NationStates Jolt Archive

Since the news of the attack on Thrand was made public, Sir Henry has remained in his embassy along with all his diplomatic staff, though he has sent an official message expressing his concern to the Former Modorians.

Unknown to everyone though, one member of the Hendinian embassy is not within the compound. Jack Stryker has been stalking the streets alleys and rooftops since the crisis began, keeping his ear to the street.

"Something is rotten here." JAck decided as he witnessed the violent soldiers that passed for a police force kicking in doors and dragging out people who were obviously civilians, and unarmed. Trying to stay professional though he kept himself unseen as he moved through the city.

His professionalism gave way though after seeing a group of troopers beating an unarmed young man and woman for no apparent reason. Five of the thugs kicking them and hitting them with the butts of their rifle.

"I shouldn't do this." Jack thought to himself, but his instincts as a good soldier were revolted by this cowardly assault and something in the trooper's demeanour disgusted him beyond reason. He dropped from a low overhanging roof near the soldiers, a pistol in one hand and a knife in the other.
"If you're so damned brave why not take on an armed opponent?" JAck yelled, opening fire and dropping the nearest two men instantly.

((One quick question. Does that strange thing that attacked the bar have a soul? Because Rukyzai has a Soulrazor grafted into his arm, and Soulrazors do, um, bad things to souls. :wink: ))

Rukyzai blinked back into the material realm inside the ancient, ravaged temple, where the Max human had told him to go at dusk. He blinked once, slightly confused. The phantom should had been drawn to the thing that escaped from the bar. That dark, powerful being would surely be useful to the Cabal. But now he was here in the dusty temple, forgotten long ago.

'There must be some reason I am here...' He thought, feeling the Guide within him searching for a reason as well.

AHHHHHHHHHHH screams were coming from the people running through the street. One stopped to talk to romanov.

"THRAND WAS SHOT!!!!"

Romanov: What the FUCK!!!

Something is not right, Lerathin gazed at the still unmoving form of Liz and knew that he had to get her to an apothecary.

Lifting her up, he peered around the corner. The streets were oddly silent other than the continuos noises of patrols his keen elven ears seemed to sensed.

Covering them both with his camo cloak, he began his search for the local apothercary, cursing himself for not studying the layout of the city before hand. They are usually located in wealthier areas of cities, was the logical thought that formed in his mind. But then again, this city is highly illogical, he smiled.

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

OOC: The thing in the bar's soul... sort of. It probably "reads" as having a soul, but it's not all that straightforward. Sorry to be cryptic, things may become clearer.

IC:

In the temple, Rukyzai became suddenly aware of a human presence, frightened, trying to remain unseen among the shattered pillars, cracked paving and obscene scrawled graffiti.

A man, tall and brawny, but moving in a fearful hunched manner, his eyes unfocussed with terror, like an animal caught in a snare after the will to tear free has been exhausted.

Rukyzai could tell, instantly, that he was not the only source of this human's fear.

The man looked like a capable warrior, his clothes rough and sturdy, his hands massive and scarred, long curved knives curled down from his belt. Yet he cringed on the floor like a whipped dog.

To Romanov:

The city of Kadursk was like an armed camp, with heavily armoured Mordorian troopers swarming across the streets, kicking in doors and making arrests. They ignore the Dundainian troops (OOC: Unless you attract their attention in some way of course) and concentrate on rounding up known troublemakers.

More rumours will come Romanov's way. Thrand was shot on his way to visit an elven diplomat, and an elf made rifle was used to make the shot. It nearly killed him but he has been taken to a secret hospital location somewhere within Kadursk. The Mordorian troops are here in reaction to the attack on their officer.

To Hendinia:

Two of the troopers died under Jack's opening salvo, and a third fell dead as he charged. A fourth scooped up the whimpering form of the man he was beating and, using the man as a shield, charged at Jack slamming him into the wall with the hapless victim screaming in pain at being caught in the middle.

The remaining two soldiers, seizing the moment circled in either direction to come at Jack from both sides. The warrior who had body slammed Stryker snarled in his face:

"Scum terrorist is it then? Such a game we will have with you."

Lerathin's eyes spotted a grimy white sign bearing the green caduceus symbol common to apothecaries. The shop that bore it had metal shuttered windows, and the sign above it read simple Hendry. The door was unlocked and the room beyond cluttered with medical junk.

It looked like a pawn shop for a struggling hospital. Rubber tubes draped over an X Ray machine, like nylon stockings over a shower rail. Unopened paper packages of dressings tottered in uneasy stacks around the floor where Lerathin walked.

A movement alerted the elf to the presence of another person.

Leaning unsteadily against the frame of an internal doorway stood a portly middle aged man, unshaven, wearing an open necked checked shirt and grey slacks. His feet were bare.

"What the blistering hell is this? I'm closed damn you, closed for business."

Then he saw the unconscious and injured woman Lerathin was carrying.

"Patients?" A brown grin split the man's face. "Well that's different, I'm Doctor Hendry, at your service. Pop the little lady down and we'll see what we can do for her. Obviously she's a junkie, do you have any idea what she's taken? Worst case I ever saw was a hooker who'd taken to grinding down the shells of cockroaches and snorting them, she claimed it gave her a sense of enormous well being. Killed her in the end, but then again it kills us all in the end."

