NationStates Jolt Archive

The Free City of Kadursk –

OOC Info:

This thread grew out of an introductory thread which I posted to announce my new nation, the Former Mordorians, when someone suggested building an embassy within my capital.

Given the political emphasis on internal security essential for the safe and prosperous growth of our citizens (ahem) foreign citizens are not allowed within the massive and forbidding protective wall currently under construction HOWEVER the Free City of Kadursk lies technically outside the border and is an ideal place for outlander diplomats to establish embassies, set up trade etc with the Former Mordorians.

I’m offering this as a venue for anyone interested in diplomatic/espionage/etc etc freeform roleplaying. Please feel free to join in and take liberties with some of the cast of characters I’ll suggest in the next post or two.

The basic set up is that (for all my In Character protestations) my nation is an expansionist police state with a real flair for dirty dealing, bullying and so forth. Kadursk is a city of lowlives, pirates, dodgy dealers and refugees that more or less are tolerated by their totalitarian neighbours because of the usefulness in providing contact with the outside world.

KADURSK – LAYOUT AND LOOK

Kadursk is a sprawling and chaotic city built on the easternmost shore of a wide and navigable river. The architecture shows the cosmopolitan influence of generations of foreign travelers and settlers. Old fashioned stonework and modern pre-fab shelters co exist in the crowded and winding streets.

The dockside areas are crowded and unsafe for casual travelers, local lowlives and ship crews mingle and conduct business in dingy bars and other haunts.

Further inland are more spacious market halls and plazas where a variety of mundane and exotic goods are sold, and more complex deals are done.

Ringing the market district is the “New Town” where most of the foreign embassies are likely to be established – the streets are wider, safer (in the main) and the buildings show a grandness and quality that is unusual here.

At the far east of the city is a vast and imposing temple building, that has stood empty, cold and deserted since the rise of the Former Mordorians nearby who eliminated the former priesthood. There are few living in Kadursk today who would even admit to knowing the nature of the worship that once happened there.

Adjacent to the temple is a domed building used as a forum for the diplomats and senior merchants who make Kadursk their home. This is where the official negotiations and political maneuvering takes place- there is plenty of unofficial business conducted elsewhere however.

While Kadursk has no official police force, the generous ruler of the “Land Beyond the Wall” provides semi regular patrols of soldiers in dark Kevlar armour who enforce the rule of justice evenly. Well, pretty selectively actually protecting the interests of the nearby state while ignoring the smuggling, larceny, extortion, violence and double dealing that goes on daily.

MORE TO FOLLOW- PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CHIP IN WITH SUGGESTIONS

People to Know and Places to Go in Kadursk-

(Feel free to use, abuse and add to…)

THE TEMPLE

The venue of worship in Kadursk before the rise of the Former Mordorians, who ruthlessly stamped out all official religion in the region. The Temple itself is a magnificent building of white stone, atop a small rise to the east of the town. It is ringed by pillars, each topped with the smashed remnant of an ancient stone face. The doors to the temple were carved with elaborate frescoes, all shattered and unrecognizable.

Inside is empty and desecrated, shattered plaster and stonework everywhere. Anything portable was looted long ago.

The Temple is notable for two things. Firstly as an off-limits area it is often used for clandestine meetings by the various factions, spies and criminals of the city and beyond. Secondly it is rumoured that the catacombs beneath the building, the final resting place of ancient priests, extend beneath the city itself. To someone willing to spend the time exploring them these may provide a means of secret movement.

A regular sight in and around the Temple is an old bag-lady known as Ole Missy. Usually seen mumbling and staggering around, yet with a surprisingly shrewd grasp of what’s going on in the city. She doesn’t share her information freely however. A group of paramilitary enforcers once tried to abduct her to wring information from her by force. Their abandoned headquarters still stinks of rotten meat, but no one is sure what happened to them. Ole Missy was back on the street cackling the next day.

CODY’S BAR

This is a popular dockside bar, and often the first place newcomers to Kadursk find themselves. It’s name is announced by a flickering sign in the grubby window overlooking the river, but no one remembers who Cody was (or is). The current bartender is called Max and is a huge and intimidating looking man with a surprising fondness for poetry and fine art. Oh, and an unforgiving approach to people causing trouble in “his place.”

There are many secluded corners, and it is a discreet place to meet and conduct business. Cody’s Bar occasionally hosts a cabaret night, but these tend to lead to absolute mayhem for various reasons.

LINK

Lincoln Freeze (Link to his friends, “and hey I like to think of you as a friend”) considers himself a powerbroker, a talent-broker and someone who can make things happen. He may get there one day. At the moment he is on the way up looking out for the next deal and the next valuable gem of knowledge rumour or gossip. A tall oriental man, who habitually wears a formal suit and overcoat (in defiance of the otherwise eclectic fashions of the city) he can be found doing the rounds of the bars and dives “keeping the wheels in motion.”

CAPTAIN THRAND

In so far as Kadursk has any police force, Thrand is in charge of it. Regular patrols of the Former Mordorian warriors keep the (important) streets (relatively) safe. Thrand is a squat, bow legged bully of a man with a long history of military atrocities behind him. He has a secure outpost in the market district which the patrols use as a mustering point.

Appallingly, Thrand fancies himself as a bit of a social climber and will try to ingratiate himself with important dignitaries who move to “his city.” His true quality generally shows through within hours however. Women in particular find his forthright manner repulsive.

Anyone who wants to come and enjoy the delights of Kadursk please feel free. All I'd ask is that you don't kill off other people's NPCs but feel free to add your own personalities and landmarks as well as conducting your own in character business.

Kadursk was set up as a haven for any diplomatic activity in the shadow of the immense wall around the Former Mordorian protectorate, so politicians and spies should find plenty to do. However the city is also very welcoming to traders, pirates, rogues, mercenaries, poets, minstrels, brigands, thugs, assassins, interior decorators and plagiarists.

OOC: the recent history of Captain Marcus Romanov

As the brother of the commanding officer of the Dundainain Armed Forces he is allowed to patrol rivers in command of his own division, many may not thing that this is fair but that is just too bad. While patroling a shoreline near the city of kadursk his platoon of 15 is attacked by gurillas. During the firefight the Captain and 1 of his Sergeants are seperated from the group after a retreat is ordered.
Soon they find the city of kadursk.

As they enter the town the discover it to be a place of lowlives and piracy. As the Captain and the Sgt enter the local bar they see many people that look battle hardened also.

IC: As the Sgt is getting a drink the Captain sits in a booth with what looks like a sailor from another country.

"Who are you?" asks the sailor

"I,...I am Captain Marcus Romaov of the Dundainian Armed Forces," says the captain.

"And that man over there, is my only surviving soldier from my platoon,.. well I think atleast." said Captain Romanov pointing at his Sergeant.

OOC: does that work??

OOC: Absolutely fine by me! Poor devils ending up in Kadursk by accident...

IC:

The sailor nodded gravely at Romanov. "The area is dangerous now," he muttered, "always has been... but now..." his words tailed off and he looked around furtively.

"Watch yourselves, friends. Watch your backs. Find allies here, if you can. You'll get stabbed in the back if you let your guard down, but you'll need help to survive."

He fell silent as a slim woman in a red blouse and combat fatigues drifted past. She turned a cold and enquiring gaze on the trio of drinkers then passed by.

"The watchers are everywhere. Don't for your soul's sake say anything against the Former Mordorians. Find a bolt hole, find a friend. Get out as soon as you can."

He stood up, leaving his half finished drink on the table.

"I've said too much."

He turned and shambled away from the table. Romanov and his companion watched him leave. Looking away from him they saw the woman in the red blouse had vanished from the bar.

tag, looks good.

As the sailor leaves the sgt takes a seat with too rather large looking drinks the Captain starts fumbling with his D-17 Rifle. As he changes his magazine and the sgt lights up a cigarette the door closing is heard. As Romanov looks he sees the man in Dundainian battle dress.

"Hey Soldier!!" says Romanov.

The soldier turns around and walks over to the table where the Romanov and the sgt are standing. Romanov notices his dress is torn and he is wounded in the right leg by a piece of shrapnel. When then soldier reaches the table all three stand up. The Sergeant makes a crisp salute to the wounded young Lieutenant. Then the Lieutenant salutes Romanov. Not a perfect military salute but all you can expect from a man in pain. As they all sit down the Sergeant is the first to break the silence.

"Would you like a cigar sir?"

"No thanks Sergeant." said the Lieutenant

(OOC In the future if the right things happen, we will start trade etc with you. Until then, great description!)

(OOC - Hi Veric! Yeah that would be great - you're obviously welcome to join in, but I'd already realised that given the plotline in "A nation rises..." that Veric could hardly have an ambassador anywhere yet - least of all here! Feel free to contribute background material and characters here though if you want, and then your own nation can arrive later if things work out that way)

(I know, that is why I said in the future it might happen once some of the problems in Veric ease up, namely transportation. I do not think I am going to get involved with this thread yet, I want to concentrate on the other one! :) )

"So Lt. (leiutenant) do you still have your rifle?" asked the Captain.

"No, I had to drop it, I have my Pistol though." replied the Lt.

The 3 stand up and pay for there drinks with some money that the sgt had sown in the lining of his vest. As the 3 soldiers walk down the street rifles in hand,pistol in the Lt's case, they are stopped by a man in a blue police uniform.

"I am Captain Thrand," said the cop.

"May we help you officer?" asked the Sgt

"Well only police officers and Domestic Military Personel are allowed to carry weapons in public," said the cop rather blatently.

"I am going to have to confiscate those," orders Thrand.

"You cannot take our weapons we need them," Said Romanov arguing with Thrand.

"And who are you to need weapons such as these?" said Thrand looking over the rifles.

"I've never even seen a rifle like these, and by the look of your clothes you look like some washed up war buffs," Yelled Thrand spitting in the face of the Sergeant.

"We are Soldiers for the Dundainian Armed Forces, and we got seperated from our unit during a firefight with guerrillas that your fat donut eating ass should be stopping so we will continue to carry our rifles," Said Romanov calmly then began to walk away.

"This place is a shit hole!" Said Romanov making an instant assumption at the quality of the city.

Thrand fumed at the newcomers as they paced away. Obviously new to the city they did not know to pay him servile obedience. They also did not know to pay him the customary "fee" to keep their weapons.

Well they would learn (or some of them would).

Thrand nodded to one of the armoured troopers watching from a nearby window. He was not foolish enough to wander the streets alone (though his reputation protected him from those who dwelt here)

Newcomers like those should be careful on the streets, Thrand thought to himself. There were lots of dangerous people around.

Wobbling with barely suppressed mirth Thrand entered the dingy door of a nearby cat-house to collect his payment for the month.

Nearby the trooper had relayed an order to a small band of armed river-rats, pirates and brigands who enjoyed receiving unofficial "gifts" in exchange for the occasional favour.

The leader of the rats, a bullet headed pit fighter called Kresk, cracked his knuckles in anticipation. "Knife work, boys and girls," he cackled.

--

A short distance away, the woman in the red blouse had watched the exchange between Thrand and the soldiers.

"That's all they need," she muttered, checking the clip on the silenced pistol she carried. "Guess those guys could use a guardian angel..."

OOC: being that no one is writing right now I will type more

IC: After Romanovs confrontation with the police he decided that he would need a place to stay.

On the way to the hotel Romanov sparks up a converstaion

"Lt. how many more men of my squadron made it out alive?"

"Well 4 more made it into town and 3 more may possible but i know that 5 fell we got there bodys into town though" said the Lt.

"Where are the other men?" asked Romanov

"Ohh there at the Hotel Room and the dead are at the City Mourge," explained the Lt. whos name was now know as Lt. Yuni Ivonavich

On the way to the hotel the sergeant who was now know as Rasputin Popov pulls out another cigar and lights it up.

As the Soldiers reach the hotel room they are greeted by 4 more soldiers 1 private,2 sergeants, and a 2nd Lt. Salutes are made all around the room and the soldiers sit down on the 2 beds and start lighting up cigars.

"Smoking is a terrible habit guys," says the private

"Shut the fuck up im stressed!" says the 2ndLt.

"Sorry Sir," says the private

Outside the hotel, the band of cut throats skulked gathering like a storm.

"Examples to be set, boys and girls," hissed Kresk, "examples to be set. Respect to be earned my fellows, yes."

He drew his grimy thumb along the keen edge of his blade. He looked at the dozen or so of the scum of Kadursk under his authority. "Carefully now my little ones, some round the back, some in the front. Quick sticks in and out, and a lovely present for you all."

---

On the flat roof of the building above them, the woman in the red blouse did a quick head count of the raiders. Only a dozen? She smiled a mirthless smile and walked back a half dozen paces in preparation for her jump across the gap between the buildings.

---

(OOC: I've got to go offline now! Please feel free to develop this to your heart's content. Back later on!)

"We need to do something about these guerillas," said Ivonavich

"Well there are 10 of us and hundreds of them how are we supposed to fight back?" asked Sgt. Popov.

"Well we will have to make a rag tag army and take out these guerillas," said Ivonavich"And if Romanov here didnt fuck up our connection with the cops the would have our backs."

After this statement all laugh but Romanov just stares at Ivonavich and then begins a laugh.

"Lets get to bed 2 on each bed and the rest on the floor the enlisted can get the beds" ordered Romanov

"Aye, Sir!" say the others in unison and get on the beds.

"Good Night Men," says Romanov

"Good Night Sir!" says the others once again in unison

OOC:I will reply again later i am going to bed c ya mordor btw if u have aim mordor IM me at p8ntbllpro

The festive spirit never really took hold in the Protectorate of the Former Mordorians, but in an effort to appear welcoming and diplomatic, it had been decided that a great feast should be held for outlander diplomats, ambassadors and merchants.

The invitations had been despatched to all and sundry, and final preparations were being made in the newly vacated Civic Building.

A squad of armoured troopers guarded the perimeter, as senior members of the diplomatic corps stalked around the gothic corridors adjusting the decorations and scowling at this frivolous waste of time.

"No one will come," sneered the long-faced Steward, Maretarn. His usual sombre garb replaced with a more colourful outfit. His perpetually miserable countenance not improved by the stray strand of tinsel that had fallen across his forehead.

"They'd better," said the young woman standing on the ladder he was holding, pausing for a second to adjust the decorative material to the pointy arched window. "After all, our glorious and beneficient Master has gone to a lot of expense."

She hopped down from the ladder, smoothing her long straight skirt and risking a smile at the older man.

He flicked the tinsel from his face.

"A waste of time and money, Caitlin. Why should we curry favour with these subhumans and outland dogs? Our Master should crush them beneath his iron heel and..."

The woman held up her hand. "That's enough of that. You have your orders Maretarn and I have mine. Tonight we play host and hostess to the dignitaries. Many things have changed since... since... before. But one thing remains. We follow orders."

"Mmm" Maretarn grumbled.

"Let's go check the food is ready." Caitlin went on. A spark of mischief prompting her to add: "Have you worked on your speech yet?"

Maretarn sighed resignedly.

OOC: Open invitation! Eat, drink and be merry in the convivial surroundings of a cosmopolitan city on the edge of a police state, at the expense of a monstrous dictator. Formal dress, bring a bottle, intrigue optional.

Though the nation was frowned upon by the Elvarin, they sent their minister of foreign affairs to truly assess this nation other than the report they received from the united nation. But also of an incident that happened within the ashwastes that Lord Colonel Lionel Brightwing was investigating...

I wished that Lionel was here, Lerathin grimaced silently to himself, His family is more famous for this then mine are

However with the Colonel out on some emperor forsaken self imposed mission, Lerathin actually had to do his job in person for once. Walking down the streets of this miss begotten nation, he realised that the people here appeared...different. Though he was naturally suspicious, it flared out of control before he clamped it down. His hand had this strange urge to head for his sword though he knew not why.

He was fast approaching his destination and hoped to the Gods that whatever he felt just then would not happen again.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

OOC: Is Lerathin here officially (diplomat) or unofficially (spy) - I'd typed up a welcoming committee for him then realised it might be the latter... I'm happy with either of course!

As the Platoon woke up the next morning and went outside they saw posters to the feast. This will be the perfect place thought Romanov. As they walked down town rifles in hand they ran into Thrand

"Were gonna need some clothes for this event men," said Romanov pointing at the sign.

"You mean, were going to that thing?" asked Ivonavich.

"Of course we are, that is were we are going to get some allies for the guerilla project,"said Romanov

"Maybe we can call for backup from home?!"added Popov

:::A Few Hours Later:::

As the Platoon is walking back to the hotel with there clothes in hand they hear a low pitched yell and gunshots. They run to the hotel drop of there stuf and all do into the part of the forest they heard it at. While inside they saw a guerrilla with an Ak-47 standing over a shivering young Dundainian private. As the guerilla looks up Romanov tags him with a shot in the neck.


"Are you okay soldier?"asked Romanov

"Yes Sir, I'll make it"replied the wounded soldier.

"We need to get you back to the hotel," said the 2nd Lt.

As the now 8 man platoon walks back to the hotel many look on as they carry on a strecher one of there wounded soldiers. The strecher made out of t-shirts and poles isnt the best one but it gets the job done.

OOC: Is Lerathin here officially (diplomat) or unofficially (spy) - I'd typed up a welcoming committee for him then realised it might be the latter... I'm happy with either of course!

OOC: Officially, sorry bout that

OOC: No problem - didn't want to spoil things!

IC:

"Honoured Lord?" came a polite and questioning voice from Lerathin's left. The speaker was a tall and fine featured man in a neatly tailored grey tunic with a darker cape. A sabre hung at his right hip. The man himself moved with a casual grace to salute, a smile on his face.

"I am Count Rorand Stelltor, I've been sent to escort you to your residence and make you welcome." The young man had a pleasant air about him, but with the slightest hint of humour that over time could set one on edge. "It must have been a bugger of a journey, the river and roads are so busy these days. Or did you fly in?"

Rorand laughed, for no reason Lerathin could see.

"Anyway, welcome to the wonderful city of Kadursk. Once seen, never forgotten, city of a thousand delights (or so I'm told, I've only ever noticed three, and one of those left town recently). Your residence is here, my Lord, I hope it's to your satisfaction."

OOC: Please feel free to get whatever type of residence you like!

IC:

"I'm also to extend an invitation to our seasonal festivities over at the old Forum. Do drop by, very informal. I'll pick you up at eight shall I? Do call me Rory by the way, all my friends do."

The eyes sparkled with mockery.

"And I don't have any living enemies."

The young woman in the red blouse winced as her companion applied antiseptic dressings to the knife wound in her upper arm.

"You will get yourself into these situations Liz," the oriental man chided. "That's $100 dollars - ten for the dressings, ninety for-"

"For the confidential treatment, yeh Link I know." She shrugged her armoured jacket back on. "Any luck finding out where they came from?"

Link smiled and shook his head. "Not yet. Looks like that troop are survivors of an ambush by the guerrilla forces roundabout. They seem completely oblivious to the danger they're in. Didn't even notice your little firefight last night."

Liz raised her eyebrows in disbelief. She'd dropped three of the River Rats, the rest had fled (including Kresk damn him) and the foreign troopers inside the hotel had never stirred.

"They'll learn, or they'll die." she said plainly. It was a proverb in the city.

"I got that little package for you," Link smiled at her as she paid for the treatment.

"The invitation to the feast?" Liz answered in disbelief. Those invitations were rarer than hens teeth.

Link passed her a black envelope. The warrioress opened it and slid out the embossed card within. "Hell, how did you get this?"

"Ask no questions," said Link. "you can pay me for that tomorrow."

She slipped the card into her combat jacket and nodded.

"Namarie" And she slipped out of the half ruined building into the street.

With an eyebrow raised, for Lerathin was unused to such brash humour, though humans were always strange to him. Nodding in ascent, he followed his guide to a nice opulent building that stunned Lerathin with its extravagance.

"So this is my residence for the next few days?", Lerathin asked in curiousity, for it seemed to be beyond a practical design to house foreign dignitaries.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

That night the 8 soldiers are walking to the party in there newly bought clothing making sure that they had armerments when they left they had a chest holster with a desert eagle. When arriving at the feast there was modern music playing and a loooooooooooooooooong table filled with different foods, most that Romanov had never seen before.

"Men stay together, we all will sit together 4 on each side of the table to watch our 6," directed Romanov

After Romanov's command instantly the soldiers took there seat. After a long speach by Thrand and another offical the feast had began.

