank about that.

You said it was dangerous...but remember? *this brought tears to her eyes recalling memories* I am willing to take that risk...and go to the ends of the earth for you. *she smiled* So you do have my powers...erm..do you have my body as well? I mean literally...

You said it was dangerous...but remember? *this brought tears to her eyes recalling memories* I am willing to take that risk...and go to the ends of the earth for you. *she smiled* So you do have my powers...erm..do you have my body as well? I mean literally...
Vaughn looked at his hands. Azerzdat smiled.

"So it worked, they stopped blocking and monitoring the communications as soon as they got the message announcing your death?"

Vaughn smiled back as a reply.

"Good... good..." Azerzdat muttered, his 3 eyes going back on the citadel.

Now, if he gets people to help him, I may not be able to complete what I have to.

Vaughn focussed back on Rave.

Well, I've never seen Elaïne screw up like this before. It is like I am you. Really you. But I still have my own identity. I have no clue how that happened but I'm beginning to think I could use it.

He paused, trying to clear his mind.

I suppose you found other Mirrors. I thought these would exist. And you're with Craddock. I guess Witz went right to him when he heard the news about my death. This is a very fortunate turn of events. I need to know how many men and what weaponry he has. Also, I'd need to know if Nelson is with you.

Vaughn/Rave: Nelson...Nelson was killed. I can't restore him as my powers are with you. I'm not sure what weaponry and men we have... *turns to Craddock* How many weapons and men do we have? *focuses back on Vaughn* but I have asked...no matter...I am to be the only one to enter. I will not allow Genesis to go, and she would not want Witz to go if she didn't...the others...I am to go alone...

Nelson is dead? Damn. Who should I reward for this? You? And there is no way you're entering the Mirror. No way. I know a lot more now about what's going on here. What I need are men and mass destruction weapons.

Vaughn paused.

Anyone entering the Mirror will make what could be a one way journey. No ticket back. Rave. You have to stay alive. Let Alexei in with a good number of sardaukars... I think I can handle the psionics here with your powers.

He was looking at the citadel.

I think I can end the threat on the Barrier. Once and for all.

Vaughn/Rave: This man named noname killed him...claimed to be Wit'z protector or something.Genesis nearly had a fit over it... But...I...can't....do you expect me to sit here and do nothing...I have your powers..... *she trailed off* My psionics are adavanced, I had taught Genesis everything she knows...i guess you will be alright...*she paused* Alright...I'll wait. But last time I waited when Elaine came in the room...if I didn't wait, I wouldn't have talked to her, wouldn't have known about this entire thing and you would still be alive...Don't get me wrong...I don't blame her or anyone...I...I just wish you were with me right now...alive.

Vaughn/Rave: This man named noname killed him...claimed to be Wit'z protector or something.Genesis nearly had a fit over it... But...I...can't....do you expect me to sit here and do nothing...I have your powers..... *she trailed off* My psionics are adavanced, I had taught Genesis everything she knows...i guess you will be alright...*she paused* Alright...I'll wait. But last time I waited when Elaine came in the room...if I didn't wait, I wouldn't have talked to her, wouldn't have known about this entire thing and you would still be alive...Don't get me wrong...I don't blame her or anyone...I...I just wish you were with me right now...alive.
Deep feelings passed between their minds.

Elaïne came to warn me and I didn't listen. This is all my fault. I should have let her deal with Cecilia. I'm too stubborn. I love you and if you love me as much as I know you do, you will understand what I'm trying to achieve here.

His eyes were wet.

"Women..." Azerzdat muttered to himself, watching as the tears were rolling onto Vaug... Rave's face.

Now that's a weird name, Noname. Who is he and why did he come to protect Witz? Describe him to me... And watch him closely. Witz do need to stay alive. This is very important.

Rave/Vaughn: Genesis is very...erm...protective of him already.. *she glanced over at the two whom were obviously enjoying themselves* Noname is very neutral...no expression except occasionally...he is a great swordsman...but hardly shows any emotion...its as if he didn't have a soul...or he was nothing.

Rave could feel Vaughn smiling but he was also really anxious.

So that's him. Something big must have happened or else he would never have contacted Witz. Are you sure Genesis could handle Witz protection? Because if she can, I could use... how did you say he called himself?... Noname? Yes, I could use Noname's skills.