He paused, shuffling closer.

"You are insured I take it?"

OOC:Im back lunch break yippee.

Malk screams in pain and launches himself out of the sun

"ungh.... I can't even kill myself... perhaps Im not brave enough to do anything in this world anymore."

He walks out the door, noticing the sun he keeps to the shadows and alleyways. Wary of armoured troops he moves slowly, following the scent of his elf friend, perhaps I can stay with her for a while, he thought. He scampers down the alleyway feeling his inhuman regeneration starting.

"I can always stop others doing wrong."

He finally comes into an alleyway, that smells if drugs and...blood.

"They are here"

He fades into the shadows.

"I can say boo! Or sumthin.... Hehe I am sneeky."

The young hunter enters the bar, katana held in both hands in a high ready stance.

"What has happened here?"

He asks, taking note of the many bodies strewn about the floor of the pub.

Max turned wearily to face the newcomer, his expression one of resignation.

A reptile with a sword. It's been a helluva night.

"There was a disagreement about the bill," he said. "Then the elf, the vampire and the SWAT team turned up. What can I get you?"

Max turned wearily to face the newcomer, his expression one of resignation.

A reptile with a sword. It's been a helluva night.

"There was a disagreement about the bill," he said. "Then the elf, the vampire and the SWAT team turned up. What can I get you?"

With his camo cloak still about him, Lerathin answered, roughening his voice, "If you mean if I can pay you, then yes".

He saw what looked like an operating table that wasnt very well maintained , but set her down anyway. I am out of options, Lerathin apologzied mentally to Liz.

"I dont know what ails her but if you can somehow help her, I will reward you handsomely", and he pulled out a heavy pouch and dropped it on the table with a loud thump. A very loud thump.

"You accept payment in gold I take it?"

Lerathin continued quietly, "But if you betray my trust...", he unseathed part of his sword and was suprised to see it glow with blue fire.

An undead, he groaned quietly. Well then, I am having a badnight

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

All Personnell report to the airfield for emergency muster!!! Said romanov over the radio.

Romanov: We will be assisting the Mordorian troops I will be speaking with there leader and see what we can do.

Romanov(to officers): men i want those men lined up in ranks and the mechs armed and fueled and the tanks ready to go.

Officers: Right away.

Romanov: Good now go!

Officers: Aye Sir.

Doctor Hendry sniffed noisily, and blew his nose on a grimy handkerchief as he shambled over to the operating table. Liz, beautiful in her repose, looked very out of place amid the debris and detritus of this place.

Hendry looked up at Lerathin, grinning through watery eyes, then wheeled over a bulbous looking scanner mounted on wheels, positioning it over Liz's face and yanking at a clumsy lever on its side. A dull yellow light spread over her features and she moaned in her sleep.

"She's had a rough night, Tinkerbell," said Hendry, "but I've seen worse. One time I was called out to this car wreck, just outside a strip club. Seems the driver of this bus had been drinking drain cleaner earlier and he was absolutely convinced that tiny monkeys were burrowing out of his long bones..."

Lerathin's glare cut off Hendry's diatribe, and the doctor turned away.

"I need to fetch some stimulants to get her back on her feet. Excuse me and, if you're squeamish don't kick any of the rubble on the surgery floor."

Hendry shambled away through the door he had entered by and quietly dialled a number on an old plastic phone glued to the wall.

"You there? Hendry. You'll never believe who has just walked through my door."

Acting non-chalantly, Lerathin gazed about himself in curiuosity though his keen ears perked up at the sound of Hendry communicating with someone. If this is a trap, his face harderned but he determined that until something untowards or hostile happened to him by the doctor, he wont cause any harm. But no harm must befall Liz!

However he was still waiting for the undead to show up, his hand straying close to his sword. This night is has not gone to plan at all

Lerathin felt his six hundred years heavily tonight, wishing he was just a simple soldier. But there is still the fact that Hendry might be reporting us in, looking towards the doorway that the doctor went through, he was determined to ask him about his little chat....

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

Hendry, having finished his conversation, lurched back into the makeshift surgery and with surprising gentleness moved Liz’s head from side to side.

“Not a junkie at all then,” he drawled, “I can usually tell you see, decades of treating the lowest of the low gives me an instinct for what appetites consume a person, and this woman is not consumed by an appetite for anything that grows out of the ground or gets cooked up in a lab. Her addictions are very different indeed, the monkey on her back is a different creature altogether.”

He handed Lerathin a small glass syringe, the needle sheathed in a green plastic tube.

”This is a little booster,” Hendry confided, “perfectly safe but with a kick like an angry pimp. It’ll get her back on her feet long enough for you to find a place to hide out. I assume you’re on the run. You have the look of a fugitive. But get her out of here before you slip it to her, she would not appreciate waking in my company.”

Looking over the syringe, he merely nodded his thanks and place it within his clothes. Lerathin moved and picked Liz up once again in his arms, leaving the pouch on the table. But he wasnt leaving just yet.

"Would she know you? And who were you talking to before", Lerathin enquired politely. However, his body was noticably tense. And there is still the matter of the undead....