Loft, stepped off of his ship and onto the aging dock. It was late and the only sound was that of the water slapping in rhythm.. Odd, he thought, seeing all the ships but yet not seeing any people. Sighing he caught the lights of a bar within a reasonable distance. As he walked toward the oncoming smell of beer and sounds of the music he caught a sudden movement from the shadows. A hand was reaching toward his side, reacting and not thinking Loft grabbed the hand and pivoted. Moving in a small circle and executing the body drop that he had been trained in for countless years. He heard the mans arm snap at the elbow followed by the all to familiar scream.

Hardly slowing down Loft finished the little circle, walking on toward the beer and company that he hoped was ahead in the lights. If it were only for a night, it would be a welcome break from riding the waters for yet another night.

“CODY’S BAR” obviously stated in the dim window, blinking more off than on. Walking in, Loft saw the bar and crossed the room. No one seemed to notice. They never did, which was fine with Loft. Watching often taught him more about a town and the people in it than doing. People always told their own story, if given time.

Sitting down at the bar, Loft caught his boyish, yet tired eyes. No one ever guessed his age correctly until they saw the crows’ feet in his eyes and the multi threads of grey in his beard. Across the bar, severing, seemed a rather rough and fearsome man. The type of man that often didn’t know how to fight, mostly because he never had to. No one ever wanted to fight a giant. Loft liked being around this type of man, because typically, the low lives feared men like this. The thought of the man back on the dock with the broken arm flashed through his mind, and then there are the ones people think they can fight so they go after those that seem weak.

“Bar Keep” A Black and Tan please.

As everyone ate Romanov gave the Sgt the nod. Slowly the sgt stood, drew his pistol and fired a round into the air. Instantly all conversations stopped and everyone turned to the table that Romanov and the rest were sitting at.

"Attention People of Kadursk I humbly request that you aid the 3rd Marine Squadron of the Dundainian Armed Forces fight the guerrillas who have made you all live in fear for so long." said Romanov in a speech type voice.

After this was said many stood and joined Romanov, many laughed, and some didnt say anything at the fear the pistol might be directed at someone. During this rather awkward moment the guard outside came in and grabbed Romanov and his men.

"Support our Revolution!!" yelled Romanov as he was carried out.

After being kicked out of the feast he decided to get a drink at the bar.

As Romanov walks in he sees a tired looking sailor. He decides to
to sit in the same booth as him.

"Whats your name?" askes Romanov

They call me Loft, as he sipped his beer. Some of the dark suds still sticking to his beard. This seems like a rather strange place, but any port in a storm I guess.

You?

I am Captain Marcus Romanov and this is my 3rd Marine Squadron of the Dundainian Armed Forces, well whats left of them, we were attacked earlier by some guerrillas we still have 2 Soldiers MIA and the other 5 are KIA

Nice to meet you Captain. <Damn Farking Guerrillas thought Loft>

I hope you got all the Sons of Bitches. Any idea why they hit you?

nope they just poped out and killed 5 of my men
we had to go into full retreat those who made it out have wandered here except 2. Anyways were trying to get a rag tag military together and take out the guerrillas

Rory tapped at some of the ornate sculptured designs on the gatepost of the mansion allocated to Lerathin.

"Oh, only the best d'ye see for our elder brethren. The former owner volunteered to be moved out."

"Volunteered?"

"Well, you know. Said the wrong thing to the wrong man in the wrong way. That's one way of getting volunteered out of most things round here."

The swaggering young pup dusted off his knuckles and clicked his heels together.

"Well my Lord Ambassador, I hope you settle in. The great feast is on tonight, it may even be underway. Perhaps I'll see you there."

Rory turned on his heel and strode away whistling to himself.

I lost my son to guerrillas, many years ago. I hunted them all down one by one. Broke their bones one at a time, till they begged for death. <Lofts eyes go away for awhile, replaced are these coals that seem to burn>.

Taking another swig of beer and coming back,Loft asks You don't know why they hit you, do you know who it was that hit you? Beyond just, "guerrillas". They usually have a clan or tribe, a country of a leader. Or is this just one of those groups of scumbags acting on their own?

I assume they hit you and you were not expecting it. Sounds to me like you need to find out a little more about them so that you can take them out. Like what are their numbers, equipment, location? Guards?

I've fought those kind before, and I am around for a few days if you would like some help. <Crap, thinks Loft.....So much for a quiet stopover>

Liz, now attired in a stunning and expensive ballgown, looking most unlike her street persona was still goggling at the aftermath of the revolutionary outburst. She barely noticed the figure taking a seat beside her.

"Interesting incident eh madam?"

She looked round, recognising the insolent tone. The smiling features of Count Rorand Stelltor met hers. She instantly made a grab beneath the table for her concealed pistol but his hand caught hers and held it fast.

"Careful now Lizzy, you're fast but you know I'm faster. If I'd wanted to expose you I'd just have to raise my voice. Obviously that's not my goal."

"What game are you playing Stelltor?"

"No game, Busy Lizzy, just being alert. Being a good servant for my masters."

"You no more serve the Mordorians than I do. How much are they paying you?"

"Money," Rory quipped, "is sooooo vulgar. Let's settle down and watch the entertainment. It looks like Thrand is about to have a coronary."

He divested her of the pistol and pocketed it before pouring them each a glass of wine.

Across the room, Thrand was giving orders to a squad of armoured troopers.

"TEAR THIS CITY APART TILL YOU FIND THOSE MANIACS! BRING ME THEIR HEADS!"

OOC: are they talking about me??

"Well Loft we were on patrol of the river coast when 3 of them poped out of a hole and 3 more out of another
and 3 more out of another and 3 more out of another until they had a semi circle around us. They were too organized to be a gang type faction they had to be government gunmen. I know someone around here wants us killed i just havent figured out who yet. So Loft ill see you later then," said Romanov standing up. He drops a 20 for the drinks
He hands Loft a card that Reads

Captain Marcus Romanov
Room #172
Kurdusk Lux. Hotel

OOC: It's possible the police chief is indeed talking about the armed revolutionaries that gatecrashed a banquet for diplomats, unleashed live ammunition into the ceiling and attempted to raise an army. Thrand is pretty sensitive about such things, even if the gunmen in question haven't previously insulted his doughnut eating ass earlier in the day. Good fun though!

IC:

A tall, well dressed oriental man dashed into the main room at Cody's Bar.
After a quick word with the bartender he was heard to curse loudly, and approached the table where Loft was sitting.

"Hey my friend, new in town? Listen carefully, my name is Link and you could be in trouble. I read people pretty well and I guess that's nothing new to you." Link looked around, but did not sit. "The guys you were talking with earlier seriously p**sed off the local head cop and every diplomat this side of the sunset. They don't take kindly to embarassment and there's a squad of heavy weapons UH on their way here right now.

Now I know you're not part of their crazy outfit, but if people peg you as a contact it'll be time to stare into a bulb and answer harsh questions. Find yourself somewhere to lie low.

Normally I charge for advice this good, but right now I'm in a hurry."

Link nodded at Loft and walked quickly from the room. Several other patrons also did a quick fade.

Back in the hotel the sgt fixed the broken communicator that had damaged in the fight.

Sgt: now we can call for some back up from the base not too far away.

Romanov(using comm system):Echo base this is 3rd marine squadron do you read? over.

Echo Base:We read what the hell happened to you guys.

Romanov:Well we got ambushed by guerrillas and we lost 5 men and 2 are MIA. We need back up now.

Echo Base(EB):Were are you know?

Romanov: I am in the city of Kudursk across the river.

EB:What backup do you want?

Romanov: Send me the 1st Tank Corps and uhh The 6th Army Ranger Platoon.

EB: ok so 15 HT-12s and 30 Rangers?

Romanov: Affirmative we are at the Kudaursk Lux. Hotel.
when can they be here?

EB: 2 hours.

Romanov: Thanks, Romanov out.

EB:No Problem, Echo out.

As Romanov walks outside the hotel He sees his tanks pull through town and an assortment of soldiers. As everyone looks at them you can hear several people mumble, those are the same uniforms that those trouble makes from the party last night wear. As the Forces Reach Romaov the top hatch of the front tank opens and a man pops out and salutes Romanov.

(In the middle of the streets)

Romanov: At Ease Soldiers!

Soldiers: Aye Sir!

Romanov: I Want you all to make defensive positions

Romanov: Commanding Officers come here

(officers come forward)

Romanov: ok men tommarow we will move to town hall and persuade the government to give us more soldiers.We also need more intel on this guerrilla Faction.

Romanov:THE LIVES LOST IN THIS POOR SISSY AMBUSH WILL NOT BE TOLOTATED AND THEY WILL BE REVENGED..DO IT FOR THE LOST 7!!

Soldiers:(cheer)

Romanov: 5 KIA and 2 MIA they are who we will fight for. Show them no mercy!!!!!!!

Soldiers: (cheer while raising rifles in air)

Lerathin shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly as the count walked away, but he decided that to go to the party would be better so that he can judge the people and government more accurately. He followed the count quietly, remaining unobeserved because he felt uncomfortable with this human. Lerathin soon arrived at the party being held in a civic building and was mildly impressed by the effort that went into this occasion.

He curiously watched and listened unnoticed, the exchange between the count and a fine lady, hearing every word and smiling to himself. Elfin ears are very useful in these lands, Lerathin grinned in quiet amusement. He knew that he would find it interesting to 'chat' to the lady, soon enough.

And across the room, some heavily armoured figures were given orders in an overly excessive loud voice considering how close they were to the person.

Things arent what they seem to be in this land, Lerethain remembered

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

The next morning as Romanov walks out of the hotel the entire Dundainian Military was already assembled and standing at attention.

Romanov: At Ease men. Is our diplomatic officer in?

Diplomat(DP): Yes

Romanov: Then get to city hall and do you job soldier

DP: Yes Sir!

(The two salute and the dp turns on heel and walks to city hall with 4 soldier escort.)

OOC:(bump)

OOC: Dundaine can I ask you to mellow out a tad - your troopers have just effectively launched a military incursion into a foreign nation... diplomatically it may be better to try another angle. The Former Mordorians have no problem with responding in force to what they would see as an invasion, but since your goal is just to take out some guerrilla forces perhaps a lower key response would have less chance of --er-- misinterpretation? If you do want to go for the "invade the city" approach can I ask that you at least keep the tank division outside the city to allow RP to take place within the city while the entire forces of Former Mordor respond to your invasion - the thread was for RP rather than war you see.

It's unlikely that tank platoon would have been able to enter the city unchallenged anyway. Let me know how you want to take this.

Count Rory raised his glass of wine to the Ambassador of the Elvarin.

"Look who's watching us Busy Lizzy," he teased his unwilling companion. "Do you think he gives a damn about us, about you and your people's struggle."

Liz refused to answer, face pale with anger, though not a trace of apprehension showed.

"Cat got your tongue?" Rory sipped his drink. "Never mind. The elder people have their own problems now, old alliances quickly get forgotten in the shuffle of diplomacy and war. 'Don't amount to a hill of beans' " he quipped.

Liz stood.

"I'm leaving."

"Escort you home?"

"Want to keep the use of your legs?" she snapped.

Rory laughed and palmed her pistol out of his pocket, slipping it into her purse. "Better take this, the streets can be rough."

Glaring at him for a second, Liz thought better of making a scene. Diplomats from a dozen kingdoms and nations sat around, most with armed bodyguards. And Thrand, though he was a useless corrupt blob of lard, was also in charge of scores of men with heavy weaponry.

If Thrand knew how close he was to one of the Former Mordorian's most hated and feared opponents things might go... badly.

She turned on her heel and slipped from the room.

Rory didn't even turn to watch her go, smiling instead at a dark skinned ambassador from a southern nation, a beautiful woman with feline eyes.

"Ah, diplomacy" he toasted himself.

Loft watched the strange man after he delieved his warning to Loft, Loft stood to leave. How could the man know. Sure, being pulled in and made to stare at a bulb could scare some. But to Loft it could be a welcome break.

After all, Loft would only go and now stare at his ceiling. While he layed there for one more night without sleep the chorus of screams would fill his head and dreams. First would some those of his son, followed by the those that Loft had hunted down. And joined with a few other to finally finish with the man on the dock.

Loft walked off to find a room for the night, the beer and the nights happenings still fresh. He looked at the card and thought he would find a room there. It seemed as good as any other place not to sleep. And after a day or so, maybe the contact he had made would have some more information and knowledge of his foe.

After all, one can not hunt a ghost.

OOC: Former Mordorians - I've moved to your region is this ok? I dont know if I have to do that to be in the RP, but if it's ok i'll stay there.

IC:

The government of Hendinia was suspicious of the new state of the Former Mordorians, especially due to the enormous wall they were building around their people. It's never easy to have a police state growing nearby, especially one that seemed to be going to such trouble to keep its dealings secret.

As a result the Hendinian govt was keen to get a man on the ground. Their ambassador, Sir Henry Gottland, was a former military hero now a middle aged politician. Tall, stout and heavily whiskered with a penchant for fine wines and good food. Good company, with a broad sense of humour and a seemingly open and charitable disposition.

The new Embassy was located in the good area of Kadursk in what appeared to be a former private mansion with expansive grounds in which stood obscure and unusual statues. While most of the staff were settling in, and the captain of the bodyguard was taking a survey of the security aspects of the building, Sir Henry rode in a limo to the feast that was being held.

The miserable steward Martetarn welcomed him at the door then handed him over to the much more pleasant woman Caitlin who showed him to the banqueting hall. There seemed to be a lot of pleasant conversation with guarded subtexts going on. Sir Henry tried to give Caitlin an experimental squeeze as she helped him to a chair but she tactfully evaded his maneuver and walked away summoning a waiter to take Sir Henry's order.

BACK at the embassy however, Hendinia's REAL man on the ground got to work. His name was Jack Stryker, officially listed in the military records as retired due to injury, but actually one of Hendinia's top deniable agents. Shucking off his suit and tie in exchange for the grungy leathers and cheap plastic shades that so many of the low life scum of this city wore, he slipped unobserved out of the embassy to see if he could make any useful contacts to learn about what was happening beyond the wall.

OOC: Dundaine can I ask you to mellow out a tad - your troopers have just effectively launched a military incursion into a foreign nation... diplomatically it may be better to try another angle. The Former Mordorians have no problem with responding in force to what they would see as an invasion, but since your goal is just to take out some guerrilla forces perhaps a lower key response would have less chance of --er-- misinterpretation? If you do want to go for the "invade the city" approach can I ask that you at least keep the tank division outside the city to allow RP to take place within the city while the entire forces of Former Mordor respond to your invasion - the thread was for RP rather than war you see.

It's unlikely that tank platoon would have been able to enter the city unchallenged anyway. Let me know how you want to take this.

The tanks are now outside of the city i aplogise for shitty rp

OOC: Hey no problem! I didn't mean to sound insulting, only wanted to clarify how far, in character, you wanted things to go. Thanks for responding without flamage. So can I clarify how I see things so I can frame a response?

- survivors of an ambush within the city have contacted their home nation for support

- home nation is sending troops to the area (though probably not actually trundling through the city :D )

- local (Former Mordorian) government probably aware of approaching forces but not sure why

If this is how you see things, cool. If not, please clarify & I'll try to frame an appropriate response for you (or other RPers in this thread can).

Thanks again

OOC: that is correct our small task force isnt here to intimidate or invade just to deal with people who have killed our own

OOC: Splendid! I don't have time to post much tonight, but tomorrow no doubt there will be developments from the nearby paranoid nationstate.

In the meantime your guys are likely to notice increased levels of anxiety in the city as word starts to spread that armoured units have been seen advancing from the south (ie your reinforcements!). The main concern seems to be that the neighbours beyond the wall (the Former Mordorians) may seek to occupy Kadursk in order to protect it.

As the diplomat returns he reports to romanov that the kadursk city council refuses to send trrops in with the dundaine troops.

Romanov: We move out tommarow then.

This is the plan we blow out the front forest line. Then send the troops in.

Romanov: Lt!

Lt.: Yes sir?

Romanov: Did you get that napalm drop in?

Lt.: Yes sir, it is going to be dropped tonight. They wont expect it. that is if they celebrate christmas.

Romanov: Good tell them to burn down a direct path to the base from the city

Lt: Roger

Romanov: Sergeant

Sgt: Yes Sir!

Romanov: Get these men running and exersizing, there getting fat and lazy.

Sgt: Yes Sir!!

Sgt(to soldiers):Get off your backsides u fat asses were going to do some good ol' fashoned PT

Soldiers: Yes Sgt!

Random soldier: I thought we were done with this in Basic, fuck!

bump

Thrand, chief of the security in the city of Kadursk, was not enjoying himself.

The diplomatic feast had already been disrupted by the same gun wielding militia who had publicly humiliated him twice that day (once verbally, once when they survived the hit squad he had sent after them).

Even worse, the troopers he had sent to tear apart the city had not managed to find any trace of them. They were obviously expert at hiding out (unless of course they'd just checked into a hotel, after all, who would look there).

Now, sitting gloomily in the banquetting hall he realised that he was likely to leave alone, the young lady he had been hoping to charm had proven very suspicious of the spiked drink he had prepared and had gone off to talk to a very friendly looking avuncular type from Hendinia.

Thrand spat on the floor and cursed. Then he was disturbed by a subtle "ahem" from behind him.

"Balls," Thrand cursed as he turned and saw the long faced Maretarn glowering down at him. "What do you want you horse jawed buffoon."

"A word," the steward confided, "in private, from Intelligence."

"Balls twice."

--

The two men stood in a small empty room, the music from the feasting hall barely discernible.

"Pay attention Captain Thrand, this is very important. Those... soldiers... whoever they are, are to be left alone for now." Maretarn waved a hand to silence Thrand's sudden outburst. "For now. Intelligence has reported their headquarters have despatched attack craft of some kind, probably for an aerial bombardment. Intelligence suggests they are likely to try to clear the outer edges of the Eldreshka forest."

Thrand perked up. "Where those guerrilla forces have been raiding."

"The same. These warriors have a score to settle. If we let them settle it, then not only do we get the guerrillas out of our hair, we also have an excuse to bulldoze the outer fringes of the forest to clear the devastation. More land, less cover for revolutionaries."

"Har!" chortled Thrand, raising his wine glass and sloshing a teardrop of red down his shirt. "Excellent. And after these Dundaine soldiers do our dirty work for us, we can demand reparations for their damage to our country."

"Precisely."

"Good news Maretarn, you bloody old fool you, good news!" Thrand actually capered on the spot. "I'll get back to the feast now!" He practically skipped from the room.

"Oaf." muttered Maretarn, following at a discreet distance.

While the lavish feast was going on in the forum building, Jack Stryker the Hendinian agent was moving thru less pleasant areas downtown, near the docks, trying to get a feel for this place. He saw plenty of shady deals taking place, and noticed denizens of a dozen nearby nations just trying to make a living. There was an air of desperation about the whole city, a grim paranoia that seemd to be a result of living in the shadow of the immense Mordorian wall nearby.

One particular subject was dominating the currency of rumour and concern. In a dingy bar called "Cody's" Stryker overheard two men whispering together. "I hear there's an army on the way."
"To Kadursk? To THEM?" (Strkyer recognised the local euphemism for the Former Mordorians)
"Dunno" said the other man, "but it's likely to spill into Kadursk anyway aint it? You and me need to find a hideout, get hidden. Then we can pop back up and make a fortune sellin' off those lovely weapons we managed to pick up."
"They're a bit rickety."
"Rubbish, they fire don't they? THat's all people care about. Come on Rutter, let's go check the stock and get undercover before the shooting starts."

Stryker bought another drink, watching the two wannabe arms dealers slink out of the bar.

An army on the way? Likely an exaggeration, he thought, but worth keeping an ear open.

Loft woke, if you could call what he did at night sleeping. He decided he had waited long enough. He did have plans after all, even if he was just stopping over. Laughing, even if he was just helping someone out.

Loft left town and in the darkness found what looked to be the site of many ambushes. It was the kind of location that made a terrorists heart skip a beat. Sitting back he waited.

In the cold and rain he knew it would only be a matter of time before one of them came out from sleeping. Sure as life, one of the bastards seemed to appear out of thin earth and air. Almost even surprising Loft. He went deeper into the woods and dropped his pants. This mornings dump would be the last for this one.

As he finished and pulled his pants up all he felt was a sudden increase in his blood pressure as he seemed to fall back, followed by everything turning black. Lofts elbow was over the mans windpipe, while the muscles in his arm had shut off the blood going to his head. Taking the knee out and inhaling softly had locked it in. The fool was out with in 6 seconds and without having the ablility for even a sound.

Picking up the live corpse and tosing him over his shoulder, Loft walked back to the Hotel. It was still dark, when Loft walked into the hotel Lobby. Loft laid his prize on the floor, hog tied him and pinned a note to his ass.