Vaughn seemed to hesitate.

I made quite an unexpected friend here. A demon called Azerzdat. Apparently, they captured him. He proved to be handy, but I have the feeling he's onto something and I have no clue what it is. Have you ever heard of demons 'tranforming' themselves?

Rave/Vaughn: Genesis can handle almost anything...I'd trust her with my life...and she's not going anywhere.. *looks again at the two* You made a friend? Wow...usually demons are scared of angels..AZERZDAT! HOLY SHIT! *she was in a complete state of shock* Are you sure to be making friends with him? An archangel and a demon is not a likely pair...and a demonic hunter...hunter of ANGELS? Be careful Vaughn...

The Grand Master had a glass of his favorite wine in the hand. He was delighted by his own wisdom.

Capturing this demon proved to be the best idea I ever had, He thought to himself marvelled at his own intelligence.

Suddenly, a Vapor appeared next to him. Completly surprised, The Grand Master let the glass go into the air. It finally hit the ground and ended up into pieces. The delicious wine was nothing more than a trace on the floor.

He stared at the Vapor. Their communication was short.

The Angel is near the citadel with the demon.

The Grand Master cursed and immediatly stood up.

Rave/Vaughn: Genesis can handle almost anything...I'd trust her with my life...and she's not going anywhere.. *looks again at the two* You made a friend? Wow...usually demons are scared of angels..AZERZDAT! HOLY SHIT! *she was in a complete state of shock* Are you sure to be making friends with him? An archangel and a demon is not a likely pair...and a demonic hunter...hunter of ANGELS? Be careful Vaughn...

Well, for the time being, he's more eager to get out of here than to smash me into bits. *He* came to deal with me. But I admit I never saw a demon like this. He even has 3 eyes and I...

The communication went down.

Rave/Vaughn: Vaughn!??? *she closed her eyes...the communication was broken.* F^ck! *

Genesis was slightly startled at Vauhgn, but before she could ask any questions, Rave gave her a "Don't" look and she remained silent and focused her attention back to Witz.

Completly unaware of what had happened within Rave's mind, Witz looked at her.

What is wrong? he thought. I guess she's anxious. Of course.

He smiled at her making his best at looking confident.

Noname was still static, staring at Witz's neck, as if he was 'listening' to the surrounding.

Genesis glanced at Noname. "What exactly are you staring at his neck for?"she asked with a slight smile of irony.

(post deleted)

Genesis glanced at Noname. "What exactly are you staring at his neck for?"she asked with a slight smile of irony.
"If I focus on his neck, then my sight has the best angle when it comes to observe his surrounding," Noname replied without moving an inch.

Genesis: *slightly suspicious of no name* Right..*stares at Wit'z neck, then catches his eyes.* What? I want to observe your surroundings...*she smiles and kisses him.*

Vaughn/Rave: :roll: Yes Vaughn...Genesis will not take her eyes off Witz.. *she laughed to herself and let her thoughts wander*

As she let her mind wander, Rave began to feel something strange inside Vaughn's soul. She soon realized it seemed to be connected to Witz. The idea that came into her mind was that of a key. Something was locked inside of Witz and Vaughn had the key.

Rave was startled at her findings. She looked at Witz...what could be the connection between the two...

Vaughn/Rave: How did you end up becoming his right hand Witz? *She was referring to Vaughn. Maybe the connection started there...or was it something deepeer?*

Witz, who had just kissed Genesis back, suddenly uncomfortable.

"Well... err... that's a long story you know."

He looked around, apparently decided not to talk in the shuttle. Maybe even decided not to talk about this at all.

Vaughn/Rave: That didn't help...There has to be something...I accessed his memories before, briefly to find out which hologram he was located...but could I find information about this... *she delved deep into Vaughn's mind, searching*

As she was digging, she made another strange discovery. A thin line of energy that she kept on finding as soon as she was trying to retrieve information about Witz. She followed the line with difficulty as it was so thin she wasn't really sure it actually did exist. At the other end of the line, was Noname.

Vaughn/Rave: Noname? How the hell does he fit into all of this.. *she glanced up at Noname* Tell me, why are you so keen on protecting Witz?
A deal maybe...but what type?