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

“Oh we know each other my undying friend, we know each other. Though not, I hasten to add, in the Biblical sense. Let us simply say that our paths have crossed in the past and not always in the best of circumstances. Although my vocation is that of an angel of mercy, I find there is more call these days for the attentions of someone with less than angelic morals and a good line in combat medicine. Especially,” Hendry indicated Liz, “for those with an outgoing approach to life.”

He escorted Lerathin to the door.

”Be careful on the streets tonight, try not to happen to anyone.”

Those answers will just have to do, as he peered about for signs of hostile patrols. He turned back to the man and nodded his thanks once again and moved off into the darkness.

Must get to the Aelosian residence, was the thought that flitted through his mind. He managed to climb unto the rooftops even with a body in his arms and proceeded to lay her down.

This drug better work, eventhough he had some misgivings about ejecting her with a substance Lerathin had no idea what it contained. I am desperate and know not what to do. My trust better be right in this, and he injected her with the syrum.

Now, I wait...

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

…he did not have to wait for long.

No sooner was the plunger of the needle depressed than Liz sat bolt upright, a look of horror in her eyes, her mouth open in a silent scream.

She rolled onto her side shuddering, almost convulsing, as the stimulant tore through her system. It took a few minutes for the initial shock to wear off. Instinct and long harsh experience ensured that she remained silent throughout.

Finally the effects subsided and she groaned, looking up at Lerathin.

“That was one of Hendry’s tonics wasn’t it?” she muttered. “Unmistakeable. How on earth did you drive off that creature?”

She paused, thinking.

“No, I’m being foolish. We can talk later.” She stood up, bracing herself against the parapet of the roof. “We need to get to a safe house. Do you know of one?”

Lerathin shooked his head but smiled immediately as he was very glad to have her back in the realm of the living.

"No I dont, but do you?", he queried.

He took her hand and helped her up gently, "We must move quickly. The Aelosians must know of this happenings so that a proper responce can be meted out for this government's use of a dark one".

Looking about him, he threw his senses out and tried to detect any danger for their stay up on the rooftops. None for now.. "But I doubt we can get there with all the patrols moving about. You liv..do you know of a way to get to them?"

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

"They've given them the old Cullen mansion," Liz responded. "It's not too far away from here, due east across toward the Great Circle. They'll be watching the grounds of course."

She glanced down toward street level, then back at Lerathin.

"But that won't be too much of a problem for either of us. I could do with collecting some more ammunition but that's not a priority now- if I get in a situation where I need it, things are already in the hole. Thanks for getting me to Hendry. He's a weasel, but he hates them more than most."

"We'll wait for that half track to move, then we'll hit the streets."

He nodded and readied himself for action, all the while sensing for danger. But in the mean time, a curious thought crossed his mind and Lerathin gathered up the courage to ask her, "Liz, when I was close by and in danger in the bar, you wouldnt happen to have sensed me did you?"

"Because it seems that I have developed an ability to know where you are. And", he continued, "to know if you are in danger".

Well thats close to the truth. Soul bonding is not a thing you would want to tell a human. They might take it badly. But I never heard of it happening without the knowledge of both 'participants' and let alone a human, he grimaced within.

Leaning over the edge of the roof, the half-track was about to move. "Can you tell me if you feel a sort of 'link' connecting us?". Lerathin mentally smacked himself in the head for the not so subtle question. How would she take it if she knew...

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

---
A link…

A lifetime away, in a life that never was, a life before things changed and always had been, a young woman walked quietly weeping from a magnificent hall, away from the music that would never leave her, not even when the darkness overcame all the world.

“Elizabeth?” a strong but gentle voice disturbed her quiet sorrow. “Are you unwell?”
“No father,” she managed to smile, “but that song is so sad, how can anyone bear to hear it?”
“It is sad.” The older man agreed, “but it is also a song worth hearing. A song of elder days, and full of wisdom.”

They stood unspeaking for a few moments, the man’s arm around his daughter’s shoulder as they looked across the moonlit silvered edges of the gardens. The faint strains of music could still be heard.

”She gave up so much.” Elizabeth spoke of the maiden in the song, abandoning the glories of her people to share in a brief spark of life with her mortal paramour.
“She thought it worthy, and he was a worthy fellow.”

Elizabeth shook her head. “He should have denied her, given a moment’s sorrow in an eternal life, rather than accept her love and destroy her.”
”She thought it worthy.” Her father repeated. But he knew his daughter was stubborn.

Years ago.

Liz turned to Lerathin and looked him straight in the eyes.

“I didn’t feel anything,” she said without emotion. “let’s make a move.”

Lerathin sighed mentally, as he joined her on their trip down, moving silently as they prepared to cross the street. He signaled to her that he would go first since he had a camo cloak. Does she know or doesnt she?, the thought was calling impertinently.

He searched within himself, and knew there was a link but he dared not questioned her any further. Better for it to die with me, Lerathin smiled sadly, Or with her. I am an immortal, and I am tied to a mortal woman

His hand still close to his sword, he peered around a corner before signalling for her to approach him. No, better for her if I should die so that we are both free from this link. And Lerathin was determined for it to be him, he had a long and...fulfilling life.

As she came towards him, he noticed her in a light that he wouldnt have shown to any of his race. Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, he asked her, "Where to now? Do you know of any back ways to the residence?"