The note read:

There is more where this came from. Find out what you can. I suppose otherwise you were going to kill a fly using a tank or something?

As the napalm is dropped the forests slowly burn downand faint screams can be heard in the distance.

They had found something.

Romanov: Get those tanks firing.

Tank Commander: Aye Sir! Fire!

Romanov: Get the soldiers mobilized and battle ready

Command Sgt:Yes Sir! Lets go men grab your rifles and get you gear on were going in.

Romanov: Get those planes out of there! Raido man!

Radioman: Yes?

Romanov: Call in for a reinforcement from the space fleet tell them to send a drop ship down. 30 more people

Radioman: Aye Sir!

Sgt: Sir the other 2 were found last night,..the MIA's

Romanov: Status!

Sgt:1 dead 1 alive but barely

Romanov: where are they?

Sgt: Resting in the hotel. All of the 6 bodys are at the base in dundaine.

Romanov:Thank you now get moving.

Sgt: Aye

Loft watches the billowing smoke, rise above the ground and what was once trees. Although they would be easier to see now when the came out of their tunnels and caves, they would also be hard to dispatch up close and personal like. Sighing, Loft finished his coffee.

That is, if any are left. But the head of the snake may still be loose, most likely, Loft thought, the person in charge was no where close to those blasts..

As the space drop had landed the infantry were told to move into the forest under the cover of tank fire



xxxxxxxxxxxxxx x = tank fire .=Infantry


. . . . . . . . . . . .. . .


The tank fire led them as they walked through the forest. sometimes they would come to clearings and dead guerrillas are there.


As romanov was advancing with his troops he found a gurrilla that was hit by a bullet in the crotch. Romanov goes up to him and grabs his neck.


Romanov: Where is your base!

Guerrilla(G):Fuck you!

Romanov: Tell me or I will rip whats left of your balls off!
(grabs guerrillas crotch)

G:Ok ok ok I will tell you! its 2 clicks south west of here.

Romanov: Thank you.

(drops guerrilla ans slowly walks away)

Romanov then turns around and shoots the guerrilla in the head and walks away.

Romanov: Radioman!

Radioman: Yes sir?

Romanov : The radio please?

Radioman: oh sorry sir.

Romanov: Viktor this Marcus do you read?

V. Romanov: Yea what you need

Romanov: Move the tanks up and aim at the coordnates 2 clicks southwest of here.

V.Romanov:Roger

Romanov: Romanov out

V.Romanov: Dido

Romanov: All infantry report on my position

Multiple people:Yes Sir!

bump

BUMP

Liz sat on the roof of her unofficial home, hidden among the shattered gargoyles and other detritus of a civilisation in ruins. Powerful binoculars allowed her to scan the activity beyond the city.

"Looks like a major bombardment," she thought to herself, "but the vessels aren't Mordorian. What the hell's going on?"

She knew the forest was home to a variety of guerrilla troops and other outcasts, a thorn in the side to any traveller in the region, but equally a threat to the Mordorians.

The forest was also one of the few avenues of covert approach to the nation and she had been relying on it for the safe transport of materials and personnel for some time.

More worryingly though, who were these outland troops that had launched this attack? Their insignia matched that of the small band of survivors she had protected the day before. Why were the dictatorial Mordorians allowing foreign military action on the edges of their land.

"They're up to something" she said aloud.

Slipping gracefully from her concealment she clambered through the trapdoor down into the roof space that was her current hideout.

OOC: I'm back from back breaking labour!!

IC: Perched behind one of the many gargoyles and hidden in the shadows with a camo cloak, Lerathin smiled as he watched the human disappeared with graceful skill for one of her kind. He had followed her, slipping quietly from the party and trailed her. He was curious and wanted an unofficial source about this strange city, but was amused when she went covert. Ah well, i think i will just knock on her door and find out what will happen, Lerathin grinned mischeviously, Here goes nothing

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

OOC: This is a great thread... I might have Siri visit, and put an embassy and/or set up a MISSION presence in the city. (MISSION = Menelmacari Imperial Secret Service Intelligence Operations Network - it's Menelmacar's intel agency, and they're very good at what they do.)

Could you perhaps tell me a bit about the history of the area and the city? Especially the name of the country... 'former mordorians'?

Thanks. :)

~Siri

OOC to Elvarin: Glad you're still in one piece!
OOC to Menelmacar: I've sent you a telegram with some details... thanks for the kind words re: the thread and of course you're very welcome to 'pop in'


IC:

The unexpected knock on the trapdoor sent an already edgy inhabitant into an uncharacteristic panic. Liz dived to the floor of the roofspace, rolling behind an angled wooden beam, her silenced pistol already in her hand and covering the trap.

As she thumbed off the safety catch she realised from the dullness of the 'klik' that the gun was missing its magazine. Damn that arrogant Count Stelltor and his games!

At this point the trapdoor lifted from above and a grey shadow seemed to fall into the room, landing with praeterhuman grace and precision. Liz suddenly felt like a long carried burden had been lifted from her. She stood from her concealment, slipping the gun back into her hip holster.

'You were at the feast,' she stated, raising a hand in greeting toward Lerathin. 'A star shines on the hour of our meeting. Though they shine dimly in this place, if at all.'

'Please tell me,' she went on, as she moved toward the strange newcomer, 'that you're bringing good news.'

Lerathin was stunned with her almost casual acceptance of an elf falling through her trapdoor, but he smiled and responded, "Please forgive me for following you but I must say, I found it intrigueing listening to your discussion with the count and thought that it would be worthwhile to have a quiet chat with you. In fact, i was hoping you would give me news. I would like to know of your city through your eyes. And as well, I would like to know about the master of this land".

And of yourself, Lerathin thought quietly.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Liz nodded slowly, framing her response.

"This is not my city." she said quietly. "If Kadursk belongs to anyone or anything, it could be said to belong to desperation. The Shadow that has risen behind that wall" (she gestured to the east) "has drawn a border round its own land for now, but even here on the edge of the Shadow it drains the life out of humankind."

She paused as she sat down on a small wooden packing crate from which a small corner of brighly coloured silk hung.

"My name is Elizabeth of the house of Temrin," she continued, and Lerathin could tell by her tone that the name and title were both meaningful to her, and had not been uttered for some time. "Our people once ruled in the land that is now beyond that wall. But it was *not* the same land. It is hard to describe, hard to understand."

Her voice faltered and she lowered her head into her hands. She had not allowed this emotion to surface for... for too many years, but now in the presence of this elven ambassador ancient memories were shaking loose.

"One day the land was as it should have been. The next day we were under that Shadow. And on that day it was as if it had always been thus. A bare handful of us remember the days before the change... and none of us can explain it."

She met Lerathin's gaze, her own eyes a flawless blue.

"Where did your people go, my lord? Why have we been left friendless in this world?"

Overcomed with sympathy, Lerathin still managed a reply, "Our kind has long been sleeping from the world, but we have finally awaken to restore abit of light in an otherwise darkened world", he continued, "We never left, but was only forgotten but now we have returned and so have many other of the old ones".

He asked her, "The House Of Temrin? Are you of human aristocracy? Or a mix of the Old blood among the newer races?"

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Liz's eyes filled with unexpected tears.

"Stelltor was right," she said quietly, "the old alliances are forgotten... No matter, with these strange changes who can say what is or was real anyway."

"What I was," she went on, "who my kindred were, these things are of the past. I am concerned with what is now, what is today. My people are being ground beneath the accursed heel of that dark land, and every day their souls are being corrupted. I had hoped you were bringing news of aid, or at least that the rest of the world remembered us."

She reached up past Lerathin to close the trapdoor above him, blotting out the dim light that filtered into the room.

"But I was wrong."

Feeling a strange protectiveness over this human, Lerathin felt compelled to ask, "What aid do you seek? And who or what has gained such power over your people?".

He turned to face her, "Our kind and yours may have been forgotten, but we are here and now. Tell me what I need to know and I will tell you when the 'forgotten' warriors of the Elvarin will restore what was lost and what shall be remembered once more".

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Liz was about to answer when she suddenly fell silent at an almost inaudible noise in the building below them. Lerathin's keen senses also registered the sound of stealthy footfalls.

The two individuals looked at each other, in a silent moment of resolve.

---

On the other side of the city, Thrand gloated over a computer display mounted into an antique cabinet, the cables punched roughly through the polished wood.

"Squad Alpha, keep the perimeter secure, Squad Beta move in on the enemy. Bring them in alive if you can." He spoke into a bulbous microphone mounted on the desk in front of him.

"It seems you Intelligence boys are good for something," he snarled at Maretarn. "Who'd have thought one of the stinking eldar would have the brass globes to waltz into our city and make contact with Miss - flaming - revolutionary - Temrin - bitch?"

Maretarn inclined his head at the back handed compliment he'd been given. "He was almost impossible to follow, but Count Stelltor had made provision for that. We were expecting some form of trouble. The Master, the Great and Omniscient One, forewarned us of this. There is a new alliance of elven nations."

Thrand nearly choked on his sandwich at this.

From the computer in front of him, a tinny voice: "Squad Beta in position, preparing to attack."

--

"I'm out of ammo," said Liz to Lerathin as they heard the stealthy approach of the soldiers beneath. "and all I've got is this knife." She drew a short practical hunting weapon.

Lerathin smiled calmly at her, "We shall blend into the shadows together with my camo cloak for I must not be seen with you if i am to continue my 'diplomatic' mission in this land. But if we are found, then there is no choice but for us to fight together".

Gazing at the trapdoor, "Now lets see if we can avoid them by getting out of here", moving to lift it, he turned to her, "Be careful when we get out, and if they have got our exits blocked, then join me with my camo cloak. They cant catch us if they cant see us".

And with that he gracefully leapt out, and turned back to lend a hand.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

...and found her already on the roof alongside him. Her agility and grace surprised him. For a human she seemed very capable.

The two moved with astonishing silence to the edge of the roof, and fell still, the camo cloak around them both.

More soldiers, the brutal warriors of the Former Mordorians were visible despite their crude attempts at concealment in doorways across the street.

"We should be able to avoid them," whispered Liz, "but it will be difficult."

The matter of fact way she said this suggested that seeing a task as difficult was not a bar to its attempt, but a mere evaluation of what had to be done.

Nodding in agreement, Lerathin noted that there were shadows at regular intervals behind the gargoyles that he used to followed Liz. Signalling her towards the silent spectres, and pointed downwards towards the soldiers to show her when they were looking the other way, that they were to make their move.

Keeping the cloak around them both, Lerathin cant help but admire her skill but he also felt as if he knows her. But thats impossible, Lerathin mused, Never in my six hundred years, have I met as someone as astonishing as she

But he had no more time for such thoughts as they made their way towards cover and safety.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

With awe inspiring patience, precision and confidence the two fugitives moved invisibly and silently across the roof to a point where they were able to slip down onto a broken wall top adjacent to the building.

Once at street level their task was easier and they quickly moved to a safe point a street away.

"We should be careful about meeting," said Liz quietly as they passed a curious crowd of onlookers gawking at the sealed-off road they had recently left. "You should return to your home my lord, before they think to seek for you there to prove your absence."

She stepped quickly away from Lionel, then turned back.

"It feels like a new dawn has risen," she said, then caught herself as though she dare not voice such a hope. "You can reach me through Cody's bar. Leave a message with Max. Be careful."

Lerathin arm arced out and grabbed her's before he realised what he was doing, but it was too late for that. "And you too, be careful young one", he said awkwardly.

And with that, he left her blending back into the shadows and ran quietly, his footsteps unheard as he lightly touched the ground, almost as if he was flying. Must get back to the residence, Lerathin cursed profusely as he realised that he endangered himself and his mission because he went for a foray that brought unexpected results.

He spotted his residence and with a leapt and turning samersault in the air, he cleared the fence and ran towards the decorated walls and began scaling it towards his room. Reaching his window, Lerathin climbed in and quickly hid his camo cloak and placed his sword on his bed, before turning to his table to act as if he was composing a letter to the council.
I believe several hours here on the table then sleep will suffice me, Lerathin mused and began writing.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN, 'NO ONE THERE' " Thrand roared, spittle flying in streams from his corpulent mouth.

The leader of the platoon hung his head, shaking it sullenly.

"Empty, house empty."

"Inbred cretin," screamed Thrand slapping the man harshly across the face. "We had intelligence! She was there! Public b**tard enemy number b**tard one and she was there! You let her slip through your fingers! I ought to send you to the hives for this."

"House empty."

"Oh get out!" Thrand aimed a kick at the retreating soldier. Behind Thrand, perched on a corner of his desk, Count Rorand Stelltor opened Thrand's cigar box and helped himself.

"Wonderful authority you wield," he chortled, lighting up and blowing blue-grey smoke over Thrand's left shoulder. "The way the man rally to you is wonderful to see."

"Shut your mouth you pimp," Thrand countered, "you said the bitch was there."

"Well, she's run rings round you before old man. Perhaps if you were leading the troops your incisive brain would provide the break you need."

Thrand scowled at the insolent smile on Rory's youthful face.

"Where are your loyalties, Stelltor? What makes you tick?"

Stelltor sprang from the desk into attention, clicking his boot heels together.

"Oh get out," Thrand grunted. "If you actually manage to find out anything about the Temrin bitch let me know will you."

Rory smiled as he closed the door behind him.

"I could choke you on information and you'd be none the wiser," he murmured to himself. Across the hallway he saw Caitlin, one of the diplomatic staff and an occasional recipient of his favours. Grinding the cigar beneath his boot heel he sauntered toward her whistling a jaunty tune and preparing to produce a handful of rose petals from a concealed palm.

OOC I'm enjoying this! Do you guys (Elvarin/Former Modorians) know each other or is this just being made up as it goes along??

IC Sir Henry Gottland returned from the diplomatic banquet in the small hours of the morning, on the wrong side of a case or two of wine. There were traces of dark lipstick on his neck and collar. "Thankfully the little lady's safe at home in Hendinia" chortled Sir Henry as he staggered into his chambers.
He was not alone.
Jack Stryker coughed politely to let his boss know that he was there, and stepped out of the shadows. "Ready for my report Sir Henry?"

Sir Henry rolled his eyes. He'd been hoping for his bed. "Absolutely Mr Stryker," he said though, business having to come first.
"This place is chaotic." JAck said. "Lots of unofficial local factions and powerbases ranging from tiny little gangs of thugs up to webs of spies and mercenaries. Some of them independent, some of them anti-the Former Modorians, some of them seemingly working for them. I think there are quite a few secret police types - people seem scared to criticise the FMs just in case. Oh and there's some sort of military activity going on in the Eldreshka forest nearby. Dundaine troops bombing the hell out of the place."
"Why?" Gottland queried.
"No one seems to know. The FMs have launched a rather hypocritical internation protest about that, but aren't doing anything to stop it. I suppose it suits their ends too."
"Crazy mixed up town."
"How did the party go, Sir Henry?"
"Oh, the usual. Lots of pointless talking. A little bit of drink."
"Wine, women and song Sir Henry."
"You know me, Mr Stryker," said Gottland. "I can't sing to save my life."

OOC: made up along the way, and we are having another rp as well, which is being tied to this one. Very skilled person this, I am impressed RPing with him.

OOC :oops: I would like to say that it's mutual! "The Elvarin" has a real knack for taking hints and allusions and helping to build on them rather than simply ignore or exploit them. >>Group Hug<<

Loft went toward the eastern part of the city. Watching careful, as he wandered past all the riffraff heading on to his actual mission. Finally he came upon a wondrous temple. The ancient stone facing rising toward the sun and sky, seeming to state the glory of these people. Arriving, he saw what seemed to be an old bag lady. This he was told was his contact.

He went up to her and laid a small pile of Iron Crowns in front of her.

OOC :oops: I would like to say that it's mutual! "The Elvarin" has a real knack for taking hints and allusions and helping to build on them rather than simply ignore or exploit them. >>Group Hug<<

OOC: i feel soo left out lol

IC: Romanov: All Forces Meet .5 clicks from enemy base.

Before they could get to the enemy base romanov's squad had entered a camp with many dead guerrillas, whoever was here had left a few hours ago.

Romanov(on radio):Echo have you been to where alpha is right now?

Echo: No Sir!

Romanov: Roger

the tank shells must have hit them thought romanov as he shrugged it off.

Romanov: Lets move out!!!

OOC: Don't feel left out Dundaine baby, your military assault on the forest is forming a fairly major plot thread at the moment - everyone in town seems to be anxious about that at the moment - there's just less chance of interaction between the other characters & yours since yours are so busy doing their own thang. Anyway, back to the plot...

IC:

The bag lady squinted at Loft, down at the bag of money, then back up at Loft again. Her face was grimy, her fingernails long and tattered, her clothes little more than rags.

"What makes ye think I wants yer money, dearie?" she croaked. As Loft began to respond she interrupted him. "Ye've come to Ole Missy for help, for knowledge? Ye can't put a price on wisdom, dearie, that I can tell ye."

She pushed the bag of Iron Crowns back toward the haunted man and looked him straight in the eyes. Her gaze was steadfast and piercing, and Loft felt she had opened his soul to her gaze.

"Ye've travelled a long way, and ye're bearing a great burden. One ye feel ye'll never be rid of. A great hurt has been done to ye, and ye've been pained wi' it so long ye cannot imagine being rid of it. The hurt has become ye, and there isn't much left of yer but that hurt. Why do ye think Old Missy can help yer? What do ye want of me?"

She maintained the gaze, and fell silent, waiting for Loft's response.

OOC:I Want to join in the thread

"TO THE CITY OFFICIALS" Lt Gregor: "Good People Of Kadursk, My name is Alex Gregor, my people and I hail from The Rouge Nation of The Iron Wallouby. We are a militaristic nation of peacekeepers(....what is so funny?,) in the area of former Siberia. We are a Platoon of marines on an exploration conquest. We heard gunfire in the wilderness and drew conclusions of guerrilla warfare. Efforts have begun to errect and fortify camp. we will remain here until these petty skirmishs have been quelled and it is safe to pass through. Brg General, Vasily Zaetsev has sent myself and the five men who accompany me to alert the town of our presence and of our good intentions, the scare from the guerillas has temporarily broken our supply lines, we need food and water for 100 men if you are able to help send word to my leader. Thank You."

OOC: Welcome to the thread Iron Wallouby! I hope you enjoy your visit to Kadursk.

IC:

Lt Gregor has probably been directed to the head of security in Kadursk, the delightful Captain Thrand after posting in the town forum. He will have been taken to Thrand in the secure little bunker overlooking the market district.

While Gregor's men are given food and drink, Gregor and Thrand can discuss the operation:

Thrand settles himself in the over-large leather chair behind his desk and looks at the newcomer.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Lieutenant, always a delight to meet a military man who knows how to show respect where it is due. And yes, you're quite right, there has been some terrible outbreak of hostility right here on the edge of the Former Mordorian protectorate.

Terrorist guerrilla forces in the Eldreshka forest have been plaguing trade routes for months, and now these paramilitary lunatics have started bombing, shelling and burning. Well, it's hard to tell what's going on.

So, by all means lead your marines to glorious victory! It's safe to assume that any armed forces you may encounter in the region of the forest are hostiles. I personally authorise you to use whatever force is necessary to pacify the region. I shall have supplies prepared at once for your troops, simply give me the location of their camp and I will have it airlifted in. And I shall pass your message on to your superiors personally."

Thrand smiles and steeples his fingers.

"Welcome to our land, Lieutenant."

Lerathin wasnt arrested yet so he knew that he was let off for a while. He was also curious as to the state of the forest battles but he was more curious about this strange foe on the other side of the 'wall'. But he desperately needed information to help out his friend, Lionel, who was probably fighting for his life right now and Lerathin felt helpless unless he could find someway to help him.

Its time i go and see max at this cody's bar, Lerathin mused, I must see Liz again, and deep within, he knew it was also for all the wrong reasons.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Max grumbled to himself as he brushed the remains of last night's debris from the floor. For all its busy popularity, Cody's bar was remarkably free from trouble - at least from the patrons.

But last night there had been no less than four seperate "raids" by the Former Mordorian troopers, storming in and overturning tables, kicking in barrels and the like. "Looking for terrorists," they claimed as though a terrorist was likely to be hiding in a barrel of grog. No, they were stamping their authority on the town at the moment. He'd heard from Link that there were foreign troops from at least two nations mixed up in some engagement in Eldreshka, and the FM troopers were likely just showing they were still around to keep people in line.

Whatever the motive, they left a damned mess behind them.

Max swept up a final handful of broken wood splinters and stood to survey the bar room. Adequate.