Noname looked briefly at Rave.

"My master sent me. I have a mission."

Rave/Vaughn: Who is you're master? What is you're mission? *you could see the flare within his eyes*

"My master is not to be named. And my mission is to protect Mr.Witz."

Witz looked at Rave, as interested as she was to know more about all this.

"Have you... sensed something?" He asked.

Vaughn/Rave: Yes...I have...*he turned back to Noname* You say that you're master is not to be named...and you're name, or what you call to be your name is no name...Witz, can't you see it? *she said with a look of suprise.* So that would mean that you're mission is to protect Witz...and you're master...is yourself...so you gave yourself that mission? *something quickly entered her mind* Or did I give you that mission?

Nothing could be found but the thin line of energy.

Witz turned at Noname.

"I knew this! This is Vaughn! Again!" His face turned red. "I guarantee you next time I see him, he'll discover what I'm capable of," Witz said waving his fist in the air.

Noname didn't seem to notice Witz's reaction. He stared at Rave.

"You are wise, immortal one, but in my clan, no one is to be named."

Rave/Vaughn: *completely gives up trying to decipher noname when she heard Witz's comment*

Genesis: :roll: Note to Witz...Vaughn's fiance is sitting right there... *she sent to him with a smile.* Best to threaten Vaughn...after...and if we get him back

Witz looked at Rave.

"I... I'm sorry. It's just that... ahem... Vaughn is always like playing with me." He sat down with a sad face. "I can't stand it anymore."

Rave/Vaughn: Eh...I'm alway's "playing" with Gen...

Genesis: :shock: Hey! *to Witz* I think we should take them out together *she said jokingly trying to contain her laughter*

Witz closed his eyes.

Too many years, too many frustrations, he thought, trying to get back to his senses.

When he opened the eyes, they were straight on Noname.

Bah... this guy came and saved my life. Somehow I should be glad.

Noname didn't blink. He was back into his bodyguard attitude but now that Rave had raised doubts, he seemed much more important than he probably wished to look.

(check this thread out...http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=66325&highlight= I dunno, maybe you'll be interested..it could turn out as a nice rp :P )

Rave goes back into her thoughts....his mind...and tries to figure out the tie. Vaughn had some control or deal with Noname...she just couldn't figure out what it was.

(OOC: well, I can't have too many RP going on at once. I'm trying to launch one about Witz's past: http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=66121&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0 :P )

:lol:

The three shuttles arrive at one of the entrances to the Enclave. Alexei enters the ready room.
"We are landing, My Lord."
"Good, good, ready the men, Captain," Craddock then turns to Witz. "Mr. Witz, Mr. Keigo, I want you to stay with me."
They exit the transport. Three squads of heavily armed and heavily armoured Sardaukar are preparing equipment. And four of them are unloading a very secure, sealed box bearing the markings of the Star Armada. Vacit exits with Vaughn and Genesis, and then looks skyward. A fourth shuttle rapidly streaks in an lands. Out of its hold comes twelve of the Imperial Sovereign Protectors (OOC: And you thought the Sardaukar were good wait until you see the Emperor's finest in action. Too bad it takes so long to train them.) There is also another man, a wizened looking Dominion man. He is dressed in long-flowing robes of black and white with the Scorpion mon embroidered on surrounded by arcane symbols.
"Director Vacit," Vacit looks toward Craddock, "who is your friend?"
The corners of Vacit's mouth tug in an imitation of a smile, "He is Yojiro a shugenja. His kind has experience in things relating to the Dark Path. And I believe he has certain skills that may be of assistance. Besides, he is under my protection."
Genesis, Noname, and Witz all notice that the shugenja's eyes are glazed much like the Sardaukars that Nelson had under his control were.
Craddock glares at the Myrmidon, "Let us be off then."

Noname couldn't help to look at Yojiro as he was following the one he was protecting. Witz followed Craddock and just didn't like to see so many people that reminded him of the attack at the embassy.

Vaughn travelled slightly in front of Genesis with Rave's body in his arms. He looked to Genesis, whom was already suspicious of theses people, but kept it hidden. Genesis couldn't help to look to Witz once and a while..