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

“Plenty.” She smiled grimly, not meeting his gaze now, convinced that the lie she had told him would be visible. “We’ll have to break out of the back-streets and cover the last few hundred yards across open grounds. No problem. Let’s just hope these Aelosians aren’t trigger happy about strangers.”

They moved with silent speed through the narrow sidestreets and alleys of the city, dodging between the patrols and armoured vehicles that now filled the streets.

”It looks like those Dundaine commandos are helping with the house to house,” she said incredulously. “How the hell did They get those on board? No matter, if anyone can turn people to their ends it’s the Mordorians.”

Leave him, leave him, leave him now before you doom him, selfish, selfish woman.

“Stick close,” she said, hating herself, “the next bit could be tricky.”

A squad of a dozen Mordorian troopers had taken up a post in the open parkland behind the Aelosian embassy. Alert, heavily armed, standing in and around a half tracked APC.

"How shall we get past those guards?", he asked her.

You're an elf Lerathin. You can make it but what about her, and he looked at this human female that he has grown protective of and debated within himself if he should let her make the attempt. A few hundred yards is alot to cover.... He dared not leave her alone.

By what reasons should I not though.

His own distorted voice came back at him, Because you are a great worrier when simple solutions are easy to be found. And you are also in love with this mortal. The revelation stunned him.

Suddenly he realised that this plan might fail and end in anguished disaster for both of them. Lerathin grabbed her arm, "Liz, the risks are far too high. You and I know we cant dodge bullets in an open field. Is there another way?", he implored her.

"If there is none, well", he looked into her eyes, "then I will gladly follow you into hell".

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

That song is so sad, how can anyone bear to hear it?

"you already did" she said quietly.

"The other route is longer- it takes us into the heart of the city, there may be other patrols. I leave the choice to you, my lord."

OOC: what if i were to say 'I am going to bed' :wink: . Later. Cya tomorrow. Where the hell are the other posters?

Stryker lashed out at the trooper that had body slammed him, catching the man on his throat, exposed under the jaw of his helmet. When the man fell stunned, Stryker fired a volley of shots at the trooper's oncoming allies, dropping them. Without a second's hesitation he then emptied his clip into the stunned trooper at his feet.

"Get the hell out of here," Jack roared at the couple who had been involved. The woman supported the man on her shoulder as they staggered away.

Jack continued searching the city, trying to get a handle on what was going on.

At length he came upon an open area, and froze, spotting an armoured vehicle surrounded by more of the Former Mordorian troopers. As he was debating whether to circle away from them, or engage them he took a quick count of their numbers and decided that discretion was the better part of valour (or "discretion was the better part of Valerie" as Sir Henry often joked) and took a detour. The Hendinian embassy was not too far away, so it was his intention to get back there and report in.

((Stupid school system. Actually giving us work. Ugh.))

Rukyzai stared down at the ruined man before him with harsh unblinking eyes.

"What is this?" He asked, his voice reflecting the emotionless of his face.

His wrist twitched, sending a shimmer of blue up his blade. No compassion for the inefficient.

after returning to the comfort of his base, the genral dispatched a few squads into the city to moniter things and one to begin touring the city sewwage system, he decided that he needed a new highway.....

Rame burst out of nowhere to the middle of a busy street. He frowned. This didn't look like his destination at all.
He jumped as a cart ((car?)) swerved around him. The driver produced a stream of profanity.
Ramos Seral moseyed to the sidewalk. He set his hands in his pockets and sighed. At least this time he'd brought his sword with him...

((OOC: OK, this looks fun, further RP restrained until I get a further feel of what's going on.))

OOC: Roseway...you could always read the topic.... :D . And Hendinia...will get back at you soon enough. But why on earth are you helping us? Knowing the topic is not the same as your character knowing why we are there. And why are u helping us? Escpecially when I have a camo cloak.. :wink:

OOC: Sorry didn't realise about the camocloak - does this make you invisible? If so I'll edit my post into oblivion. As to why help you, it was more a case of oppose the Modorians. Pretend I was never there...

OOC: you could still be a diversion, is just that you wont notice us.. and no the lady is not invisble.

OOC: Well im invisible, but thats for secific reasons!

Ramos stares in disbelief as a robed character appears in the seat behind him.

"Excuse me. Could you see if the sun is shining, its just it would probaly hurt if I checked!

He turns toward you, under his mask you know he is smiling.

"I'm Malkav by the way, second name Content."

OOC: Im not sure whats going on either, but best keep playimg, or youll never know!!!

Max turned wearily to face the newcomer, his expression one of resignation.

A reptile with a sword. It's been a helluva night.

"There was a disagreement about the bill," he said. "Then the elf, the vampire and the SWAT team turned up. What can I get you?"

"Hist, if you have it."

OOC: Thursdays are rough days for me, I have no time to post anything. Tuesdays are the same way. Wednesday and Friday are the only days I actually have time to do any serious RP'ing.

CODY's BAR

Max smiled and nodded at the reptilian visitor.

"You're in luck...sir? We have the very finest Hist brought here at great expense direct from source, stored using the greatest care to ensure it's exactly as it should be."

He paused, head on one side, thinking.