"Look on my works, ye mighty, and despair." He quoted as he emptied the dustpan into a bin.

So far the place was empty, it was still early, and no one had been in since Liz's brief message had been delivered by Link the night before: "Hope is not dead."

"Heh," Max had snorted to himself, "but 'hope' may need some intensive care if it's ever to walk again."

He positioned himself behind his bar, reaching underneath to stow the brush and pan. His fingers brushed the oilcloth wrapping on his family blade and he paused for a second, eyes over full of memories.

The bell over the bar door jangled.

Lerathin walked into the bar, his face concealed in the hood of his camo cloak as he peered left and right, alert elven eyes searching for danger. Bells jangled over the door and he gave a hidden smile at the usefulness of such devices. Humans were always innovative, he thought quietly to himself, Now to meet this Max

Stroding up to the bar, Lerathin noticed that the place was hastily cleaned up and seemed to be in various state of damage. He noted the human behind the bar, and keeping his face concealed, lerathin asked while trying desperately to conceal the musical tune of his voice, "I seek Max. I was told that he could help me find a friend of mine". Lerathin kept a hand close to his sword and hoped he wont have to use it this night.

"I seek Liz".

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

The Aelosian Duchess was glad to land finally. She never liker the diplomatic stellar shuttles of the Aelosian Navy. Flying was one thing, and travelling through empty space for hours was different, more...boring.

She was sent by the Heir of the Everqueen, the Princess D'Hyru, to find about evidence of elven terrorist attacks in the Mordorian country. The mission was delicate, as the newfound friendship of the Elvarin country with the Sacred Empire of Aelosia was at the stake. The formation of AURE, the elven alliance, the dream of the Princess D'Hyru, was pending on countries like the Elvarin.

"Only two guards and my hair dresser, this is a ridiculous escort", she said to the man dressed in long blue robes who came after her.

"You're escorted by one of the best courtiers of the Paelisi House, Duchess. Don't worry, nothing awful is going to happen", said the man, a mature elf with silver hair and an everlasting smile on his lisps.

"You left your humility on the homeland, did you?. One of the best courtiers of the Paelisi House", said the Duchess mocking the voice of the old elf.

The other elf just took a deep breath and waited. "I'm wondering if they have some kind of welcome comitee".

As he spoke, the plane left, leaving the five figures in the plain...

OOC: Warm welcome Aelosians! Enjoy your stay in Kadursk and please forgive my IC rantings earlier.

IC:

The city of Kadursk was hardly a welcoming site to the refined eyes of the new visitors. Ancient stone buildings in various states of disrepair huddled together as though to protect themselves from modern prefabricated monstrosities of steel and plastic. The smell from the river spoke of pollution and neglect, and the people...

...were a mixed bunch.

The first impressions received of the people were of a cosmopolitan group of a variety of races and nationalities. The only consistent factor, a look of lean desperation in the eyes, and a hunger for something more than simply food and security. They looked haunted.

There seemed to be no official welcoming party for the diplomatic party, though in the middle distance near the landing strip a party of burly soldiers in crude looking kevlar armour stamped around being self important and roughly searching a young woman who was trying to shield a crying infant from their attention.

"Welcome to the city of Kadursk," said a quiet voice nearby, the speaker was a tall oriental man in a formal three piece suit that (while it had seen better days) looked out of place in this raggedy town. "It's sometimes best to keep a low profile especially when- " he broke off and glanced away, toward a flash looking open topped car that was approaching the airfield. "It looks like they've sent Count Stelltor to meet you. Don't trust a word that man says. My name's Link. We'll meet later."

The tall man slipped away with surprising stealth as the roadster approached.

Max looked blandly at the newcomer, his face a mask.

"Never heard the name." he said automatically. Then - something in the light caught his attention and he peered closer at the visitor. "I.. I'm Max. Sorry m'lord I didn't realise..."

He caught himself and took a deep breath.

"Liz comes and goes, sir." Max continued. "I can tell her you asked after her... I assumes she'll know you?"

Lerathin hoped that the human wont notice his smile and replied, "We had an....interesting night together. It will be safer if we meet at a place of her own choosing and tell her that all was not forgotten, and those that have, will return again. She will know what I mean. I must leave now for one of my selves arent meant to be here but tell her to be very careful. It seems that this government has taken a harmful view towards my nation and escpecially myself".

And as he turned to leave, still with his voice hopefully believeably disguised, Lerathin said, "I will return tomorrow to hear of your reply", and walked out of the door.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin of foreign affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"That was strange", said the Duchess to her escorts.

"I didn't sensed evil in that man, anyway, Should we believe him?", answered the old diplomat, looking at the grey surroundings.

"First let us hear what the goverment has to say about it", said the elven girl, "I didn't came here to believe what the first man told me, I need to be objetive, do you know?"

One of the guards of the Duchess approached the bunch of soldiers, placing him between them and the lady shielding the child. "Hey, what's happening?. You're many and she's alone and unarmed. I don't want to mess in your affairs, but...", said the soldier raising his hand.

"And that smells like trouble", said the diplomat, "Can you order the soldier of please let them alone?".

"I don't want to, he's right, she's alone and unharmed. Something is rotten in this country, I smell it on the air, let's find out what is happening here. Nobody abuses a woman in the presence of an Aelosian Duchess", said the girl, with a regal look full of authority.

As the visitor left, Max stood immobile, as though he feared movement would wake him from a pleasant dream.

"Oh Elizabeth, I pray you know what you are doing." he whispered into the air, "What times are these? When legend takes on flesh, the stuff of song clothes itself in skin and bone?"

He slowly turned to look around the dingy bar, at the aged plaster, the dull woodwork and the gaudily painted advertising posters peeling from the wall. The smell of stale beer, and freshly scrubbed tables. He looked down at himself, old and portly in faded, worn clothes. A lowlife bartender in a lowlife city. "As it is, so it has always been." he murmured.

He reached, almost unwillingly beneath the bar and removed the oilcloth wrapped package, flipping back the bindings as he placed it on the veneer topped bar. With tender care he gripped the hilt of the blade within and drew it forth, a line of blue-silvered steel intricately carved with cursive letters.

Maximillian DiTharmos, Castellan of Temrin, Keeper of Five Keys, heard the first of his rowdy customers staggering up the street toward his new citadel and hastily replaced the blade in its hiding place.

The armoured soldier stepped a half pace back from the elven guardsman, almost in disbelief.

"Keep yer nose out!" the sergeant roared, "We hunting terrorist! We hunting spies!"

"I'm no spy, sir," quavered the woman, clutching the child to her

The armoured warrior drew back a gauntleted fist to strike the elf protecting her. The Duchess could sense the instant response of her remaining guards about to be unleashed, but before action could be taken, the thuglike soldier was hurled backward, landing flat on the floor, a wisp of grey smoke curling from a neat hole in his temple.

Not even the sound of a shot.

"Good morning to you, your grace," came a cheery voice. Leaning on the polished red wing of his roadster was a slim, attractive young man in a military tunic, a sabre at his right hip. In his left hand a sleek silver pistol with an ornate silencer attachment. The newcomer waved his hand at the cowering troopers who fled, leaving the body of their sergeant behind.

The young woman whose plight had triggered this incident also took her opportunity and ran into the city.

"Name's Stelltor," said the newcomer. "Rorand Stelltor. Count Rorand Stelltor if ceremony's to be stood on which I suppose it should."

He holstered his pistol and advanced smiling on the Aelosian delegation.

"If you'd care to follow me to the residence that's been prepared for you, I'll attend to your every needs. Warm welcome and so forth. 'A star shines on the hour' etcetera etcetera." He looked intently at the Duchess. "You're really quite staggeringly beautiful," he went on. "Forgive me for saying so, but 'Duchess' always suggests corpulence and an unfortunate taste in hair. But not in this case. Do call me Rory by the way, all my friends do."

Rory leaned conspiratorially closer.

"And I don't have any living enemies."

(it was his favourite line)

Romanov(ON RADIO): Tank crews we are in the area, I will give you leave for 3 days go get drunk for all i care just dont get into truble i dont need that jackass thrand on me anymore.

Tankers: Roger!

Romanov: All squads prepare to move into the base!

Radios:Roger!

As the soldiers entered the enemy base immediatly they were forced to open fire.There were tons of guerrillas everywere. As the guerrillas fought back the dundaine soldiers took evasive manuvers, many guerrillas fell.

Soldier: Man Down Man Down!!!

"Now that's a gentleman, very pleased to meet you, young man, I am..." started the old diplomat, before being interrumpted by the Duchess. "A servant of mine, of course, they never know when they should stay quiet. Although I have never seen a Duchess corpulent and with a bad taste in hair dressing, of course I accept your compliment", she extended her hand to the Count so he could kiss it, smiling as she spoke again "That was so heroic, of course a man like you couldn't have enemies".

As the Duchess spoke, the guard who was trying to help the woman just kicked a can and returned to his place, muumbling something about "the easy heroism" and the "easy noble girls".

OOC: LoL! Welcome to the thread, I think Stelltor may have met his match for once...

"The residence isn't far away, your grace." Rory went on as he strolled with the Duchess as though oblivious to the rest of her party. "And since the weather is so fine I hope you don't mind the walk? Splendid. I assume this is your first time in Kadursk (really it's quite obvious, people don't ever come back a second time once they've managed to get away, ha ha).

"Only the finest of the old mansions for our Aelosian friends, naturally. Some of the furnishings may be in need of a little repair, but basically the place is quite magnificent. Although I must say... it will seem very drab indeed compared to its newest occupant.

"Do pardon me," he went on with an air of self mockery, "My tongue is running away with me again. It will be the death of me one day."

The party strolled through the wide paved streets of this more advanced area of Kadursk toward a frankly magnificent old building that was apparently to be the ambassadorial residence.

"You'll probably have an audience with the esteemed Captain Thrand later on, he's pretty much in charge of security here in Kadursk, but if in the meantime you need civilised companionship and conversation you can always call me. My card." Count Stelltor handed over an elegant calling card embossed with a complex family crest.

"I can't actually set foot on what is now technically Aelosian territory," Rory finished as the party arrived at the gate. "But we can always chat out here by the honeysuckle if there's anything you need to know. Your grace."

I am poleased to see that my units are welcome in your area and that peace can be attained, life is always easiest when everyone aggreees. it seems that in these troubled times the pillars of right and wrong are crushed into a single grey mass. The location of my camp is unreachable by road, air, and trail. the men and women of the iron wallouby are excellent at hiding and tend to only turn up when we want to be seen. we are of a nomadic people that has held it blood lines for over 100 years. after the fall of previous government we were able to make our city, the "invisible city" of Lodos, its own government. it is called the invisible city because it is mostly subterrainian. it is quite cold in siberia and we must remain warm. because of our infantile population and military the city is built in such a manner that it cannot be seen by the naked eye. "let our armies be the rocks, the trees, and the birds of the air." is our armiess motto, in its infantile and early stages. therefore i will send my men in small squads of ten to 20, preferably to a place of minimal spectacle. under the cover of darkness to pick up the supplys and hump them back. i am not quite ready to draw a whole lot of attention to ourselves, i am sure you understand. if you wish i can arrange a guide and a small escort to bring you to my camp and show you a little wallouby hospitality. i appoligise for any inconvienance.

Thank You,
Brigadeer General Vasily Zaitzev.

OOC: HEY MORDORIAN, I AM NEW TO THIS RP CAMPAIGN, MY LITTLE BORTHER DUNDAINE GOT ME INTO IT. IF YOU COULD E-MAIL ME A LITTLE BACKSTORY OF WHAT ALL IS GOING ON I WOULD BE MUCH OBLIGED. YOU CAN HIT ME AT JEDIDUCK4196@YAHOO.COM

The supplies you want are prepared and will be transported to you as you have suggested. We wish you luck in combatting the evil insurgents in the Eldreshka forest and warn you to be on guard against treachery and deception. We suspect the presence of elven terrorists active in the area, so be particularly vigilant for signs of their presence.

Thrand

OOC: Hope you enjoy the thread... as to the backstory all that exists is here in the thread! Have fun finding things out (like I'm doing!)

"Oh, please stay, I invite to have a little chat with me. Please tell me. Are you some kind of officer of the Kadursk military or just an idle noble?", said Duchess, offering her arm to Rory, inviting him to have a little walk in the garden of the House.

"Blablabla, all courtiers girls are the same. They fall in love with the first human they see, what that human have that we don't?", mumbled a guard, almost to himself.

"Shut up, that's not your problem. We're here to find proofs of the elven attacks on this country", said the old diplomat, trying to maintain an emotionless face.

"And what about that evidence?, Do you think that human Count has it?", said the guard in an ironic tone, visibly upset.

"Oh Kadursk doesn't have a military," laughed Rory charmingly as they strolled. "It's just the civic equivalent of an old bag-lady hanging around by the inn door. Mind you I'm not Mordorian either... Noble, well I like to think so. Old family, d'ye see. As to 'idle' - well you'd have to ask my valet."

"Don't suppose you'd ever get to meet him though," Rory went on, "he spends most of his time cleaning in my chambers."

The gardens were magnificent, a total contrast to the decay outside the walls of the embassy building. Rory heaved a sigh.

"Look I'll be honest, I was told to find out what you were like. We've had a lot of problems with... troublemakers of your race and I think people are worried that there's more trouble coming. I can tell you're not like that..." he paused, "...and even if you were, well I think I could be discreet. You haven't come here for anything... horrid have you?"

He turned his flawless blue eyes on the Duchess, questioningly.

Good friend and ally thank you for your aid. camp is nearly set and perimeter defenses are operational. considering that all is squared away with my men i would like to personally visit the city, as i have not seen it yet. i plan to arrive at 0100 hours at the eastern gate. i have left lt. Gregor in charge and plan to spend a week. perhaps you and i could maybe have a discussion on our plans to snuff out and quell these petty terrorist skirmishes...
Thank You,
Brg Gen Vasily Zaitsev

As the wounded soldier was brought to Romanov he instantly relized who it was. It was the Sgt who had started this little adventure with him.

Romanov: MEDIC!!!

As the camp was wiped out. The soldiers found a pit.

Romanov: Lets go throw some nades down there!

Soldier: Yes Sir!

Romanov: Fill in this hole with dirt suffocate the bastards, i want them to die nice and slow.

After the hole is filled in Romanov orders his men back to the city.

Radioman: Tank corps do you read objective completed objective completed!

Tankers: Roger

Radioman: Call in some napalm on our position in 2 hours

Tankers: ETR?

Radioman 2 hours 30 minutes!

Tankers: Roger

Radioman: You are still on leave.

Tanker: Roger

As Viktor Romanov walks out of cody's bar he sees what looks like a well decorated military officer with insignias not fimiliar to the dundaine military of the Kadursk Security.

"Oh Kadursk doesn't have a military," laughed Rory charmingly as they strolled. "It's just the civic equivalent of an old bag-lady hanging around by the inn door. Mind you I'm not Mordorian either... Noble, well I like to think so. Old family, d'ye see. As to 'idle' - well you'd have to ask my valet."

"Don't suppose you'd ever get to meet him though," Rory went on, "he spends most of his time cleaning in my chambers."

The gardens were magnificent, a total contrast to the decay outside the walls of the embassy building. Rory heaved a sigh.

"Look I'll be honest, I was told to find out what you were like. We've had a lot of problems with... troublemakers of your race and I think people are worried that there's more trouble coming. I can tell you're not like that..." he paused, "...and even if you were, well I think I could be discreet. You haven't come here for anything... horrid have you?"

He turned his flawless blue eyes on the Duchess, questioningly.

"I'm here to find out if elves are committing terrorist acts on this country. That's my mission. And you're going to tell me everything you know about it", said the Duchess with a mischievous smile. "If you do, maybe you could find a surprise waiting for you, some kind of...reward. If you help me to resolve this affair quickly, we would have time to indulge in more....interesting activities".

Rory, if he was taken aback at all, did not let it show. Instead he inclined his head in a slight bow to acknowledge the lady's words.

"Your grace, you must appreciate that in this twilight world of diplomacy and intrigue it is often hard to talk of absolutes. I will be absolutely straightforward with you though - this talk of rewards - well..."

He looked the Duchess in the eye.

"I can think of no better reward than spending more time in your company listening to your beautiful voice. As to the tactical situation here, well I'm sorry to say that it does appear that there is a... problem with some of your kindred."

The Duchess's quizzical smile seemed calculated to draw a further contribution from Rory.

"Hang it all, your Grace, this puts me in a difficult position. I'm supposed to remain neutral in this sort of thing, just a messenger boy d'ye see? But there's this fellow, Lerathin, elvish chap. Turned up a little while ago and ... well all I can say with a clear conscience is that there's been an awful lot of trouble ever since. Two lots of foreign commandos tearing about in our woodland, aerial bombardments, and people turning up murdered in the city."

(a pause for thought. then he continues)

"Course, that last isn't really anything out of the ordinary."

Rory turned suddenly and grasped the Duchess' hands whispering with sudden intensity:

"You must hate me for speaking ill of your kinsman, but I can't lie to you. I'm sorry. I had better go before I make you hate me more."

Stifling any further words, Rory broke away and almost ran from the embassy grounds as though he was desperate to get away before emotion overcame him.

Reaching the safety of the outside wall he allowed the biggest grin he had ever indulged in to spread slowly across his face...

Good friend and ally thank you for your aid. camp is nearly set and perimeter defenses are operational. considering that all is squared away with my men i would like to personally visit the city, as i have not seen it yet. i plan to arrive at 0100 hours at the eastern gate. i have left lt. Gregor in charge and plan to spend a week. perhaps you and i could maybe have a discussion on our plans to snuff out and quell these petty terrorist skirmishes...
Thank You,
Brg Gen Vasily Zaitsev

Thrand put the telegram down and rubbed his pudgy hands together with glee.

"Things are going right for once Martetarn you horse faced fop." he cackled at the unfortunate steward.

"Indeed sir?"

"Indeed sir indeed." Thrand stood. "Look out my finest dress uniform and gather a squad- no make it two - of some of the more impressive UH Troopers. I'm going to be entertaining foreign troops who may just sort out two of our biggest problems at the same time."

Maretarn looked sceptical. Thrand's approach to strategic thinking was not legendary.

"Look Maretarn you oaf," Thrand went on, "they're going to help clean up the forest. They'll wipe out those annoying guerrilla forces that have been hiding out there and -- and there's just a chance that these independent witnesses will discover evidence of Elvish manipulation."

"Is there any evidence of that, sir?"

"There will be, Maretarn, there will be."

As Romanov walked into town it was a sweet sight to see after a few days in the forest.

Romanov soon walked into town and people stared at him as if they never saw him before. perhaps it was the paint on his face or maybe the blood on his clothses, or maybe even them carring the Sgt in on a make shift strethcer what ever it was it didnt bother him right now.

Romanov knew they needed to find a doctor for the Sgt. Romanov walked into cody's bar and called for Viktor and his tank corps.

Romanov: Lets go!

Tankers: Ok ok ok.

Radioman: napalm drop complete sir.

VZ: Gregor i will be gone for a week and i am leaving you in charge, chiefly because i trust you. all you really have to do is keep the snipers rested and alert. manage the shifts and patrol the perimeters. continue to run silent. no sound is to be made above ground and no lights nto be turned on. i am not quite ready to show up. let us allow the rumor mill to fuel the area and may its billows reach the dark hearts of our hethan devil guerillas. id prefer them scared with nowhere to look, then angry and gunning for us. i want scout squads to explor the area and i want a through map drawn out before i return. it is 1900 i have much too arrange. Are there any questions?

AG: yes sir, what if the guerillas manage to stumble upon our base?

VZ: Lets play things passive, let them walk right over us. unless ofcourse they see something. the snipers are covering from most angles and no trial comes through here so you should be able to handle anything. if things get too hairy send for m immediate return.

AG: Ay Sir, Spaciba
Vz Pozgalsta, Dasvidania
AG: Dasvidania

A good nights sleep is all that I needed thought Romanov.

The sgt had reported good from the medic. Romanov thought he would go tell thrand that he had finished his job in the forest.

OOC: I cant think of anything else!!!

VZ: Alpha Squad, i want you to assemble and accompany me into the city, you may leave for camp after i am within the city. Bravo Squad, i want you to change back into your civies and head for the city now, you have spent the last few days in the city getting to know it. i want you to keep and eye on things in the city and be ready to get my back at any given moment. gentleman, be ready for anything. this city isnt the safest in the world, or the most honest... Alpha, you know how we roll, quiet and with no trail, nightvision is one of the few ifts god has given our people. it is a two hour drive to the city, bu our roads, so lets go.