Witz couldn't help to look at Genesis, once in a while, smiling at her as if her presence made him comfortable. :)

Vaughn/Rave: Vaughn... *she repeated his name in the depths of her mind...

Genesis smiled at Witz...his presense comforted her. She wondered where this mirror was, and how long it would take to get there...but when they did, what would they do.

(OOC: note to Valinon. The Enclave is the planet, not the world behind the Mirror - which is unnamed at the time being. I have the feeling you have that mixed up. Someone that knows about the Dark Path? Hmmm... can't wait to see what this guy is capable of. Oh, btw, I'm stealing a character from your empire again :P )

McPherson was sat before the screens. He had the six possible targets before him. Six semi-spherical caves with no sign of activity in them. He took his coffee.

Insanely hot. Just how I like it.

Suddenly, all the screens went white and scanners couldn't stop shouting in their typical bipping language.

Holly shit!

Now he had coffee all over his chest... and it was insanely hot.

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

As they were heading to the location of the Mirror Rave had chosen, a fantastic bang, similar to the sound of a nuclear bomb exploding underground, made the ground tremble, shaking even the shuttles.

Witz stood up after a moment, trying to recover from the shock. He knew what this was. The Mirror had been switched on.

The ground shook from underneath Genesis. She fell backwards, and landed on her hands and flipped back, straightening to a standing position again. She went to Witz to help him up.

Vaughn/Rave looked around. As the ground trembled, he stood strong and kept his attention focused elsewhere.. Vaughn...the mirror is on...

(OOC: note to Valinon. The Enclave is the planet, not the world behind the Mirror - which is unnamed at the time being. I have the feeling you have that mixed up. Someone that knows about the Dark Path? Hmmm... can't wait to see what this guy is capable of. Oh, btw, I'm stealing a character from your empire again :P )

McPherson was sat before the screens. He had the six possible targets before him. Six semi-spherical caves with no sign of activity in them. He took his coffee.

Insanely hot. Just how I like it.

Suddenly, all the screens went white and scanners couldn't stop shouting in their typical bipping language.

Holly shit!

Now he had coffee all over his chest... and it was insanely hot.

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

As they were heading to the location of the Mirror Rave had chosen, a fantastic bang, similar to the sound of a nuclear bomb exploding underground, made the ground tremble, shaking even the shuttles.

Witz stood up after a moment, trying to recover from the shock. He knew what this was. The Mirror had been switched on.

OOC: I know the seperation, if its the Mirror, people from Valinon will call it Mirror World, if its called the Encalve my people think of that as the caverns and portal system.

Craddock had been running through the last equipment checks when the explosion rumbled through the ground beneath his feet.
"McPherson!" Craddock bellows at the sensor specialist onboard one of the shuttles.
"Massive energy spike under ground, My Lord, it eminated from the Mirror room that was our intended target. I am activating the advanced probe depth scan created by the University teams. We will have detailed analysis in eight minutes. Also recommend sending probes down before personnel."
"Do it," Craddock says into his comm. Several small spherical objects are released from storage canisters and they race underground into the Enclave. Their extensive sensor and vid suites ready to furhter detail the Mirror target.

OOC: On for just a little bit, can't stay long.

(ooc: I'll be out for the next day, sorry. IF npcing is needed, underaloz :P you know what to do :lol: )

McPherson was waiting for the data from the probes. He quickly looked at his chest.

Now this would be the perfect time for an inspection.

When he looked up, the probes were already inside the gigantic cavern. The images were clear: the new Mirror was opened. He quickly gathered as much information as possible on the multiple screens.

"My Lord, from what I have here I'd say we have a configuration much alike the ones in the reports... about the first portal. Still waiting for a complete analysis though. But..." he looked at the 2 screens on top of the console. "... there doesn't seem to be any sign of life there."

He pondered the situation.

"Do you think we should send the probes in, sir?"

"Send in two of the probes, keep the rest in reserve," Craddock says.
He turns to the first squad of Sardaukar, "Move. I want a perimeter secured before we take Mr. Witz and his colleagues down there."
"Yes, My Lord," the twelve Sardaukar rush down the tunnel.
Alexei walks up beside Craddock and speaks in the harsh secret tongue of the Argot, "We will not be unprepared this time."
"Indeed," Craddock replies in the same harsh tongue.