"Actually now I come to think about it, we sold the last of the Hist yesterday evening to a party of travellers with a real thirst for it. I can offer you ale, wine or brandy."

(Max relaxed somewhat by being able to fall back on one of his favourite jokes)

ON THE EDGE OF THE AELOSIAN EMBASSY

Liz braced herself.

"You can get through," she said to Lerathin in a barely audible whisper. "with your elven cloak they will not see you. We evaded the patrols on the night we met in that same way."

Both knew that crossing open ground would be dangerous even with the Camo Cloak. Liz went on:

"I'll provide the distraction. I'll get to the embassy as soon as I can, wait for me there."

To Lerathin's horror she began to move away from their concealment.

TO RAME:

You'll probably quickly get the idea that effectively martial law is being imposed on this city tonight. Panicked citizenry, stormtroopers storming (and trooping), lots of stamping feet and heavy weaponry. Helicopters combing the city skies with searchlights down onto the ground, that sort of thing. Apparently the local police chief has been assassinated (or very nearly) and the assassin and his terrorist allies are being sought. Have a quick glance through some earlier posts to pick up the plot, get to know the characters, and then join in to your heart's content! Welcome to Kadursk.

TO THE HENDINIANS/JACK STRYKER

OOC: Cool name btw, very 'action hero'

While Jack is mentally deciding whether to skirt around the troopers or not, he will probably see Liz move out of cover (near the invisible Lerathin of whom you know nothing as yet I believe). It is likely she will be seen by the troopers within seconds.


TO THE IRON WALLOUBY GENERAL:

Your squads will quickly report back in about the chaotic state of the city at the moment - the copters, the troopers, the random arrests etc. They report that it may be a good night to keep the armed men out of sight... though you Walloubys are expert at that I believe! If however you want them to keep a low profile and keep looking for the sewers that's fine.

Arakesh shakes his head.

"I have sampled this 'brandy' in the past, and found it did not contain the kick that hist does. Perhaps you have seen a companion of mine, a female human who others call 'Liz'?"

Max showed no reaction.

"It's a common enough sort of name," Max said. "Knew a stripper called Liz once. Did an act with an electrical fan and a set of paper streamers. Is that her? She never mentioned anyone... like you though."

What a night! Max thought again Spectral visitors asking to contact the underground and now this! The darkness beyond the wall is bringing all this chaos to the surface.

"Ehm. I see something in that direction", said one of the guards, looking at Liz.

"Yes, I see something, we should gave a warning", answered the other guard.

"They don't speak Sindarin. We should fire a warning round", said the first one shaking his head.

"And waste ammo?. I have just a few clips. Better to approach him in a stealthy manner. Did you brought your Ellösar invisibility cloak?".

"No, it was too heavy, and I don't thought we were going to need it".

The guard just looked at the sky rolling his eyes and shouted in Sindarin "Hey, you, identify yourself!, this is international Aelosian property. Go away or I'll put a beam through your forehead", as he yelled the another guard aimed with his rifle at the figure who was moving towards them.

The young woman dropped the deadly thing from nerveless fingers. She had heard, everyone had heard, about how an immortal assassin had been brought into the city and had tried to kill Thrand.

Heaven knows, Thrand was not a good man. She shuddered as she recalled the way he had fumbled over her in the elevator; but to be struck down by an assassin...

And the Former Mordorians, the people from beyond the wall, had responded in force as was proper. Their troops tore the city apart seeking the terrorist who had unleashed (attempted) death upon her countryman using a fearsome elvish weapon.

This weapon. It was unmistakeable. Sleek elvish design which, she knew from her Intelligence Corps briefing, could slay silently at enormous range. The railgun lay on the floor by the side of the plush bed.

She had intended to surprise her lover with her presence here. Instead she had found... this thing.

She moved, heart pounding, too scared even to replace the rifle where she had discovered it, to the door at a run. Yanking it open-

Face to face with him.

"Well hello my dear," Rory smiled. "Diana isn't it? And..."

His smile faded as he saw the butt of the railgun visible by the end of the bed.

"What the hell have you done?" he hissed, more menacing than ever his raised voice could be.

Terrified, Diana let loose an earsplitting scream and lashed out at Count Stelltor, catching him off guard and sending him stumbling away from her. Acting on the instant she pushed past him and sprinted away through the carpeted halls of the residence.

"No, damn you!" Rory called, his hand instinctively going to his holster. "Don't run down there you silly b*tch!"

He raced after her, cavalry boots pounding on the floor as he covered the ground. Diana hurtled round a corner out of his line of sight, but he knew the corridor met the stairs into the Crimson Gallery there.

She screamed again, and suddenly fell silent.

As Rory turned the corner he saw why, and he sagged against the near wall, his pistol falling to his side.

Diana's body lay curled, pale and dead on the floor at the foot of a figure of living darkness.

~the woman would have betrayed us. you should be more careful in your choice of paramour~

"Well m'lord," Rory said with forced joviality, "it's hard to keep track of all of them d'ye see?"

Diana you silly little fool, why did you run?