((Wow, Former Mordorians, your writing is very impressive. This thread seems deserving. :wink: Oh, and hi, Ael. :D ))

Rukyzai looked at the swirling purplish-black portal in front of him, an anxious anticipation rising inside him. The warp always sent chills through him. He set one foot tentativily inside it, like someone would test bath water. He closed his eyes and walked through, the sensation of flight washing over him. As quick as it had come it dissipated, and he stood in an alley somewhere in a borderland city. Kadursk, he had been told it was called, and that was all he knew about the place. Shrugging, the phantom stepped out of the alleyway into the light.

'Well what do you know, the portal didn't send me to Saturn this time.' He thought with vauge satisfaction.

'Keep focused, phatagi.' A voice whispered in his mind.

Rukyzai shuddered at the sound, but nodded. He had to listen to the Guides. There was the bar, just as he had been told. The phantom braced himself and walked through the door like a ghost, curls of black smoke following him. The phantom looked up at the bartender with cyan eyes that burned brightly, seeming to float detached from his featureless face. He waited for the man's reaction.

OOC:test score it works again!!!

As Romanov Reached Thrands office he knocked on the door. Suprisingly a young woman answered the door.

Romanov: Is Thrand here?

Woman: Yes hold on

Romanov steped into the nicely lit room and looked around on the side table was a small arm, he decided to pick it up and hide it.

Thrand: How may I.... Oh its you what could you possibly want?

Romanov: Well being that you seem to be the man in charge around here i just wanted to tell you that we are done with the guerrillas we killed the ones that attacked us. The rest are your problem. Maybe you can get that visiting general to help you out.

OOC: SOMEONE FUCKING POST!!!

OOC: Even sinister dictatorial countries need sleep sometimes... I should have a longer session online later... thanks Dundaine & IronW's for keeping things going during my slumber. In the meantime:

IC: To say Thrand became anxious at the presence of the military man was an understatement. Not only because of their history over the past couple of days but also because so much hinged on their continuing activity in the Eldreshka forest.

"Done with the guerrilla troops?" Thrand blustered a little, "So soon? How is that possible? We believe that further nests of the traitors exist deep within the woods."

Romanov repeated that they were done.

"IMPOSSIBLE!" gasped the pudgy police chief. "Where's the Dundaine spirit eh? Never say die. Just because those tricky little guerrillas have dug in, there's no reason to think you've got 'em all! Keep searching man, finish the job.... you'll be handsomely rewarded by my Masters."

Max stared at the spectral newcomer, transfixed. His thoughts raced while his body froze.

"What the hell is this thing? One of THEM? No I'd be dead already. What the hell is this thing?"

Two instincts fought within him.
-Grab the sword and defend yourself
-Be true to your calling

The latter won out.

"What will it be, sir?" Max stammered. Inwardly he thought: "Elizabeth, stay away tonight."

Thrand frowned as Romanov left.

"Caitlin," he bellowed, and the young woman from the diplomatic corps stepped smartly into his office.

"I'm not sure the Dundainians will be active in the Eldreshka forest for much longer, they seem to have accomplished their main aims."

"And the Walloubys?" she asked.

"Who knows. They're too damn good at covert warfare and we're finding it impossible to track them. Has the... collateral... been delivered to the forest?"

"It's underway now, Captain Thrand." she replied, leaning forward to adjust the red sash on his dress uniform. "That's better."

"Hmph," he responded, mildly irritated by her fussing over him as if he were unable to dress himself properly, but enjoying the chance of peering down her blouse. "Let me know when they've been delivered."

"I will sir," Caitlin responded. "Anything else?"

"No. Oh, yes. Pass me my ceremonial pistol will you. It's on the valet stand."

She looked on the stand. "It's not here sir."

"It must be! Let me see! Oh for f-" he scrabbled around on his desk for a little while, getting more irate. "That was a present!" he bawled. "Where's it gone?"

Caitlin had already left the room, rolling her eyes as she closed the door behind herself.

When Lerathin returned to his residence, he dropped his cloak to the floor of his room and sat down at a desk tired. Massaging his forehead in quiet contemplation of the night's foray, he suddenly sat bolt upright as he sensed something within proximity of the city.

An elf!, Lerathin thought in amazement, for old blood calls to old blood, and he stood up and headed to the door, strapping his sword back on and wishing that he had also been allowed to bring his pulse pistol.

Oh well, no use complaining now. I must seek these others!, he was shocked to discover that there were more elves as well, far more than he expected to have been in this emperor forsaken land.

What is going on?, Lerathin wondered, I do hope this wont interfere with my duties and my meeting with Liz. For I would be most annoyed

And Lerathin knew that it was about the latter he was thinking about.

Moving with grace and speed, he headed towards the general area from where his blood sings, and in mile devouring run's, he approached what seem to be a field and there they were, elven guards and what seemed to be an elven female.

He realised instantly that this was the Aelosian delegation, and walked towards them calmly, his mind clear as crystal as to why they are here. They seek a wrongness in me that dont exist, Lerathin thought indignantly, but what must be done, must be done

He approached the regally dressed elven woman and said, "Greetings and good fortune upon you my cousins. I am Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs, Of The House Of Tel Shavas, Of The Elvarin Empire. I see that you are here to seek truth are you not?", he enquired quizzily.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Liz kept her head down as she emerged from the tiny brick lined culvert on the very riverfront of Kadursk. Link had left the package where he had promised - ammunition, medical supplies. The usual - behind a loose brick in the old drainage system.

The light was bad down here - dim anyway this close to the Former Mordorian protectorate - and the streets close packed together. Her instincts nagged at her. Something big and bad was brewing, something... something worse than usual. Stelltor was involved (as always), and those commandos that had wreaked such havoc at the diplomatic banquet. And Lerathin. His presence here must be significant. He --

A sudden movement caught her attention, fast, white, upward movement. She tensed, her fingers reaching for the pistol beneath her combat jacket. And relaxed. A gull, nothing more. She watched as its wings flapped lazily once, twice, and then it began to circle upward.

Without warning pain erupted in her head! An unexpected blow caught her on the cheek and knocked her to the ground. Her eyes blurred from the impact, unable to see her attacker, Liz relied on long held instincts and snapped her legs out in a sweep, making contact and hearing the impact of a body hitting the ground.

Another attacker, and a heavy boot kicked the wind out of her. Fighting the pain (and cursing herself for being distracted) she rose with as much strength as she could muster driving her shoulder beneath the jaw of the man who had kicked her, breaking his teeth and leaving him rolling on the ground. A quick glance at him was all she could risk - unkempt hair, tattooes, tattered leather jerkin. A river-rat, one of Kresk's probably. The other attacker, the man whose legs she had swept was back on his feet now, warily, low stance, a pair of curved knives sweeping back and forth before him as he advanced on her.

"Your life is near spent," she hissed at the brigand, "if you stand against me you waste what is left."

"Stick your words!" snarled the ruffian, still circling. Liz maintained the distance between them, hands out ready to block and strike, not daring to reach for her pistol.

--

Kresk watched the scuffle from a short distance away, leering around the corner of the alleyway.

"Oh mercy me, what a fine specimen. What fine fun she may provide us." He chortled with glee as he sighted on the back of Liz's neck. "Let's see if our new little toy is a fine little toy."

He squeezed the trigger and a small but potent jet of compressed air was released sending a fletched steel dart flying without error into the exposed skin above Liz's reinforced jacket collar.

--

She felt the sting and then her knees seemed to turn to water and she fell. Her arms refused to move. She would have cried out in anger and frustration but her lips refused to yield to her will. Kresk's mud spattered river boots turned her over and he looked down at her with mocking concern.

"Did ye hurt your head m'lady. Such a pity it is."

He reached down and his oily fingers fumbled at her blouse - removing with a jerk the delicately made pendant worn around her neck. He pocketed that with a look of triumph.

"A lesson for you, fine lady, Kresk is not to be trifled with. Of course, ye'll not have a chance to pass that wisdom on."

He turned away from her. While he would have liked to have stayed to amuse himself he had a sizeable reward to collect from his paymaster in exchange for the little bauble he had... liberated.

Liz's fingers and toes began to tingle as she saw the first two combatants advancing toward her.

"Who dies first?" she thought to herself as the sensation began to return to her limbs.

Lerathin jerked slightly and turned away from the elven woman in suprise as he felt something happening, something wrong. His body screamed for him to move to aid something....someone. But he knew he cannot leave this delegation, so he turned back reluctantly to listen to her reply.

I just hoped it wasnt anything serious, Lerathin thought worriedly. Please let it not be Liz

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Kresk covered the distance to his rendezvous in a crouching run. No one would mess with him, his reputation as a psychopathic brigand would ensure that, but part of his mania was a streak of paranoia that had given him a reputation for second sight.

The building was an unremarkable one - an old stone townhouse in a row of ruins, now built over with a maze of scaffolding and rusting cables, like bad dental work. The area was shunned by the locals, their superstition accurate for once.

Looking around to make sure he was unobserved Kresk skulked across the open ground to the rear door of the house, wreathed in deep shadow. There behind the house he saw a limousine, long, deep black with opaque windows. It exuded an impression of menace rather than luxury though and Kresk cursed under his breath as he saw it.

"Not part of the deal, not part of the deal my fine lad." he whispered. But he dare not turn back now. He pushed open the rotting door and stepped into the deeper darkness beyond.

~~you have been successful in your task~~

Kresk was unsure whether the words were carried in a breathy whisper or spoken directly into his mind. His reply was spoken.

"Yes, dread one, yes my kind lord, success to be reported." He cringed, feeling like the scrutiny of an army of his betters was upon him.

~~place the thing on the shelf and depart~~

He fumbled the pendant from his pocket, holding it up by the chain. For a second, light (from where?) reflected from its faceted surface and lit the corners of the room. Kresk fell back in terror as a midnight form loomed over him and snatched the pendant away, enclosing its light in a terrible (armoured?) gauntlet.

~~GET OUT~~

"My generous master! My reward?"

~~GET OUT~~

Kresk abandoned his avarice and almost fell in his haste to flee that room of nightmares.

"So you're the rogue elf, the vagabond that Rory told me about. The local authorities told me to stay away from you. Guards!", the Duchess shouted, and an instant later the two aelosian soldiers, dressed in their full exosqueleton armor were pointing their fusion rifles at Lerathin...

"Move an inch and I'll blow your head off!", said the first one.

"But he's an elf, why are we aiming at him?", asked the second one, with a voice looking confused.

"Shut up, and you, stranger. Stay away of the Duchess and raise your hands over your head" the first one continued, his attitude a serious one.

"Now I have the responsible for the terrorist actions, for sure Rory will reward me!", said the Duchess smiling.

"Foolish girls...one guy in fancy clothes appears and they..." started to mumble one of the guards.

OOC: Poor old Lerathin! I look forward to seeing how *that* develops!

IC: Rory stepped from the steaming shower spray and stretched, feeling the tension of the day's exertions melting away. He paced across the expensively tiled floor of his bathroom and into his bedchamber.

The young woman (Davena something? Dolores? Started with a 'D' anyway he was almost certain of that) was still lying slumbering face down on the four poster. Rory decided with some satisfaction that she would sleep with a smile on her face for some time.

His pleasant reminiscence was interrupted by the jangling ringing of the telephone on the stand near his dresser. He tutted loudly and answered it.

"This had better be damned important." he snapped.

"Oh? Can't I just want to talk to you?" purred Caitlin of the diplomatic corps. "Or are you too...busy for me now?"

"Never too busy for you m'dear." Rory let his smile travel down the phone. "What's the word?"

"The word my Lord, is that the transaction has taken place."

"Thrand's got his hands on it? Really?" Rory was impressed and surprised. Usually it took the piggy eyed little oaf twice as long as this just to admit failure. Success was something new.

"Not Thrand." Caitlin paused. "The Master sent a special envoy to collect it."

"Really?" Rory leaned against the dresser, springing suddenly upright due to an unexpected hairbrush, bristles upward. "Who?"

Caitlin told him, and the colour drained from his face. He hung up without another word. Struggling into his uniform in a rush he spotted the sleeve of his jacket underneath Denise's (?) sleeping form. Seizing it he yanked it free sending the hapless young woman flying off the bed in a flurry of arms, legs and other curves.

She emerged from a tangle of sheets looking tousled and confused.

"My lord Count?" she whimpered, but the door was already closing.

OOC: I hope you don't mind my joining this RP, if that is so, then I'll simply erase the post.

IC:

An odd-shaped figure moved across the rooftops of the city with inhuman speed and grace, leaping from rooftop to rooftop. The figure was the Argonian hunter Arakesh Quickclaw. The young hunter was dressed in homespun clothing, of a dusty brown hue. His broad chest was protected by a cuirass of netch leather, his neck wrapped in a travel-stained white scarf. Arakesh's clawed hands where protected by guantlets of the same matierial as the cuirass, and the right firmly grasped a katana.

For many days he had tracked a pair of vampires, but now they had eluded him, disappearing in the vastness of the city. As he ground to a halt, his left hand fingered the necklace of vampire fangs that he wore on the outside of his cuirass, four sets of fangs, for a total of sixteen. In the distance he heard gunshots...

'Softskins and their guns...'

The hunter sprang off in that direction, using his powerful legs and large, reptillian feet. There would be good hunting in this city, for war brought contracts for assassination, for Arakesh was a skilled hunter of men as well as vampires...

-Double Post-

After Romanov had left Thrands office he noticed that he was more nice then usual depending on if he was nice ever. Romanov then felt bad about what he was going to do. Perhaps he wasnt going to do it. All of the bugs still had to worked out but the reward would be massive. Perhaps he shall clear the forest. yes he will clear the forest of all guerrilla life.

Romanov knocks on Thrands door once again. Thrand answered this time.
Thrand we need to talk. said Romanov.

Thrand: Come in

Romanov then reached up and got the small pistol he found and handed it back to thrand.

Romanov: Thrand im gonna clear the forrest. Nothing will be there when i am done. I request your permission to bring in more soldiers and uhh maybe 144 Mechs from my fleet in orbit.

VZ : ok i want you three to hide in those bushes and you three over there in those shadows stay low and be ready for anything, Ivan, Igor, you stay with me. Shoulder sling those snipper rifles i was them to be visible, there ya go.

--0100--
The Opening gate echos through the silence on the early morning, a short pudgy man in a flashy uniform and an honor guard of about twenty emerged.

Thrand : well it is 0100 and he isnt here where the hell could he be? keep your eyes peeled gentlemen these vuys dont like roads, they could be coming from anywhere.....

VZ : Zdrazvitya, you must be Captain Thrand.

Thrand spins around to see the six foot three inch man in a dark uniform bearing little insignia, the two men to either side were roughly six feet in height and wearing battle dress uniforms, like no other. the camoflauge patterns blended in with almost anything and made the two men almost invisable, except for the shiny glint from the ported barrels of there sniper rifles. the rounds they carried were roughly thirteen inches long with a bullet about 4 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. intimidation was an understatment.

**Startled** Thrand: oh hello General, i am pleased to finally make your aquaintance, please follow me into the city...

VZ I look foreward to seeing your city and i hope my stay will be pleasent.

Ear shattering shots rang out just outside the clearing and two guerilla snipers fell from directly above the enterage, there heads were completly gone and after the fall they were indistinguishable. the two Marines who had scored the hits emerged from the shrubbery, barells still smoking. they saluted the general and carried off their quary.

VZ: It is quite alright gentleman the sound from a wallouby rilfle is very distinct, and when unsilenced can be heard for great distances. you can get up now there is no longer a threat. it does seem however that this party was not as private as we would have liked it to be.

Thrand : yes well let us move into the city, i will show you your quarters... come the roads are not safe at this time and those shots will draw attention.

The General pulls a small pistol from his pocket and fires three times, the two men at his side walk toward the edge of the clearing and after a brief rustling were no more.

VZ : what are we waiting for Captain we have much too see....

OOC: Wandering Argonians - welcome to Kadursk! Good luck on your hunt whatever it is that you seek. No doubt your path will cross that of other strange denizens of the city!

IC: EARLIER- in Thrand's Office:

Thrand pondered Romanov's sudden change of heart as he lightly caressed the ceremonial pistol that the strange Dundainian had returned.

With those militaristic myrmidons clearing the forest, the plan could not possibly fail. But he would have to inform his... superior.

Swallowing hard, and with a cold sweat breaking out across his pale skin, Thrand picked up the telephone.

"Caitlin... make me an appointment to see >gulp< him. At once."


IC: NOW - Thrand and the Iron Walloubys

Captain Thrand, now clad in his finest and ill fitting dress uniform, complete with sash, epaulletes and piping was feeling somewhat out of his depth.

He had been expecting to meet an honour guard of dignitaries that he could charm and manipulate - instead these battle hardened troopers with astonishing stealth techniques and combat reflexes.

His own UH Troopers, large burly men in cumbersome kevlar armour, carrying wide barrelled assault rifles were no more comfortable with this than Thrand was.

As the party entered the city, and Thrand began to lead them to their allocated residence, the UH Troopers brought up the rear muttering among themselves.

"Come and go like that - not happy, not safe. Elvish."
"Fu- Dung!" retorted another, "Look him. Not Elf. Man."
"Not happy."
"You never happy, you small frikened kitten."

"QUIET SLUGS!" barked the chief of the honour guard, and they fell silent. The nervous trooper warily scanning the streets and rooftops for any sign of the covert warriors. He caught a brief glimpse of what appeared to be a sword wielding reptilian creature wearing a white scarf...

"Nah," he muttered to himself, shook his head and marched on.

Well this is good the permission to drop his full forces was a relief for the recently battle hardened soldier.

Romanov: RADIOMAN!!!

Radioman: Yes Sir!

Romanov: Call the space fleet tell the to drop the legolas mechs in the city. Were gonna kill some people!

Radioman: AYE Sir!

Romanov: Ok now muster all the forces and tell them to meet in the city.

Soldier: Aye

Romanov: The seige of Kadursk has begun.

OOC: Drop the mechs in the city? Surely you mean in the forest? Or are you actually seeking to invade Kadursk? If so, please don't as this is a RP rather than a combat thread. If you do mean to just obliterate the rebels in the forest then forgive my misunderstanding and please continue with the blessings of the Protectorate.

OOC: My computer has overheating probelms so wont be on for a while. Dont think me dead :wink:

OOC Things move fast in this thread --- lets hope i can catch up!

IC:After delivering his report to Sir Henry, Jack Stryker caught six hours of welcome sleep before waking ready for the duties of his next day. As part of his official cover he was one of the drivers assigned to Sir Henry who wanted to see the city firsthand.

A nice limo had been provided by the Kadursk authorities, probably wired to the heavens, but it would do for official engagements, and Jack chauffered Sir Henry around the upmarket district near the diplomatic sector. As always, Sir Henry was making seemingly bland smalltalk about the local women.

"Fine stems on that filly Stryker." he would chortle. ('The roads here could easily be overlooked by snipers')

"Nicely shaped ankles sir." Stryker would agree. ('That building there is supposed to be empty, but the power cables look new')

"Good grief, Stryker! A figure like that is a hazard to aircraft!" ('Lots of military activity on this route')

"Reminds me very much of your good lady wife sir." ('And the soldiers seem pretty paranoid.')

"Mind your manners, Stryker." ('Mind your manners, Stryker')

"Sorry sir," ('grin')

The route took them past a newly opened embassy, where some sort of altercation was taking place in the grounds.

Arakesh sheathed his blade, lest the glimmering silver edge draw undue attention. he dropped down into the street, kicking off of buildings and flipping to slow his descent, landing in a crouch in an alley. Arakesh stuck to the shadows, unsure of how the locals would react to his presence.

Liz groaned as she returned to consciousness, the effects of the neurotoxin still making her queasy. The fight against the two river-rats had been the hardest of her life, fighting not only the two assailants, but also the lethal numbing caused by the poisoned dart.

Only years, long years, of training and hard experience had allowed her to triumph. The two brigands lay dead, but she was badly injured herself, bruised and lacerated in places. It was a wonder she had survived her brief faint.

Squinting up from the alley floor she was alarmed to see a strange figure leap from the rooftop next to her and land in a crouch not two feet away.

It was her first sight of Arakesh.

Lerathin stood there stunned and confused. This was no way one treats another elf. And especially a diplomat. Thats it!

"What am I being charged for?", Lerathin demanded, "You have no authority to arrest anyone in another sovreign nation for it is not within your jurisdiction. And as well, I cite the diplomatic immunity that is the right of all ambassadors who serve in their nation's interest in another land".