Rave/Vaughn still holds the angel in his arms. He looks at them for a moment, then turns his eyes to the ground. "I cannot acompany you...neither must Witz nor Genesis. Noname, however will go...as I feel deeply that he will be of great use." he said strongly, more of an order than a suggestion. He looked to Genesis, whom was about to protest, but the look in his eyes told her what must be done...wasn't she always right anyway?

"Send in two of the probes, keep the rest in reserve," Craddock says.
He turns to the first squad of Sardaukar, "Move. I want a perimeter secured before we take Mr. Witz and his colleagues down there."
"Yes, My Lord," the twelve Sardaukar rush down the tunnel.
Alexei walks up beside Craddock and speaks in the harsh secret tongue of the Argot, "We will not be unprepared this time."
"Indeed," Craddock replies in the same harsh tongue.
"All right," McPherson muttered to himself.

He programmed two of the probes to get through the Mirror and come back after 10 seconds of observation.

Let us hope mechanics are not like humans and that the portal will be there for them when they turn back, he thought, remembering the reports he had read.

He pushed the button and waited.

10... 9... 8... 7... 6... 5... 4... 3... 2... 1... 0... -1... -2... shit!

The two probes weren't back.

It's just a Bump to the left.
And a bump to the ri-hi-hi-i-i-ight.

Rave/Vaughn still holds the angel in his arms. He looks at them for a moment, then turns his eyes to the ground. "I cannot acompany you...neither must Witz nor Genesis. Noname, however will go...as I feel deeply that he will be of great use." he said strongly, more of an order than a suggestion. He looked to Genesis, whom was about to protest, but the look in his eyes told her what must be done...wasn't she always right anyway?
Noname stared at Rave with an intrigued expression... as intrigued as he could look that is.

Vaughn/Rave: You will go with Alexei and some of his men...*he said to noname.* Alright?

"That's not what I came here for," he said firmly as if there was some kind of hidden message in his sentence.

Rave/Vaughn: Bring back what you came here for...and return it to me...*he said with a slight smile*

"I would if you were who you look like," Noname replied.

Rave/Vaughn: I know...you must trust me on this...he asked me...I...I have spoken with him before our communications were blocked...or deterred...Go with Alexei...bring him back...*there was a look of despair in his eyes. She was able to do nothing but wait to see if Vaughn could return...if her body could be restored.*

"What are these things?" Azerzdat asked staring as the probes turned back and went beyond the position they had appeared at.
"Probes, from Valinon," Vaugh replied.
"How the hell did you manage to spot the exact location?
- I don't know. I had like... an intuition."

Rave/Vaughn: I know...you must trust me on this...he asked me...I...I have spoken with him before our communications were blocked...or deterred...Go with Alexei...bring him back...*there was a look of despair in his eyes. She was able to do nothing but wait to see if Vaughn could return...if her body could be restored.*
"I have your word?" Noname asked.

Rave/Vaughn: You have my word, you have my trust...I wanted to go alone...I still wish to...but he..he gave me specific instructions...he knew I would go myself, and was ready to debate it...he knows me too well...*tears formed in his eyes*
Vaughn... *a tear fell to the ground*

Rave/Vaughn: You have my word, you have my trust...I wanted to go alone...I still wish to...but he..he gave me specific instructions...he knew I would go myself, and was ready to debate it...he knows me too well...*tears formed in his eyes*
Vaughn... *a tear fell to the ground*
Noname put his hand under the tear before it touches the ground (OOC: :P ) and closed his fist.

"I don't see why you should take orders from him," he replied, opening his fist and revealing a little diamond in it.

Rave/Vaughn: I don't usually...*she pauses for a moment and looks at the small diamond* God I miss him so much...*she said holding back her emotion. She looked at Rave's body next to her, peaceful, as if she were only sleeping.*

Rave/Vaughn: I don't usually...*she pauses for a moment and looks at the small diamond* God I miss him so much...*she said holding back her emotion. She looked at Rave's body next to her, peaceful, as if she were only sleeping.*
Noname looked at the diamond in his palm.

"Yes, I can see your feelings," he replied, neutral. "But I have learned when to agree and disagree with this man. Something I think you should learn too."

He looked up at Rave.