A man enters the bar. He cuts an imposing figure, standing at 6'2" and looking to weigh around 280lbs. The man is dressed simply, with grey fatigue-like pants, a black t-shirt, and combat boots. An AMT Hardballer sits under his left arm, in a shoulder holster. Under the barrel is a Smith and Wesson SWAT-edition folding knife. He is handsome, in a severe fashion, with harsh blue eyes and light brown hair in a short military style.
Several clips for his handgun are strapped to his belt. A .45 caliber Glock sub-compact is situated in bootlace holster, concealed under the baggy legs of the man's pants.

"He's talkin' about that girl that ran outta here with that elf fella..."

The man crosses to the bar, leaning over it to whiper something to the bartender.

"An' lay off the jokes, Argonians ain't known for their sense of humor."

He steps back, taking a seat at the bar.

A man enters the bar. He cuts an imposing figure, standing at 6'2" and looking to weigh around 280lbs. The man is dressed simply, with grey fatigue-like pants, a black t-shirt, and combat boots. An AMT Hardballer sits under his left arm, in a shoulder holster. Under the barrel is a Smith and Wesson SWAT-edition folding knife. He is handsome, in a severe fashion, with harsh blue eyes and light brown hair in a short military style.
Several clips for his handgun are strapped to his belt. A .45 caliber Glock sub-compact is situated in bootlace holster, concealed under the baggy legs of the man's pants.

"He's talkin' about that girl that ran outta here with that elf fella..."

The man crosses to the bar, leaning over it to whiper something to the bartender.

"An' lay off the jokes, Argonians ain't known for their sense of humor."

He steps back, taking a seat at the bar.

AT THE AELOSIAN EMBASSY

OOC: Who is it the guards are approaching/challenging? Liz is likely to be moving away in order to draw the guards. However, whoever their challenge was aimed at...

IC:

A searchlight from the top of the APC swung to cover the Aelosian guards, dazzling them for the merest of instants until their eyes adapted to the sudden glare.

Several of the armoured troopers shambled over toward the elvish guards. Their leader, a squat human with corporals' stripes painted on the outside of his chestplate snarled at the nearest elf.

"Well well well, what do you think you are doing, elf boy?" the brutish creature chortled. "What can those little guns do? We're here to protect you now, your precious little embassy. Believe you me, we own this building and we own you."

He snapped his fingers in the elf's face.

"And pretty damn soon we'll have all your terrorist friends in custody and howling for death. How do you like those onions?"

AT CODY's BAR

Billy Monk stepped gingerly over the debris and the bodies on the floor of the bar. He was a chubby man with a mop of dark hair and a suit that was as out of date as his routine. In his hand he clutched a small leather folder.

He looked around at the wreckage, at Max (new scars), at the Argonian and at the dangerous looking mercenary.

"Ayup Max," he said, a chirpy air to his voice, "had the women's institute bingo again? Fiery them women, fiery."

"Oh you're all I need right now," Max said, rolling his eyes.

"No, what you need right now Maxie, is to remember our contract. I'm booked to perform tonight." Billy moved toward the far end of the bar and looked in horror at the smashed wooden platform that was now spread across the floor.

"Where's the stage?" he shrilled, "where's the bloody stage gone?"

"Billy, now is not a good time," said Max with quiet desperation.

"I can do it from here." Billy responded. "Evening ladies and gentlemen, what a good evening it is and all. Right. There was this lizard, this mercenary and this comedian in a bar.... get it? Eh? Get it?"

Max looked apologetically at the patrons.

The new arrival pantomimes shooting himself in the head.

Max nodded in agreement.

In the background, Billy Monk continued with his act.

"This dyslexic walks into a bra. Gettit? Eh? A bra? Dyslexic, get it?"

Max ignored him.

"Look guys," he said to the new arrival and to the reptilian hunter. "You might have noticed tonight is not a good night, and not just because of that comedian. The last thing I want to do is go talking about the wrong things to the wrong people. Now, if you want to make yourselves useful, you can get these bodies out into the street, and then maybe we can talk. The drinks are on me if you do."

Max nodded at the newcomers waiting for their response.

Oblivious to the lack of interest, Billy chirped on:

"These two dyslexics sat in their front room. One says 'Can you smell anything funny?' and the other one says 'Don't be stupid, I can't even smell my own name."

No one laughed.

OOC: They were signaling at Liz...

IC:

The elven guard just took a deep breath before speaking to the bulky human. "You do that again, and I'll rip out your heart, scum. At least I know who my mother is, unlike you. Don't wave your hand in front of me unless you want a nice laser beam go through your empty skull". Although his words were harsh and defiant, his voice was calmed and quiet.

He continued, in his eyes a red flame of anger, "And well, as we spoke a full aerospace fleet, I don't know if you could understand what that means, is orbiting over us, and if something nasty happens, tomorrow this place, including your bones, will be a ruin worth of a touristic attraction".

Faster than the eyes could see, the elf dropped his rifle and put the vibroblade of his knife in the man's testicles. "And if you value your life and the lives of your men, leave this place at once. You don't own nothing, not even your own soul, I walked the earth long before you kin learned to walk in two legs".

That seemed to get the trooper's attention nicely. His squad, outraged at the elf's tone rushed forward:

"Why you-"
"Elf scum-"
"Now you'll pay-"

The corporal waved a hand urgently for them to stop. Very urgently. It looked like he was attempting to stand on tiptoe.