Looking indignant, Lerathin replied in subdued rage, "Has the elves of the Aelosian empire lost their honour or their minds when they decided to even arrest a diplomat? You have no charges against me, only it seems by your whim and hearsay that brought you to this. Even the Former Mordorians dont have a warrant for my arrest and you persume to arrest me? How is the count gonna reward you?"

So it is Count Stelltor that has brought this upon me. What is it that he will gain? I have done nothing of harm to him or anybody!

Gazing at the guards, he stated, "Go ahead! Lose your honour, and kill me now for I intend to leave this farce!! I do not intend to stay with you in any circumstances unless I receive an apology!"

"Until that time farewell", and with that he turned away and began to walk, his muscles tensed for action and his left hand strayed close to his sword.

I wish I had my pulse pistol. What are they going to do now?

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas


OOC: My comp has overheating problems so I will only reply irregularly.

"Wait!", a voice spoke from behind the Duchess. "I need to talk with you, wait for me, she doesn't know what is she talking about, she's just a kid, deceived by a smart man", said an old diplomat coming from inside the House. "I suppose you're the Elvarin diplomat, we can talk to each other", said the old man, bowing in the traditional elven salute.

OOC: Drop the mechs in the city? Surely you mean in the forest? Or are you actually seeking to invade Kadursk? If so, please don't as this is a RP rather than a combat thread. If you do mean to just obliterate the rebels in the forest then forgive my misunderstanding and please continue with the blessings of the Protectorate.

well mechs falling from space with have a rather akward landing in the forest so i meant that they are landing in city(more room) and then moving to the headquarter that we set up

((Wow, Former Mordorians, your writing is very impressive. This thread seems deserving. :wink: Oh, and hi, Ael. :D ))

Rukyzai looked at the swirling purplish-black portal in front of him, an anxious anticipation rising inside him. The warp always sent chills through him. He set one foot tentativily inside it, like someone would test bath water. He closed his eyes and walked through, the sensation of flight washing over him. As quick as it had come it dissipated, and he stood in an alley somewhere in a borderland city. Kadursk, he had been told it was called, and that was all he knew about the place. Shrugging, the phantom stepped out of the alleyway into the light.

'Well what do you know, the portal didn't send me to Saturn this time.' He thought with vauge satisfaction.

'Keep focused, phatagi.' A voice whispered in his mind.

Rukyzai shuddered at the sound, but nodded. He had to listen to the Guides. There was the bar, just as he had been told. The phantom braced himself and walked through the door like a ghost, curls of black smoke following him. The phantom looked up at the bartender with cyan eyes that burned brightly, seeming to float detached from his featureless face. He waited for the man's reaction.

((That was supposed to be from me! :oops: This is my phantom nation, not Cyberutopia. I hope I didn't confuse anyone! Also, I will be able to reply regularly now, but my schedule was messed up over the past few days.))

I don't need a drink, human. Rukyzai rasped with a wave of his hand. What I do need is information. I believe you know a certain Link who I wish to speak with. Do not try to decieve me, it is not wise to disobey that which you do not understand.

'Not bad, continue with the intimidation. If he gets insolent, remark about that most interesting sword under his bar. As a matter of fact...if you can, find out as much as you can about that sword.'

As the harsh voice of the Guide rippled through the phantom, Rukyzai held back the urge to shudder again. They were useful with their uncanny ability to percieve things the ground agent didn't, but the blantant intrusion into the mind was unsettling. Cabal phantoms were used to it, however. What did one expect when they lived in a land where thinking about the Grand One wrong for only a moment meant sudden death?

The quarters in which the general was staying were fit for a king, or maybe just a high end diplomat or burocrat. The maids were constantly checking back their workorders becasue the room was soo clean, even the pillow mints were left untouched. the shower was the only room that showed signs of use and even they were few and far between. The general was a very simple man, but very bright and very perceptive. by the third day he had made it a point to wave to the suveilance officers through the many cameras, as he walked from room to room, he did however, disconnect the one in the shower and bathroom. He left every morning at around 8, came back at 6, relaxed in the diplomats lounge until 11 when he retired. the other diplomats and dignitarys paid him no attention as he relaxed alone in the corner booth. as more drinks were passed out a few would come by and make small talk. he was a decent conversationalist and was never rude. he made most of his observations here and learned a lot about the mucky muck of kadursk. he was usually sound in codys at noon hour and sometimes late at night for a drink and just to chill. his perception and snipers ear made his social presence a learning experiance. he learned more of Romanov, he learned of the elven dillemma, he learned of loft, and of rory, he learned of the dutchess, he learned of the hendinian embassy. he also learned of the mysterious gentleman with the cyan eyes. he spent a lot if his time in and around the temple, something about it facinated him. he also payed close attention to the dutchess, perhaps he would make efforts of meeting her, he could use some more information on what else goes on in the forest.


--to captain thrand--

My visit to the city has been most rewarding, i have toured it from wall to wall and from cieling to floor, tomorrow is wedsday and i would to arange a private luncheon. if you would be so kind my friend i will meet you in the diplomats lounge at one pm sharp, i will be more punctual this time.



The table was set, by know vasily knew all that was going on in the city, and had detailed maps of the forest, or what was left of it in some areas. the dundaineians had been seen clearing away forrest to make room ro an expansive military presidio. there was always activity and there was always a walloubian watching. the rumor mill had been hard at work since he showed up and it seemed that everyone knew of the secret base in the forest, but no one believed it. Vasily smiled whenever he heard these stories. extreme eggatuations and false accounts of "abductees" and "prisoners who were taken but managed to escape" the stories could not be further from the truth. the counter attack on the snipers earlier in the week by his men had struck fear into the guerilla leaders themselves. Vasily's favortie story was a description of there rifles..."theyt are six feet long, with bullets about 2 feet long, so loud that the unsilenced shot would deafen you and so powerful that it could miss your head by up to 24 inches and the shockwave would still snap your neck..." vasily laughed when he heard this and muttered well it can only miss by 15 inches as he walked past the drunken ring of men. all the general had to do now was act...

Telegram from Thrand to Dundainians- message received and understood! Please go ahead. If you land your Mechs at the airfield, the sight of them marching through the city should be good for morale. - THRAND

---


AT CODY's:

Max frowned at the stranger's imperious tone. Still, rule number one was let the paying customer play his part.

"I know Link," Max replied, giving nothing away. Most people in Kadursk knew Link so it was hardly disloyal to admit this. "But he aint a regular. If you want I can let him know you're looking for him -- if I see him."

His initial panic had died away. Whatever this strange creature was, it was not one of the... one of them.

---

RE: The Iron Wallouby Delegation

"Oh damn," squeaked Diana the Intelligence Corps rookie as her monitor went black. Caitlin who was in the office at the time wandered over.

"What's wrong?"

"That Wallouby fellow just deactivated his shower cam." complained the young woman.

"Surely you've seen it all before?" Caitlin teased.

"It's jolly bad for security. That's all." Retorted the younger woman.

"Well it's bad news for whoever botched the installation and made them so damned obvious then." Caitlin replied. "You can ogle the soldiers some other time. Just keep on with your report."

---

OUT IN THE FOREST:

Both Dundainian and Wallouby troops will have discovered the following scene of carnage:

A small settlement, not of guerrillas but of rural woodland folk - charcoal burners and loggers - well off the beaten track of the guerrilla activity.

The settlement's wall damaged by small arms fire, the houses within burned down. Not from a Dundainian napalm drop either -as mentioned this is well off the track.

Inside, a devastating picture. These civilians, including non combatants, lie dead and often mutilated. It is obvious that many of the killings were done in cold blood.

As well as signs of pulse rifle usage, several of the bodies (the younger ones) appear to have been slaughtered using incredibly sharp blades. Three bodies hang from the tree in the village green peppered with arrows. Elven arrows, as is obvious from the fletching and fine construction.

At the heart of the village the body of one man who tried to put up a fight, a hatchet in one hand and a bloody hole where his face used to be.

In his left hand, clutched from his attacker, a silvered pendant again of Elvish construction, light shining seemingly from within it.

--

Liz groaned as she returned to consciousness, the effects of the neurotoxin still making her queasy. The fight against the two river-rats had been the hardest of her life, fighting not only the two assailants, but also the lethal numbing caused by the poisoned dart.

Only years, long years, of training and hard experience had allowed her to triumph. The two brigands lay dead, but she was badly injured herself, bruised and lacerated in places. It was a wonder she had survived her brief faint.

Squinting up from the alley floor she was alarmed to see a strange figure leap from the rooftop next to her and land in a crouch not two feet away.

It was her first sight of Arakesh.

The young hunter remained unaware that he had company, and continued to scan the street, looking for a conveinent shadow to move to. This would be more difficult than hunting in the Marsh, where shadows and hiding places where plentiful if one knew where to look. Here, tall lanterns lit the streets with a fireless glow, and the ground was hard and black. Tall huts lined the streets, some of their higher windows aglow with the same technology that lit the street-lanterns.

OOC: This is written from Arakesh's point of view. Argonians are somewhat primitive, and most distrustful of technology.

Liz silenced the groan of pain that threatened to give her away and backed silently away from the strange hunter before her. Normally her curiousity would inspire her to contact or at the least follow such a singular newcomer, but she was too injured, in too much pain to risk any danger.

With painstaking stealth she inched through the detritus of the alley until she was out of the creature's line of sight, then she risked standing and moved with a little more speed through the cluttered and overhanging alleyways toward Cody's back door.

Max would be able to give her a safe haven to rest and heal.

She hoped.

"Hmm, fair enough." Rukyzai said thoughtfully. "Now, what can you tell me about a Count Stelltor?"

'Stop asking him questions we already know the answers to.' The Guide commented in the phantom's mind.

'Subliminal interrogation sir, subliminal interrogation.' Rukyzai responded telepathically.

'Very well, continue.' The Guide said, it's voice lacking the irritation a human's would have at being corrected by a subordinate.

"Oh you wouldn't expect a nobleman like a count to be seen dead in somewhere like Cody's bar sir," Max replied. Then with more steel in his voice than his visitor expected: "Now will you be having a drink sir? Because this is a bar, and drinks are my business. If it's the town crier you want, I suggest you visit the wharves - the last town crier was hung from a meathook from one of the jetties. He may still be able to help you."

Max paused, prepared to react to the stranger's response.

If phantoms had a mouth, Rukyzai wold be wearing the biggest sneer in the world. The insolence humans could show was remarkable. Instead the bright cyan eyes narrowed to become sinister looking slits as the spectre moved closer to Max and leaned over the bar.

"But drinks are not your only business, are they?" Rukyzai said in a dangerously low growl. "The sword your fingers are itching for speaks for you, human. We already know everything about this forsaken city but for one thing, the thing that is most interesting to us. Do you know what I speak of?"

"Spectre!" Max snarled, now without fear. "If you know of my blade then you know I have stared into the eyes of your ilk before and I still stand! Do not try to scare me with shadows. If you want fortune telling try Ole Missy at the temple, I'm not a man to trade guesses. If you've a question to ask me, then ask me!"

He paused, distracted by a noise from the back room.

"I warned you once before human, you don't know what you're dealing with. I do not frighten weak minds with shadows, but with reality. However, I can see that such tricks are for naught here." Rukyzai said softly, his voice strangely calm. "Now, friend, if you wish a direct question I shall ask it. There is some underground movement here, and we are interested in it. We may even support it. Can you tell me about it?"

The phantom glanced at the back room as well, but dismissed it, instead resuming his former position and staring hard at Max with unblinking eyes.

'Humans are so fun to play with.' The Guide jeered gleefully as Rukyzai wished it would stop distracting him.

Arakesh's keen senses detected a familiar odor in the air... 'Blood... Softskin blood...' The hunter began to move in the direction of the smell, his curiosity aroused. Padding softly with his large reptillian feet, he made little more than a slight swish as his feet made contact with the grains of dust and dirt that covered the backalleys. He arrived in time to see a young woman enter an unassuming-looking door. Apon entering, he swung the door a bit too hard, overestimating its weight. The door slammed into a stack of cardboard boxes, toppling them with considerable noise. Arakesh darted quickly to the nearest shadow, cursing silently in his native tongue.

"Wait!", a voice spoke from behind the Duchess. "I need to talk with you, wait for me, she doesn't know what is she talking about, she's just a kid, deceived by a smart man", said an old diplomat coming from inside the House. "I suppose you're the Elvarin diplomat, we can talk to each other", said the old man, bowing in the traditional elven salute.

Lerathin turned and saw an seemingly ancient elf bow before him in a different form of the traditional elven salute, unique it seems to the Aelosians. Still feeling stung by the dishonour and alert for danger, Lerathin was first and foremost a diplomat and returned the bow, but his body was tensed for betrayal.

He stood back up and replied calmly, "Are you the head of this delagation? For I do not want to speak to this child again", gazing at the elven woman.

"Why are you here? Do you seek the truth?"

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

CODY's BAR

When the phantom made his announcement, Max did panic a little. However sincere the creature was in his statement, there were eyes and ears everywhere that would report an announcement like that.

However...

However Max was not the man he was because he was unafraid to take risks.

"You need to speak with... a friend of mine." he whispered. "I'll arrange a meeting later, but not here. Find the temple, at dusk. The third portico. Wait there." Max paused and smiled. "I think you'll be recognised so don't bother carrying a rolled up newspaper."

IN THE BACK ROOM

Liz had made it to the back room of Cody's and slid gratefully onto a wooden chair, leaning forward to rest on the table. Then she heard the clatter of boxes from the corridor behind her. Though her weary spirit rebelled, her body reacted perfectly, rolling to her feet and drawing her pistol. In a low and wary stance, the pistol supported in a two handed grip to compensate for her fatigue, she moved toward the corridor that led back to the alley.

Boxes had indeed been disturbed.

"If I've been followed," she thought, "this could be the end of everything."

Rukyzai caught the fraction of a second of panic that crossed Max's face, and waved it away like nothing.

"I shall be there. Rest assured that if there are any interlopers, I can take care of them." The shade said, running a finger along the shadowy blade grafted into his forearm, making it shimmer a dark blue.

Without another word, the phantom stepped through the back wall, wisps of black along the floor the only sign he was ever there.

'That was simple.' The Guide stated bluntly.

'Yes, they won't know what hit them.' Rukyzai responded, a faint pride taking hold of him.

He was soon brought back to earth by the clatter of boxes from nearby. He slipped through the wall into the back room from whence the sound came, and found himself near a reptillian creature. The spectre brought up the Soulrazor sword in a defensive position, a dark blue hue dancing across it. He waited anxiously for the strange reptile's response.

Rukyzai caught the fraction of a second of panic that crossed Max's face, and waved it away like nothing.

"I shall be there. Rest assured that if there are any interlopers, I can take care of them." The shade said, running a finger along the shadowy blade grafted into his forearm, making it shimmer a dark blue.

Without another word, the phantom stepped through the back wall, wisps of black along the floor the only sign he was ever there.

'That was simple.' The Guide stated bluntly.

'Yes, they won't know what hit them.' Rukyzai responded, a faint pride taking hold of him.

He was soon brought back to earth by the clatter of boxes from nearby. He slipped through the wall into the back room from whence the sound came, and found himself near a reptillian creature. The spectre brought up the Soulrazor sword in a defensive position, a dark blue hue dancing across it. He waited anxiously for the strange reptile's response.

The mysterious being that moved through walls as if they where water approached the young hunter, who reacted with muscle memory trained from decades of training and hunting. A swift back thrust kick flew in his opponent's direction. Without pausing to see if his strike connected, Arakesh spins quickly, drawing his katana with great speed. The silver edge gleams faintly in the dim light of the storeroom.

"I have not survived this long as a hunter of magic-users by being surprised by wall-swimmers."

Arakesh hisses in accented english, his reptillian eyes narrowing in anger and surprise.

Liz did not breathe. Neither of the strange newcomers had seen her yet, each being understandably preoccupied with the other.

What the hell is going on? she thought.

Then, despite her injuries, she stepped out of the shadows into the clear view of both beings. Her pistol was held in her hand, but pointed downward. Visible but not a direct threat.

When she spoke her voice was clear, strong and without tremor.

"Declare yourselves!" she announced. "What is your business here?"

"Wait!", a voice spoke from behind the Duchess. "I need to talk with you, wait for me, she doesn't know what is she talking about, she's just a kid, deceived by a smart man", said an old diplomat coming from inside the House. "I suppose you're the Elvarin diplomat, we can talk to each other", said the old man, bowing in the traditional elven salute.

Lerathin turned and saw an seemingly ancient elf bow before him in a different form of the traditional elven salute, unique it seems to the Aelosians. Still feeling stung by the dishonour and alert for danger, Lerathin was first and foremost a diplomat and returned the bow, but his body was tensed for betrayal.

He stood back up and replied calmly, "Are you the head of this delagation? For I do not want to speak to this child again", gazing at the elven woman.

"Why are you here? Do you seek the truth?"

"I'm the brains of this delegation, although I'm not the leader. And I came here looking for the proofs that elves are making terrorist attacks upon the population of this country. Forget about that child, she's too rash and innocent, and a human deceived her with an...astonishing appearance", said the old elf. "But, yes, I'm looking for the truth. Are you behind those terrorist attacks?. I was sent by the Aelosian Princess, because the Mordorians accused your goverment of terrorists, and as far as I know, our nations signed a treaty and became allies few weeks ago. Now give me your version of what happened, because I didn't bought the another explanation, and I trust in my own kin".

Count Rorand Stelltor reclined casually among the statuary on the rooftop of the abandoned temple of Kadursk. Far to the south, visible as a dark stain on a dark landscape, the forest of Eldreshka sprawled like a drunk unable to help itself.

Here and there within Eldreshka's dark heart, flashes and sparks. From this vantage point a display of fireworks. Close up, he knew, bloody conflict raged there. Mech warriors, guerrilla troops, commandos. And something far worse was in that forest tonight.

Not for the first time, Count Rorand was forced to face up to the consequences of some hard decisions. Most of the time he could push his doubts deep down beyond the laughter and the rakish insouciance, but occasionally they rumbled with a deep bass rumble that was unavoidable yet hard to define.

Now was such a time.

It was because of the... of the emissary from the Former Mordorian heartland. One of the special representatives had been sent to carry out the plan that Rory himself had suggested, a plan that would guarantee him the ascendancy over his rivals as well as secure the city against an external threat. So far so good, but those special representatives were... (his thoughts skidded away from direct contemplation of the beings) ... the worst things in the world.

And tonight he'd had to meet one of them.

The interview had gone well enough. The thing had even congratulated Rory on his plan.

~the master is pleased with you and has marked you out for great things~ he had been told.

Cold comfort.

And now the Thing was out there in the woods, finalising the big lie, carrying out Rory's plan, and wreaking Hell-knows what havoc out there.

He felt sickened. And pushed the sickened feeling deep down.

There was work to be done.

OOC: sorry for my thread absence i will reply soon

"I'm the brains of this delegation, although I'm not the leader. And I came here looking for the proofs that elves are making terrorist attacks upon the population of this country. Forget about that child, she's too rash and innocent, and a human deceived her with an...astonishing appearance", said the old elf. "But, yes, I'm looking for the truth. Are you behind those terrorist attacks?. I was sent by the Aelosian Princess, because the Mordorians accused your goverment of terrorists, and as far as I know, our nations signed a treaty and became allies few weeks ago. Now give me your version of what happened, because I didn't bought the another explanation, and I trust in my own kin".

"I am here because our nation received a transmission of a certain nation that was found within the ash desert bordering our realm. A leading warrior of our race, Lord Colonel Lionel Brightwing heard the transmission and the reply that was sent by The Former Mordorians. He went off in the direction of the signal with a select group of warriors. We have as yet to hear from him and so I came here to see if these people were a threat to Lionel".

Lerathin looked serious when he continued, "And thats the reason why I am here. I have made no attempts to be violent agianst the Former Mordorians, nor have I sponsored any terrorist groups or attacks. The only strange thing I found in this city is that the people dont seem to....belong here. And I found that certain people hint at a time before the Former Mordorians were here. But that is all, I have as yet to complete my investigation".

Looking around himself and at the field, Lerathin suggested, "Come, let us leave this public place and you are welcome to stay at my residence", he allowed himself a small smile, "emperor knows its large enough to house a dragon".

"While we are walking, let us talk".

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"Is your residence safe and secure?. The human Count that talked to the Duchess knew a lot about you. Maybe you're being watched, maybe someone will hear what you have to say to me. However, I saw something strange too. The soldiers...with no doubt they're abusing of the people in the streets. And I didn't bought the rescue by that Count neither", said the Old diplomat. "My name is Karalis Albethil, my friend and kin, maybe together we can found what's really happening here".