"If his feelings are as intense as yourse, I'm not sure he will take the right decisions."

Vaugn/Rave: You're saying I should go? *she said softly*

"I'm just saying you should think," Noname replied.

Vaughn/Rave: I feel a little disoriented whereas my mind is over there and I'm over here. *she laughs at this.* I don't know how I could help...I don't know how to use his powers whatsoever...heaven is more my territory than hell. *she said with a smile*

Noname handed the diamond at Rave.

"I couldn't know where you would be the most useful better than you could," he said, stepping back.

Witz had been watching the whole scene, silent.

Yes, he thought. Vaughn is a man whom it's quite easy to disagree with.

Rave/Vaughn looked at noname, then to a diamond. She began prying into Vaughn's mind once again, extracting what information she could.

She concentrated and concentrated again. To her surprise, she could hear a thin murmur in the depth of her mind.

What the fuck is going on here?

I'm not quite sure... *she answered and continued to concentrate as she delve deeper*

You're not me, who are you then? the voice replied a little louder.

Someone wishing to help and restore you...tell me how to use these powers... She replied and concentrated harder. She couldn't help to think of Vaughn. When would she see him again? If ever...

Restore me? What the Hell happened? I can't seem to remember a thing... wait... Someone killed me. Was it you?

No... I sacrificed my life to save you, but you're soul and mine had an argument and he didn't accept my sacrifice and sent my soul to your body and now i have to either learn how to use you're powers to rescue you and restore my body and so we can be together again (and get straight to the *BIP* :P )

"My Lord, the probes have failed."
"Damn," Craddock mutters. He turns to his men, "Prepare to move out. Seargant, make sure the HAVOKs are primed."
"Yes, M'Lord."
Craddock looks at Vacit and his party, "Will you be going down, Director?"
Vacit smirks vaguely, looking up as if just finishing a comm conversation.
"As a matter of fact, we will go first."
"As you wish," Craddock replies in terse tones.
Vacit, twelve Sovereign Protectors, and the shugenja move down the tunnels. Shortly after another squad of Sardaukar goes. Craddock, Alexei, and Keigo are the last ones with the last Sardaukar squad and the HAVOK team.
"Once more into the depths," Craddock looks at Alexei. "And for one I would like to lodge a complaint with the management."
He checks his ammo counter and they begin to move forward.

******

Back at the embassy, a shuttle registered to the ESS lifts off. Bayushi Shoju guides the craft himself. It streaks through the atmosphere, past the Valinon cruiser in orbit, and then enters hyperspace.
Once in hyperspace, Bayushi Shoju begins to drift off the established pathways established by mainstream commerce. He hits a transponder that beams out a tight-beam selective message. His three Scorpion escorts and ESS Nightwatch men wait in silence in the main cargo bay.
Then Bayushi receives a like message. He guides the shuttle, through the whirling mists of hyperspace.
And emerges next to a secret fleet. Eight special Myrmidon ships, designed to spend most of their lives in hyperspace escort six specially modified science vessels.
Bayushi Shoju moves toward the lead Myrmidon cruiser. His shuttle disappears into the bay.

A deep feeling of confusion arose.

I don't understand. Are you a Shershka?

In that second, Rave decides what to do.
Rave/Vaughn: Noname, I am going to stay here with my body...Genesis stay with Witz...noname...go with them. I will help from where I am and as much as I can....

Vaughn.. *she said quite loudly as she attempted to break the blocks*

A deep feeling of confusion arose.

I don't understand. Are you a Shershka?

Who the hell is Shershka? no mater now..

Listen, tell me how to use these powers or it might be the death of both of us..

Noname smiled at Craddock's reference to management, looking at Vacit and his men.

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

Well... the powers of the Ancient Mâa, what else? the voice answered even more confused.

OOC: Can I just say we get to the Mirror? Or must we RP going down the wind, long, slightly cold, caves and catacombs of the Enclave?

OOC: Can I just say we get to the Mirror? Or must we RP going down the wind, long, slightly cold, caves and catacombs of the Enclave?
OOC: get to the Mirror I guess ;)

How do I control them.. *She said with a slight hesitation*

Vaughn. *she sent again toward his spirit...with more energy this time...she would break the thing blocking the communication if it was the last thing she did.