"No need for unp!! unpleasantness lads, misunderstandings happen."

Then to the elven guard.

"We'll be on our way now."

Though his tone was more deferential, there was something about this trooper that jarred with the elves, something unpleasant that went far beyond the crude speech and barbaric manners.

The troopers, including the corporal, beat a hasty retreat to their APC which drove swiftly away.

OOC: Assuming you let them go of course, if not I'll post-edit.

OOC: Of course they let them go, they're not looking for trouble...

IC:

The elves retreated to the safety of the House, not sure of what to do next.

"We should brief the Duchess about what happened", said the first guard, still scared by the humans.

"For what?. I know she's a noble, but she's just plain stupid, better to tell this tale to the Paelisi diplomat, he'll know how to handle it. And return to the House, they'll return, I saw that in their eyes, we should ask for reinforcements", said the older guard, turning off his knife and picking up his rifle. "Let's entrench ourselves in the house until reinforcements arrive, we are a diplomatic mission after all".

"We should call for an all-out invasion. Something is smelling rotten in this country", said the young one, checking his gun.

"Indeed, but that's not up to us to decide, but to the nobles. Until the moment arrives, we'll wait, and we'll follow orders".

Dekker grabs a body by the belt, then a second one. The mercenary opens the door with his foot, and slings the pair of bodies into the street.
Looking back, he sees that he'd be there for a while if he continued without any help.

OOC: Exactly how many people where in the bar?

((I see my post was totally ignored. Oh well, I shall just continue.))

Rukyzai grabbed the man with one shadowy claw and glared harshly at him.

"Tell me, human. Was the darkness here?!" He growled, the Soulrazor flitting along his neck, sending arcs of pain through him.

((I see my post was totally ignored. Oh well, I shall just continue.))

Rukyzai grabbed the man with one shadowy claw and glared harshly at him.

"Tell me, human. Was the darkness here?!" He growled, the Soulrazor flitting along his neck, sending arcs of pain through him.

OOC: Dude, noone has any idea who you're threatening with that enchanted butterknife, or why. You haven't posted for close to four pages.

((I see my post was totally ignored. Oh well, I shall just continue.))

Rukyzai grabbed the man with one shadowy claw and glared harshly at him.

"Tell me, human. Was the darkness here?!" He growled, the Soulrazor flitting along his neck, sending arcs of pain through him.

OOC: Dude, noone has any idea who you're threatening with that enchanted butterknife, or why. You haven't posted for close to four pages.

((I see my post was totally ignored. Oh well, I shall just continue.))

Rukyzai grabbed the man with one shadowy claw and glared harshly at him.

"Tell me, human. Was the darkness here?!" He growled, the Soulrazor flitting along his neck, sending arcs of pain through him.

OOC: Dude, noone has any idea who you're threatening with that enchanted butterknife, or why. You haven't posted for close to four pages.

Romanov still waits for orders from the mordorian government to deplot his troops.....!!!!!!((hint hint hint ))

OOC: sorry for lateness but the comp was out cold....And the sniper weapon of my empire is the rail rifle.(It aint a railgun, that takes out tanks!!! Lol)

IC: Lerathin was suprised and helpless to stop her from breaking cover. His body moved to follow her, but his logical mind overrode his wishes. Dont waste this opportunity! Get to the embasy

Gazing at her for a moment, he returned to the task at hand and moved forward towards the embassy. Lets see if I was as well trained in this as I thought I was

And crawled rapidly across the open ground, hugging natural depressions and into the darker shadows.

He was fast approaching the compound, his eyes searchin for signs of the elven guards. They can see me and hopefully they will recognise the trademark cloak of my lands. And refrain from firing at me. Or else this will be extremely hazardous, feeling the link that binds him to a mortal, I hope that foolish woman will make it....

And was suprised to see her appeared beside him, smiling vaguely.

"By the emper...", and he stopped before he could finish his sentence. She is very good at this. But he was glad that nothin happened to her.

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 to all those who feel ignored! NS has been eating so many posts and crashing so much lately that it's been a bit of a nightmare for me! I'll see if I can make up for things now...

OOC: Lerathin- the troopers have all been scared off by the Aelosians and the TTVB (testicle threatening vibro blades) - you and Liz should have a clear run up to the guards now who have already spotted Liz. By the way, if I've misnamed the Elvarin sniper weapon that's an OOC mistake- the FM Intelligence Corps would have got it right... :)

RUKYZAI:

The man you grabbed whimpers almost incoherently.

"Oh a bad day, yes indeed, for me and for everyone, a bad day, and no fine gifts or wages..."

His bloodshot eyes manage to focus on Rukyzai.

"It put its voice in my brain, right in my brain," he gabbled, "and I can still feel it there, still feel it looking out of my eyes."

Suddenly, like a hammer blow, Rukyzai feels a mental contact coming through this strange scavenger.

~declare your purpose~

DUNDAINE:

The Former Mordorian aide Maretarn has met with Romanov following the latter's return to the city.

"Things are desperate sir," he said. "Elvish assassins are at large in this city and are attempting to destabilise the whole region. Luckily we have a comprehensive list of their sympathisers and supporters."

He hands Romanov the list, it contains about a dozen names and addresses.