"It is safe, for I will place wards of silence around the rooms to block the sounds of our conversation. I have as yet to place any because I was living there by myself. Alas that is the only magic I know".

"However, one thing is truly bothering me. What is the Count Stelltor to gain by the accusation that he has placed upon me?"

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"I don't know, as I said, e just arrived to this country, that's why I want you to brief me about the current situation". As he spoke in a very low voice, he pointed at the guards standing in the door of the Aelosian residence. "The soldiers, they can be trusted, they don't like the Duchess, neither that Count, maybe we should bring them with us".

Lerathin nodded in approval as he said, "If you wish, then they may come, however we shouldnt leave the duchess here alone. Let us place her in a room to stop her from misbehaving". Lerathin smiled as he said that.

"The current situation it seems is that there is a battle raging in the forest and I heard mention of it as a revolution though I dont know for sure. And believe me when I say that I am not the cause for the fighting in the forest".

"What about the goverment?. Is it evil?", asked the elf, walking alongside Lerathin. "We must know it. The political situation is delicate, and this affair should be tretaed with words and not with brute force. However, if we discover evilness in this goverment, in a week an Aelosian fleet will get rid of them".

Liz did not breathe. Neither of the strange newcomers had seen her yet, each being understandably preoccupied with the other.

What the hell is going on? she thought.

Then, despite her injuries, she stepped out of the shadows into the clear view of both beings. Her pistol was held in her hand, but pointed downward. Visible but not a direct threat.

When she spoke her voice was clear, strong and without tremor.

"Declare yourselves!" she announced. "What is your business here?"

Arakesh keeps his blade positioned in the direction of the attempted ambusher, and glares at the woman with the handgun.

"I am Arakesh Quickclaw, a hunter from the Black Marsh."

A parade of all of the dundaine forces had begun many people were standing at the sidewalks watching the large mechs and tanks and solders walk down the main street.

In the back round napalm drops were tearing down the forrest

Romanov: I want 3/4 of that forest burnt down we need room to fight.

Radioman: Yes sir!

Mech Leader1: Ok team regroup at the landing field

Mech Leader2: Team 2 Fallow team 1 command

Mech Team2: Aye Sir!!

"What I need to show them," Thrand grunted at Caitlin, "is that regardless of the way the political wind is blowing, I'm still the man who can make or break a situation."

You certainly can break wind Caitlin thought to herself, but said nothing.

The armoured limousine was taking Thrand on a surprise goodwill visit to various of the new embassies that had sprung up around Kadursk in the last few weeks. More and more foreign ambassadors were making Kadursk their home, and the Former Mordorians had made it plain to Thrand that they were to be royally welcomed.

And he knew he was the man for the job. Alright the banquet had not exactly gone without a hitch (mad paramilitaries firing at the ceiling, and then finding out that notorious revolutionaries had attended the function eating and drinking at his expense!) But now was the time to show his quality, and paying a diplomatic visit to each of the new embassies was the first step.

He glanced across at Caitlin, piggy eyes running up her crossed legs to her knees charmingly exposed by her tight uniform skirt. He licked his lips but thought better of making a move there and then (after the unfortunate affair the previous year). However his thoughts had fallen into a familiar groove...

"This elf Duchess," Thrand enquired.

"Hmm?" responded Caitlin who was seated among a scattering of brown card dossiers on the seat alongside Thrand.

"Pretty is she?"

Caitlin hesitated for only a second. "Very, apparently. In that elven way. Perfect ageless complexion, fine bone structure, big eyes." She thought bitterly but didn't add ears that could have a man's eye out.

"We'll visit her last eh?" Thrand chortled, "Spend a little more time getting to know her. Maybe take a gift or two."

A sudden blue flash filled the interior of the limousine.

The limousine swerved out of control. The driver, expert in combat handling, unable to compensate for the sudden loss of half of the rear axle.

Caitlin screamed, blood covered her, the smell of burning choking her.

Thrand screamed too, wetly, his blood gushing from the ruin of his chest, a hole the size of a fist punched through his right side from front to back.

The car overturned, rolling at high speed, smashing into the corner of an ancient stone wall, shattering it.

In the palatial office above Thrand's own rooms, the office reserved for dignitaries of exceptional importance, an armoured trooper cowered prostrate on the floor.

A shadow fell across him, and the trooper, knowing only that he had been summoned here, waited for death (almost welcoming it).

Instead a voice grew inside his brain, spreading like a tumour.

~captain thrand has been attacked, send medical aid at once, surgeons qualified to treat railgun injuries, go now~

The trooper scrambled out of the room, not looking up.

*Malk COntent walks into Cody's Bar* "Whatever you've got on tap" He says to the barkeep "Say whose Cody?"

The hulking bartender (looking a little preoccupied it must be said) turns to Malk and nods in welcome.

"On tap, sir, we've got the very finest ales brewed by master brewers from the most celebrated breweries in the world. Ah no, my mistake, that was last night. Will a good strong local brown do you?"

He poured the drink, making sure it was well topped up and handed it across to Malk.

"There you go, sir. Cody? Well now, I'm not sure. The sign was up when I moved in and well you know how it is. Easier to leave it up than buy a new one. I'm Max by the way. New in town?"

OOC: What's Malk look like by the way? And welcome aboard!

"I want to take a walk...alone. I must...think about our situation here", said the Duchess to her guards, sliding a little gun into her purse.

"Bu, my lady, that's a breach into the protocol, you can't take a walk alone in a foreign and unknown country...", protested one of the soldiers, visibly worried.

"That's my order and I'll assume the responsability", answered the Duchess, leaving the residence as if she were on shopping in the Aelosian market district.

Malk, smiles at the bartender "Why don't you drink that ale, and I can remove it from your blood!" his smile broadens and he bears fangs. He glances around the pub, to makes sure there are oppucpants, well none that are not to drunk to be believed. He brushes his mane of black hair behind his ear, and jumps over the counter, red eyes fixed upon the barkeeps neck. "Lets hope you enjoy this as much I will." His hands clasp the barkeeps neck, his hand are ice cold. "Don't worry I won't kill you yet."

Liz did not breathe. Neither of the strange newcomers had seen her yet, each being understandably preoccupied with the other.

What the hell is going on? she thought.

Then, despite her injuries, she stepped out of the shadows into the clear view of both beings. Her pistol was held in her hand, but pointed downward. Visible but not a direct threat.

When she spoke her voice was clear, strong and without tremor.

"Declare yourselves!" she announced. "What is your business here?"


Arakesh keeps his blade positioned in the direction of the attempted ambusher, and glares at the woman with the handgun.

"I am Arakesh Quickclaw, a hunter from the Black Marsh."

OOC: Perhaps you overlooked my post. Here it is for you again.

"What about the goverment?. Is it evil?", asked the elf, walking alongside Lerathin. "We must know it. The political situation is delicate, and this affair should be treated with words and not with brute force. However, if we discover evilness in this goverment, in a week an Aelosian fleet will get rid of them".

And my nation will join you as well though our warriors are scattered throughout the universe. However I dont think we should jump to conclusion. The only person who it seems to wish harm upon me is the Count. If he seeks to cause war between our nations and the Former mordorians, it would only benefit him. I dont know at all if the government is evil, only just hints. Our main course its seems right now is to investigate further into these alegations upon me and find their true source and its purpose.

If you would be willing to have discussions with the local government, I intend to seek answers within the populace.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Move into the forest men celled the mech commanders

Romanov: Troops beind them and the tanks behind the troops

Viktor Romanov: were gonna mow them down Fire Tankers!!

Tankers: Roger sir


The troops never saw combat that day not one of them. the mechs however saw the frightened looks of the guerrillas when they saw the mechs before they were killed, not one was taken alive.

At the end of the first day the city of kadursk had expanded 1 1/2 miles into the forestland

OOC: Hi 'Argonians! I hadn't overlooked your post, I was waiting to see if the other chap introduced himself too... since he didn't I'll continue. By the way, did I read correctly that your chap seems to be a Vampire hunter! Might come in handy seeing who Max is being attacked by not 10 feet away!

IC:

Liz kept her gaze steady, although all she felt like doing was collapsing.

"Black marsh?" she queried. "Well, fine. And welcome to Kadursk. Now what the hell are you two doing skulking round the back of Cody's? Couldn't you see the door was marked Private?"

An angry shout from the bar rang out...

"Henulka morionna!" shouted Max in defiance, breaking the creature's grip with a surprisingly powerful overhand sweep of his right arm.

Carrying on this apparently ungainly motion he was carried past the attacker, his hand rising again from below the bar, this time clutching the handle of the sword concealed there.

Never taking his eyes from the blood drinker, Max flicked the wrapping cloths from the blade with a single movement. Pale light flickered down the length of the blade.

"Now sir," Max said calmly, "shall we try that again?"

Fast Jack and Cooler liked to spend their free time on Wheel Street, which was universally regarded by those in the know as nowhere very special. Wheel Street was flanked by dusty grey storefronts that with only a few exceptions were boarded up forever. Nothing happened on Wheel Street unless it happened to people passing through on the way to somewhere else.

At the north end of Wheel Street was the Second Cup Diner, one of the few businesses still dredging up a living here. The owner and manager was Marty, a grey haired hardman whose walls still displayed the ringside photographs taken during his prize fighting career. The diner was clean, and smelled of better days, but there were very few regular customers. Marty served Fast Jack and Cooler grudgingly each day and always insisted they take their drinks outside, watching till they were off the premises.

Between the Second Cup Diner and the south end of the street were the boarded up storefronts, steel shuttered monuments to stillborn commercial dreams unable to survive in the thin atmosphere of Wheel Street. Concrete litter bins, unemptied since anyone last cared, measured the distance from north to south on both sides of the street. Fast food wrappers and the styrofoam cups from the Second Cup Diner made up most of the detritus. People on Wheel Street ate and drank on the move.

Fast Jack leaned back against the shutters of a derelict clothes store and produced a torn packet of cigarettes, a strong imported brand and the last packet of a shipment he'd bought a month ago from the man who'd stolen them. He flicked the cigarette from his hands into his mouth, a feat he practised in the empty flat he called home in the mistaken belief that those who witnessed it would admire his grace. The packet disappeared back into his jacket's inside pocket alongside the jack-knife that had earned him his nickname.

Cooler, playing the role they'd worked out over years of pointless toil, produced a brass cased zippo lighter and without being prompted lit Fast Jack's cigarette.
"It builds a reputation," Fast Jack had told him. "If people see people doing things for me, it makes them think I'm somebody. That makes you somebody too."
Cooler hoped that he would be somebody soon. He was beginning to realise that he was a long way from being somebody, and that Fast Jack was not a whole lot nearer than he was. Cooler leaned back on the shutters alongside Fast Jack and looked around gloomily. Another day loomed nearer promising more talk of things that may, but never did, happen.

Fast Jack suddenly slapped Cooler on the arm, nodding up the street toward the intersection where the Second Cup Diner stood.

"Lookit" he said. Cooler looked.
"Wha?" Cooler asked.

"Look at that cooch."

The two denizens of Wheel Street looked on the immortal beauty of the Aelosian Duchess, and then slowly turned to look at each other. Cooler's expression was one of worried apprehension. Fast Jack's was entirely different.

Fast Jack patted his pocket.

"Let's go introduce ourselves," he said.

Malk smile fades, his eyes gloss over returning to a nearly normal blue. "Good, kill me, bring to me the final death, for I dont wish to be here when my Childer arrive, I dont think you do either." Once again he smiles "Tell me is that silver?"

Max didn't relax his guard for a second.

"Silver, sir? That was the Lone Ranger's horse wasn't it? Now then, killing patrons isn't my job, so we'll forget you just said that shall we? Now how about a glass of beer. I'm guessing you don't drink... wine."

Malk smiles, turns around and walks out the door. "It'll be dawn soon" He looks back at the barkeep "Maybe tommorow night, I'll bring a friend."

Max watched the nightleech depart and let out a long breath. Slowly wrapping the blade back in its oilcloth he replaced it beneath the bar.

"Bring an army, son," he muttered, "we'll be waiting."

OOC: I've just replied to your telegram!

The old aelosian diplomat looked at Lerathin nodding in approval. "Let's find out what's happening. I suggest you to meet again with me in two days, in this same place, and please take care of yourself, maybe this goverment is already planning to get rid of you. I'll talk with the goverment, to see how corrupted the higher spheres are".

The Duchess looked amazed as a pair of men appeared from the shadows and approached her. She just crossed the street to put some distance between her and the strange looking humans.

The old aelosian diplomat looked at Lerathin nodding in approval. "Let's find out what's happening. I suggest you to meet again with me in two days, in this same place, and please take care of yourself, maybe this goverment is already planning to get rid of you. I'll talk with the goverment, to see how corrupted the higher spheres are".

The Duchess looked amazed as a pair of men appeared from the shadows and approached her. She just crossed the street to put some distance between her and the strange looking humans.

How do I upload my piccy?

MECH DOWN MECH DOWN MECH DOWN!!!!

Was the scream on all the com links as a mechs leg mobilization components shorted out causing the leg to quit working and the mech to colapse.


Mech Gold3 Do you read? this is Gold Leader!!

MechGold3: I read I have small lacerations to the face and im trapped.

Gold Leader: Roger We will get down right to you at once.

Red Leader: Gold take your forces up and keep moving we will take care of the downed mech.

Gold Leader: Roger Red leader

Red Leader: No problem....Red team surround the mech and call Captain Romanov to send engineers out here!!

Red Team: Roger!!

Radioman(ReD Team): Captain Romanov do you read?

Romanov: Roger is there a problem?

Radioman: Yes Sir Gold team has a downed mech and red team is guarding him so gold can keep moving

Romanov: Roger engineers will be at your position ASAP. Tell Gold to be back at the crash site in 2 hrs for a regroup.

Radioman: Roger!

Red Leader: Gold leader be at red's position in 2 hours for regroup.

Gold Leader: Roger

Engineers had arrived at the mech in 30 minutes and medics removed the downed pilot. The look of the mech was bad 3 systems had shorted and all the lubercant and hydrolic fluids in the right leg were gone. To add to the trouble they had 2 bursted hydrolic lines and a poped coolant valve. This mech would take days to repair.

((Sorry I've been away, just enjoying the snow. :D Oh, and Russel Hobbs? There are too many things going on to skip to the next night. I think it would be best if you saved that post for later.))

The Argonian's kick passed right through Rukyzai like he wasn't even there, causing another cascade of boxes to spill down to their feet. The phantom thought for a moment about ripping this oversized lizard's soul from his body, but the woman's command for identity halted that musing.

"Agae-kai Rukyzai, I'm here from the Cabal on matters that do not concern you." He stated coldly, stepping from the shadows and locking his sight onto her figure.

'Attractive in human sights, but there's something else about her...'

The old aelosian diplomat looked at Lerathin nodding in approval. "Let's find out what's happening. I suggest you to meet again with me in two days, in this same place, and please take care of yourself, maybe this goverment is already planning to get rid of you. I'll talk with the goverment, to see how corrupted the higher spheres are".

The Duchess looked amazed as a pair of men appeared from the shadows and approached her. She just crossed the street to put some distance between her and the strange looking humans.

Lerathin bowed and turned to leave, "As you wish two days it is in your residence, but also please be careful. This place is truly strange", and with that he left.

He went back to his residence and quickly climbed up the stairs into his room. Grabbing his camo cloak and tying it about him, he blurred into the shadows.

Climbing unto the rooftops, he then leapt from building to building, a shadow within a shadow as he hurried to Cody's bar. He devoured miles as his minimal training with the Schola Militas took hold.

I hoped that Max have managed to contact Liz. This situation must be solved soon. as he fast approached his destination.

Finally he recognised the building and he dropped stealthly in front of its door.

Tying the cloak tightly about his face, he went in....


http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

There are too many things going on to skip to the next night. I think it would be best if you saved that post for later

Thats cool, I haven't managed to get hold of the person whos meant to be playing Escartia yet Iwas hopimg she would get her act together if I posted that her character was there. Malk never left, it too dangerous walking round in his condition, hes there you just cant see him

OOC: Getting busy at Cody's isn't it... So a lizard, a phantom and a Liz in the back room, and an Elf just walked in the front door. Hopefully this may calm things down a little...

IC:

Max looked up at the stranger and his guarded expression changed into one of wonder and awe.

In the back room, Liz snapped out with commanding authority:

"All that happens in this realm concerns me! Desist, Phantom and-"
she broke off distracted by a sudden intuition, glancing behind her, "- Lerath...?"

Outside the bar, two platoons of armoured men unbolted the safety catches from their rifles. Among them a figure wreathed in darkness.

~dangerous enemies are within, kill them all~

---

Fast Jack and Cooler accelerated a little toward the Duchess, Fast Jack making mocking "cooing" sounds in his throat.

"Hey coochie!" he called, "Need a guide round town?"

OOC:
There are too many things going on to skip to the next night. I think it would be best if you saved that post for later

Thats cool, I haven't managed to get hold of the person whos meant to be playing Escartia yet Iwas hopimg she would get her act together if I posted that her character was there.

So Malk is not there or is he? Please edit it if he isnt so that I can change my previous post as well. Thanks

IC: Lerathin definitely sensed Liz and realised dumbfoundedly that he was fast approaching being soul bonded to her. But how!? She's not even an elf!, but his astonishment was short lived as he sensed something else.

He turned back and gazed hard towards the door. An approaching darkness!

"Max!", Lerathin called over his shoulder, "If you have another way out of your bar, we better flee or we will all die here!".

Pulling his family sword free, blue fire raced to life along its length as it sensed the unnatural.

What have I gotten myself into!, he cursed as he readied himself for battle.

A smile crossed his face as the thought raced through his mind, I still wish I had brought a pulse pistol


http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

A smile in the corner catches your attention, then red eyes, slowly, but smootly a body appears. "Need any help, its only dogs arent really that tasty." With this he pulls back a corner of his overcoat, revealing a scabard the hilt of the sowrd glint with gold embroidery. "I've no idea where I got this, but I thought it might come in handy." After saying this he draws the sword, made of pure silver. "Funny really, wielding a weapon that was probaly meant to kill me"

OOC: to upload your pic, it has to be between these two, . And your pic has to be already on the net. Oh and was your last post to me? It wasnt clear.

OCC: Its was to you, it wasnt excatly meant to be clear. I take it you are about to be under attack, and Malk could use friends so he wishes to help, unless of course the supernatural the sword senses is him, then he means no harm, hes not paticulary powerful during the day anyway.

http://www.daitoanime.com/immagini/a81484.jpg

OOC: Ah better thanks, and no the sword wasnt for you, but since youre here as well.....

IC: Lerathin turned and stared in horror, but it wasnt long before every fibre of his being burned with raged that an undead walked this realm. But his logical mind asserted itself as he was tempted to skewer the thing here and now.

Lerathin nearly snarled out his responce, "Well then, any help is better than none I suppose"

But with this being's appearance, his sword cast forth even more blue fire as it flickered at the creature's direction. Sword, this is not the time to be righteous!, Lerathin cursed as he struggled against thousand of centuries of ancestors demanding the creature's blood.

Finally the blade relented but gave him a small shock through his arm. That wasnt called for!, as Lerathin nearly dropped his sword.

"I hope you know how to fight creature, for this is going to be bloody if we dont leave here soon enough", he glanced at Max before turning back towards the door.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"Tonight's usually a quiet damn night!" roars Max, drawing his own luminescent blade from beneath the bar.

The windows and doors of the bar (both at front and back) all came in at once, armoured troopers swarming through the openings, their assault rifles firing indiscriminately.

Max was already shoulder charging the lead attacker, avoiding their fire by drawing closer to them, his sword scything through kevlar armour as though it were not there.

In the back room, Liz ducked away from the oncoming armoured warriors, seemingly being drawn into the main bar by some compulsion she could not name.

Behind the troopers the dark figure rose like a stormcloud sweeping into the bar room.

Malk smiles, it seems to be a habit of his. "We will see if I remember how to fight."
He pounces toward the nearest enemy, sword tearing through his neck, he grabs the head before the body falls to the grounds and pours some of the blood into his mouth. After this he seems to regain even more energy and throws his sword sideways, impaling an oppositions heart.
"Now the true fight begins, hail to the nostrafatue" With this he raises his weaponless arms, a red pentragram glows on his gloves and the very shadows themselves seem to move, grabbing soldiers.
"Damn!" He screams as he get shot in the back with an assault rifle.
"Thats gunna take some healing" The shadows fade away as his concentration breaks,
"Cold iron" He collapses to the ground, not dead (well technically he his, but he hasn't met final death)
"Perhaps I should of just stuck to the shadows"

http://www.daitoanime.com/immagini/a81484.jpg

Lerathin ducked and weaved away from the oncoming armoured troopers, avoiding the incoming bullets by rolling onto the ground and leaping forward feet first into the face of a trooper. As he felt the neck snapped, Lerathin flailed out with his sword, taking the head of another as his feet touched ground once again. He desperately sought the being of darkness, as his racial instinct burned to slay the foul abomination.

He sliced off an arm of a trooper, the hand still clutching onto the rifle, spitting out death everywhere. Lerathin knocked down another before cleanly taking off his head and raced forward to slay a trooper who was about to end the life of the wounded vampire until finally he stood in front of the thing.

"I, Lerathin Thoritas stand defiant before you!", Lerathin roared as he leapt forward, sword arcing out to meet his foe....

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"Escartia, help"

The being of cold night recoiled from the burning eyes of the elf lord, but only for a second.

~your line ends with you~

Its words seared Lerathin’s mind like acid, its mental touch an abomination to him. The creature had a sword of its own, already driving with deadly accuracy toward Lerathin with inhuman speed. The blade was a dull grey, with notched edges, and the air around it steamed like breath on a cold morning.

~all light will fade, starlight and sunlight will be mocking memories, you will plead for oblivion~

Malk in a fit of desperation, jumps in beetween the blade, "this gunna hurt, probaly me"

"My Line might end but for as long as there is light, then the elves shall shine!", Lerathin spat in defiance but was stunned when the vampire he protected leapt into his foe's sword.

"You fool!!", and he immediately pulled the vampire from the blade and stood above him, ready to defend an undead of all things.

"Your fight is with me!", and Lerathin burst into movement, his sword striking his foe's own as they finally stood face to face, a being of light and a being of darkness.

Just like the old times, the sword whispered, Just like the old times...

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"Fine if you die expect me to bring you back."

OOC: Russel, I do wish you make your posts more clearer, it confuses me no end when you dont actually direct it towards someone.

ooc sorry i didnt i make sense, then again he is quite quite mad.
I was talking to u as if u die hell bring u back

OOC: Lolz, dont you have to do that while i am alive first? I didnt know you can reanimate a corpse :wink:

weell to become 1 of thhee undead, all the blood must be drained then i feed u sum of my blood, if the body has been dead for too long it won't work.

OOC: Ahem, how can you feed me some of your blood..if I was dead?

well not feed just sort of dribble it into your mouth

Isnt there a fight going on

Isnt there a fight going on

OOC: I cant believe we are having this academic discussion about bringin back a corpse. Anyway, there is another thing that fails you even though your plot is good, and that is grammar and structure sentence. I like your story but sometimes I just dont get what you are trying to convey. Please reread your work before posting it or do what I do, and click the edit button and go mad. :D Besides, who dont love a vampire?

And yes there is fighting going on but what can you do when the author is away.

OOC: Sorry for being away but I'm at work and can only sneak in the occasional visit... apologies chaps!

IC:
Liz burst into the chaos of the bar room, narrowly avoiding being torn apart by hollow point rounds that blew holes in the dirty plasterwork by her head. Her slim pistol spat precise death, puncturing the visors of the shock troopers, who sought to overwhelm the defenders.

Lerathin, appearing to her eyes like a figure robed in light stood sword to sword with -

-no-

-his foe. She raced toward him, to live or die by his side was her unformed instinct, but was slammed to the ground as one of the armoured warriors barrelled into her. Her reflexes still slowed from the beating she took earlier, she was pinned beneath the hateful creature which raised the butt of its assault rifle to slam into her. She twisted out of the way and it missed crushing her skull by a fraction of an inch.

Max appeared from nowhere, bleeding from a bullet graze across his scalp, his sword cleaving the head of the soldier.

"My lady," he gasped, helping Liz up, "you must flee. Against this foe we cannot prevail."

"Flee?" she questioned, "I will never run from this fight!"

He could not wait for her reply, turning to engage another foe. Liz raced toward the darkness by the doorway where Lerathin stood shining like an angry star.

Vamp rock, my character is in love with another a vampire called Escaratia, though I see what you mean about m posts, though if u wnt a full history i wont be able to tell you as he forget most of it.

"Dude this aint looking to good"
He runs to nearest corner, his body shimmers as if its is bieng torn out of the fabric of reality itself. The shimmering gets faster and faster until all that is there is a deep pool of darkness.

http://rygel.free.fr/images/hellsing/Alucard_avatar.jpg

OOC: Aite, I undertsand Russ, but remember the edit button :D

IC: Lerathin moved like liquid fire, moving faster than he has ever moved in all his life as his struggled against his deadly foe. Steel slammed into steel as they fought together as one, weaving a deadly dance of swords.

Muscles ached as Lerathin received the thunderous blows from the being on his blade. He dodged a blow that would have took off his head and counterattacked, his sword slicing upwards as he fought desperately for his life and for those around him.

He sensed Liz behind him and cursed unelflike that she was foolish enough to come into this sort of danger. Oh well, she is only human

But deep down Lerathin knew he was glad....

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

OCC Thanks, Im not gunna play much more part in this scene, as I have be wounded, Cold Iron has the capacity to really ruin a vampires night.

The lethal shadow continued to rain blows down on Lerathin with increasing ferocity. No emotion showed in the faceless darkness before the elven warrior, but the intensity of the battle spoke of a desperation to slay the elf quickly. The creature's voice rang out into the minds of all within Cody's bar:

~enough, this ends now~

Liz, approaching, suddenly fell to her knees, the creature's mental touch draining the life from her. Around her, even the troopers clutched at their helmed heads and collapsed, writhing at this obscene psychic invasion.

She reached out a hand toward Lerathin and felt warmth flood back into her.

The creature on the other hand seemed to have doubled in size and dread splendour, it's cloak (?) spread behind it almost like wings, extinguishing all light from outside.

"Oooh its dark, finally I can see properly!" Malk jumps with joy, almost as if he didn't feel the gun wound in his back.
"Hey what the hell is that thing, well aint we the one beaten with an ugly stick." Malk peers into the darkness to get a greater look at whats obcuring the light.
"Ah I think its time I was quiet."

OOC: Malk may even have felt revitalised by the big wave of anti-life energy that had such a devastating effect on everyone else in the bar. By the way, re: your telegram to me, some splendid ideas in there! I would imagine that such a thing would still be in its early stages so far...

OOC Of course it may be that it hasn't even started I mean how many of our kind can there be? Besides Malk and Escaratia (who keeps getting disconnected when she is about to post!)

The glow of life around Lerathin dimmed as he almost fell to his knees in agony. You will not fall!, his sword commanded.

Since when has a child of the of The House of Tel Shavas kneel before a dark one! Rise up and know that we are one!, the voices of a thousand ancestors roared in rage and suddenly their willpower and skill flowed forcefully through him.

Lerathin screamed rejoicefully as he leapt back unto his feet and as he got up, he saw Liz. He smiled at her for Lerathin knew what he must do. He must not fail.

He turned once again to face the towering monstrousity. "If I fall, then so shall you hell spawn! For the House of Tel Shavas!", he cried defiantly and leapt once more into battle, his sword moving like quicksilver.

For you my ancestors. But most of all, for you Liz

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

OOC: can any1 care to telegram me this brilliant ideas :D ?

OOC: The idea is just some IC background for Malk, nothing to worry about.

The enemy fell back, daunted by Lerathin's onslaught. He knew that he faced not a single elven warrior, but the will of generations, the light of a thousand lives.

It was inconceivable that this... creature... should triumph. But as he gave ground the dark being knew a sudden and unfamiliar pang of fear.

Escape. A chance to regroup, to plan. The troopers are expendable.

~my curse on your line, a wind of knives to meet you~

The mental exclamation struck Liz like a blow to the face, but shielded by Lerathin's aura she survived. The troopers writhed, shrivelling on the ground around the wreckage of the bar.

With a crackling like a dying ember, the spectral form flickered and vanished leaving a hissing silence behind it.

Lerathin just stood there in the middle of such carnage, his camo cloak flickering about him as he realised the enormity of what he had just done. I am alive, the thought entered his mind and Lerathin finally fell to his knees.

Thank you my sword....my ancestors, and he raised his sacred family blade to his lips and kissed it.

The voices came once again though it was fading, You are our child. We shall always come as long as there is light

Sheer exhaustion slammed into him and Lerathin flickered out into unconsiousness. The last thing he saw was Liz's worried face.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

"Phew thank Caine for that."

Malk creeps ot of his corner resembling nothing more than a frightened bug. He pulls his sword from a a dead body and goes to lick the blood off, but stops before his tongue makes contact.

"Ah better not, damn silver."

He places the sword in its scabard and picks up a disgarded asoult rifle.

"Anyone knows how much these are worth, I could sell few and get my self some real firepower."

He surveys the carnage around him, only now does he realize what has just happened.
"People..... people are..... are...dead"

A tear wells up in his eye, something not commonly seen in those that lack a soul. His eyes return to a normal blue, as if his hell born fires have died.

"Why....surely there could have been another way."

He turns his around and his eyes fall upon Lerathin.

"What about you elf, what do you feel, are you less compassionate than me, I must have commited a thousand atrocities but.. I have only killed once before."

With this he falls to the floor, mumbling so quietly it may have only just been a thought.

"Emmile........"
]

OOC: hobbs.....I LUV YOUR CHARACTER! :D He IS very INSAne!! And Lolz to ur picture! :lol: Jeez they dislike you :wink:

Liz stood, unsteadily, moving a little closer to Lerathin. She paused and looked back, seeing Malk for the first time.

”Wh…what the hell is this thing doing here?” before an answer could be forthcoming, a gasp of agony caught her attention. “Max!” she cried, springing across the room to where the bartender lay, curled into a ball of pain, clutching at his sword.

”Max,” she said again, laying her hand on his forehead, “don’t do this Maximillian, you can’t let this darkness devour you.”
Her voice took on a commanding tone, all trace of fear and hesitation gone. “Castellan, you still have a duty to fulfil, the house of Temrin needs you. Come back.”

Max’s eyes flicked open, the pain receding, calm resolve in his eyes. Liz smiled down at him.

“Lady, Elizabeth, I failed you.”
“Never yet, Castellan,” she responded gently. “Now ready yourself, we must leave this place.”

OOC: Elvarin- just got your last telegram... who's talking about killing people (well, you know what I mean)?

OOC: Thank you, your character is very cool too. Case your wondering Emmile was the person he loved, until one night he was sucumbed by the thirst, forced into a bloodsucking frenzy he devoured her, with it his memory. The first thing he remembers is clutching her in his arms, weeping. There and then he pledged to never kill another, there is always another way, tonight he broke that pledge. His madness will only get worse. :D

Walking in no apparent direction, Lerathin paused to take in the breathtaking view of the cascading waterfalls as he recognised the birthplace of his ancestors.

"Welcome youngling", a voice called out gently behind him, and Lerathin turned to see his grandfather smiling at him.

"Elder one!", Lerathin cried and ran into his grandfather's opened arms and clutched him with joy.

"It has been too long my child"

"The same for me, my elder", Lerathin weeped as he held his grandfather.

Releasing him, he asked, "Where are we? Why am I here?"

Laughing, the ancient elf replied, "Always the inquisitive one arent we? I missed your mind most of all. We are in the nether world and I brought you here to tell you that what you have set out to do will change the lives of our peoples for better or worse".

The joy gone out of his eyes, Lerathin asked, "What do you mean Elder one?"

"I mean that your decisions and actions bear grave consequences", looking at his grandchild with pride, "but I know that you will choose the right path".

Lerathin demanded, "But what if I choose wrongly? How will I know if I am right?"

His grandfather smiled, "You will choose rightly for you are of my blood. And by also following the blood of a lost land".

And with those last words, Lerathin eyes opened as he struggled to wakefulness. What does he mean? as he gazed about him in confusion.

His eyes went passed the quietly mumbling vampire knowing from its noble actions that it was no threat, and finally settled on Liz and the slumped form of...Oh no!

He dragged himself to his feet and approached awkwardly towards Liz. "Is there some way I can help?", Lerathin enquired in a croaked voice as he fell beside her.

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Max pushed himself up against his bar, and raised himself, supporting himself on his sword, the point digging into the floor.

"I cannot leave m'lady- uh - Liz," he said, voice weak. "This place needs -"

"But they will tear it apart looking for this lord here," she indicated Lerathin, half turning to face him. As she did, her eyes opened a little as though seeing beyond him. "who- who is that old one?" Her voice trailed off a little in confusion and she sagged, exhaustion finally defeating her. Lerathin caught her as she passed out (OOC: I know I shouldn't control your character, but I guessed you wouldn't mind that small liberty).

Max lowered his eyes deferentially.

"Take the lady to safety, shining one." he spoke gruffly. "I will be as safe here as anywhere. A simple bartender, they will not suspect me no matter what has happened."

His resolve was clear.

The hunter leaves the backroom, resuming his hunt in the large city.
There was a presence nearby, something dark, not of this world... Arakesh moved in that direction at once, finding himself in front of a local bar...

Rukyzai stood leaning against a wall, looking calmly over the carnage. He moved away from the bullet-ridden wall and walked over to the vampire whimpering on the floor with what amounted to a sigh.

"What trash is this? Can you not kill? Of all the unliving..." He said in disgust.

The phantom walked slowly to the nearest wall and dragged the strange blade along the wall, creating a crimson rift.

"I am going to find that dark creature." He explained, looking over his shoulder at the forms of Lerathin and Liz together for a brief moment.

His eyes narrowed, before he melted into the grim abyss and it snapped out of existiance behind him.

The incessant sound of the choppers rotors were like a pleasurable music to the Downed mech pilot on his way back to the local dundaine base. Alexander Kaduk was his name. Underneath the 4 Chopper flight group was his broken mech. I wonder what will become of me? thought Alex.
Will I get a new mech?, wait for mine to be fixed?, or perhaps i will be given a D-17 and sent to the lines. NO I will not die on the ground helpless like that. Upon arrival at the base the Commanding officer wanted to talk to him.

General: Come in son.

Kaduk: Yes sir.

General: The loss of one of these mechs is a great cost to repair please first Name and Rank.

Kaduk: Alexander Kaduk 1st Lieutenant 3rd Mech Corps

General: Thank you now take a seat and tell me what happened.

Kaduk: Ok sir it was 2000 hrs and we were 2 clicks northwest of the city of kadursk. During a minor skirmish with light guerrilla forces a bullet struck the coolant valve on my mech and another on a hydrolic pump line.

General: Ok soldier I was an infantry back in my fighting days so your going to have to explain this in easier terms.

Kaduk: Ok i got shot a pipe burst i fell down and got to hot eh?

General: That i can understand!!!

Kaduk: (sigh)

________________________________________________________

Romanov: All units return to town you are on leave until the end of the week stay in groups and keep weapons on you.

Everyone: Yes sir.

OOC: I dont mind, As long as you didnt made me jumped off a cliff :D . And sorry bout my large post before but it got way out of hand when all I wanted for him to do was wake up. :wink:

IC: "As you wish, Old one. Why do you call me the shining one though?", Lerathin smiled as he cradled Liz in his arms. And how did Liz see my grandfather? That means she's..., he gazed at her with renewed wonder.

Old blood sings to old blood

"I am going to find that dark creature", A ghostly voice called from behind him and Lerathin's thought was lost as he turned to see this phantasm in front of a portal of sorts.

Another undead! Great, but as long as it is friendly..

Lerathin nodded in appreciation as it disappeared into the portal. He stood up and shielded Liz with his camo cloak. "Vampire, I think it is time we leave here", Lerathin called to the mumbling creature.

Looking at Max solemnly Lerathin intoned, "Be safe and prosperous Max", as he left towards the door.

Turning to the vampire, he asked, "I never did find out your name vamp...creature".

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

OOC: SORRY IVE BEEN AWAY AND HAVNT POSTED IN A WHILE, I AM KINDA AT A BLOCK, MORDORIANS, MAYBE IF YOU COULD HANDLE THE NEXT MEETING BETWEEN THRAND AND THE GENERAL, OD HAVE SOMETHING TO WORK WITH. THANKS

OOC: Long posts are fine by me Elvarin, I enjoy reading!

OOC: Iron Wallouby - welcome back. When your chap returns to Kadursk he'll find that Thrand has been the victim of an assassination attempt, a sniper with a railgun has blown a hole in him and trashed his armoured limo. He's survived but barely and the town is in the middle of a security alert like you wouldn't believe with armoured cars, troopers etc running around like maniacs. Did you see the post earlier about the decimated village? It should be 2 or 3 pages back...

OOC: I'll try to get some posting in at lunchtime, but now, work beckons like a big beckoning thing...

OOC: When you say lunch, do you mean MY bedtime? :lol:

OOC: Sorry i hvnt posted for a while Im in RS at the moment!

Malk stands up, his overcoat drenched in tears, he draws his sword and walks into a pool of sunlight, his skin burns and melt off the bone.

"This is for the best"

He smiles

"Perhaps now, I can see.....Emmile"

OOC: Blimey! See you later Malk!

OOC: Elvarin- yes you're probably right, bedtime/lunchtime etc. Unfortunately most of my lunch hour was taken up with a meeting so little time to get on the web.

OOC: Jeez, what a way to go...It was nice knowing you Malk!

IC: Lerathin watched in astonishment as he was powerless to help the vampire, dying before his eyes. He was suprised to feel sadness at the passing of an undead. Holding Liz tightly, he turned back towards the back way and stepped out.

May you know true peace at last. I never did know your name......

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

There was a tension on the streets, rare in Kadursk. Armoured troopers stamped everywhere, their heavy boots beating out a threatening cadence that dominated the normal rhythms of the city. Black helicopters bearing the symbols of the Former Mordorian army hovered over the open squares and roadways of Kadursk, metal dragonflies awaiting their prey.

Everywhere the whispers.

Terrorists, revolutionaries, assassins. Captain Thrand murdered, no, wounded. Sniper. Elves, ghosts, mechwarriors.

No one had the whole story, but the hints were clear. Someone was to blame, and the Former Mordorians were ready to tear Kadursk apart to find the culprit.

Ducking into a darkened alley to avoid the patrols, Lerathin knew that they were hunting him and any poor sod who stand in their way. It seems I have angered someone important, he mused as another patrol passed him by. But until the incident at the bar, I have dont nothing to warrant such actions

Looking down into his arms, Liz was still unconsious and Lerathin was getting very worried. I must get to the Aelosian delegation, but I cant carry her there. Nor will I leave her, he determined fiercely.

Leaning into her ear, he whispered, "Liz, please wake up. You just have to wake up..."

http://www.msnusers.com/mypicture?user=4263~5AAAAAAAbCSrSPIXs9vMf6cXZqiy3ekdb1F!yFP3uQfTBDuONJYvKG8Q$$~5AAAAAAAcEPzjjEpdrnbR MEDxyvMAeRziXiFB2NlEEQFY$
Counselor Lerathin Thoritas Of Foreign Affairs
Of The House Of Tel Shavas

Her body exhausted, battered and bleeding from the assault earlier in the evening, from fighting off the nerve toxin, from the skirmish at Cody's and from the devastating draining presence of the enemy captain, Liz remained limp and unconscious.

While Lerathin knew nothing of the exertions that had led to this, he could tell she was unlikely to wake up very soon, and would probably need medical attention.



Somewhere beyond the fields we know, a place not of memory but akin to memory, a place that once was, and yet never had been, Liz stood in the sunlight.

Smooth white marble beneath her slippered feet, satin the robe around her, long and free her hair. To the west the sun set slowly over the hills beyond the river.

Resting her hands upon the marble of the parapet, breathing clean air as far below the workers of the city toiled, prospered and lived.

Behind her, wise presence, a gentle hand upon a shoulder. Priestess.

'Always here, my lady of Temrin, here upon the roof of the world.'
'Not the world, wise one, merely the temple of All Lights.'
'All things that are, are lights. So here we stand above all things.'

Laughter and wordplay, a lifetime away, before guns, and knives and shrapnel, and harsh bestial speech defiling the ear and the mouth.

'You should go below, my lady of Temrin, your guardsman seeks you.'
'The Castellan knows I am safe, what harm can fall upon me here above all lights, above all things?'

A shadow, ambiguous, deceptive, kneeling between the statuary, between the wings of the spirits; a man, a rifle, kneeling, aiming.

Gone.

'What startled you child?" the old woman, anxious.
'A ghost'
'Ghosts are stories untold, songs unsung. They cannot harm the living.'

'But can a story once told become untold?'

The setting sun dipped below the hills, the night had come.