"We need these people off the streets by dawn." A pause. "Preferably in custody, but no one will shed any tears if they put up a fight and you have to respond in kind."

DECKER

The bar contained about a dozen bodies, mostly of the Former Mordorian armoured troopers, big armoured men. Lots of spare weaponry around too- assault rifles mainly (though some seem to have been chopped through with bladed weapons of some kind). Some patrons are among the fallen.

Living people in the bar? Max, our Argonian friend, Billy Monk and you.

Speaking of Billy Monk, his appalling comedy set is still continuing.

"This grizzly bear walks into a bar and says 'give me a glass of ....
...
...
...beer.' And the barman says, 'Why the big pause?' "

((I see my post was totally ignored. Oh well, I shall just continue.))

Rukyzai grabbed the man with one shadowy claw and glared harshly at him.

"Tell me, human. Was the darkness here?!" He growled, the Soulrazor flitting along his neck, sending arcs of pain through him.

OOC: Dude, noone has any idea who you're threatening with that enchanted butterknife, or why. You haven't posted for close to four pages.

((Well, for one thing, I haven't posted in 4 pages because no one even aknowledged my post until now, and I'm threatening some beat up warrior person FM had approach me, who does know why and who I'm threatening with my enchanted butterknife, in a storyline that really doesn't seem to concern you yet.))

Rukyzai felt the familiar throb of a mental link. This creature was powerful indeed, it's link more prominent than that of the Guide's. He let the man fall to the floor in a heap.

'My purpose is to discover yours.' He responded telepathically.

ooc: Group hug everyone, it's my fault I didn't respond - buggy server & pressure of work!

IC:

The scavenger lay in his heap on the floor, body limp but eyes still rivetted on Rukyzai. The man's mouth worked silently, bubbles of drool forming at the corners.

But the voice in Rukyzai's head was clear, strong and consuming.

~you do not question me, phantom! this is the domain of my master, the night rising, the everlasting end of all! serve my master, the all consuming, the all powerful, and you will be rewarded with power and dominion beyond the dreams of your kind. oppose us and you will be granted an eternity of longing for dissolution~

There was no hint of bravado or bluff about the mental voice. The power behind the contact was awesome, and the human conduit lying on the floor seemed to be going into a seizure simply because of that psychic touch.

~choose now and choose once~

OUTSIDE THE AELOSIAN EMBASSY

"The soldier have been scared off," whispered Liz to Lerathin, "now's our chance."

The pair made quicker time toward the Aelosian guards, ensuring they were visible to the waiting elves.

"We need to see your ambassador." Liz stated as they drew closer to the Aelosians.

One of the guards raised his rifle "In the name of Isha don't move!", said the young soldier, almost trembling, visibly scared.

The other soldier just pushed his partner's rifle away, looking at Lerathin "I have see him before. He talked to the Paelisi Lord. The ambassador is waiting for you, Sire. Please follow me, I'll take you to him. Your companion. Can she be trusted?", said the older guard, pointing at Liz.

((Heh, this will be interesting, FM, two of the most arrogant things on the planet going head to head.))

The intensity with which the trembling man's eyes were locked onto Rukyzai's unnerved him, and he shifted his sight nervously elsewhere. This overwhelming force had drown out even the Guide's symbiotic link with him.

'I serve no other than the Cabal and the Grand One at it's head. There is no other greater than us, those who walk the fine line between mortality and eternal release. Your master is false, your promises of glory naught but traps waiting to unfold. None shall oppose our rule of the shadows!' The phantom shot back vehemently.

Arakesh assists Dekker with moving the corpses into the street. Within an hour, they are done.

The Former Mordorian aide Maretarn has met with Romanov following the latter's return to the city.

"Things are desperate sir," he said. "Elvish assassins are at large in this city and are attempting to destabilise the whole region. Luckily we have a comprehensive list of their sympathisers and supporters."

He hands Romanov the list, it contains about a dozen names and addresses.

"We need these people off the streets by dawn." A pause. "Preferably in custody, but no one will shed any tears if they put up a fight and you have to respond in kind."

Right away these "people" will be taken care of.

Romanov then leaves the room and gets on his radio.

Romanov: officers i will be arriving shortly i want our forces up and ready to move.

Officers: Mechs and tanks too?

Romanov: Mechs not tanks this is an urban mission.

Officers: Roger (backround) EVERYONE GET THE HELL UP!!

Romanov: Ok also get Viktor up i need to talk to him.

Officers: Roger

Dekker slings the last body out into the street, then dusts his hands off.

"What exactly killed those folks? Didn't see any entry wounds..."

"On my life and honour", Lerathin uttered.

Turning to Liz, he murmured into her ear, "I must warn you that there is an Elven Duchess who is not a shining example of our race". Murmuring even lower so that not even elven ears could hear,"I do believe that she has devolved. But please dont offend her. Not to her face at least. Escpecially since you are a non-elf".

Returning to face the guard, "Take us to Karalis Albethil. Immediately"

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

AT THE TEMPLE

The eyes of the trapped creature never left Rukyzai's.

There was a pause of several seconds and then:

~we may have common cause, for darkness is darkness and light, light. why are you here within my master's dominion? what purpose brings you here? perhaps our common causes may be achieved in alliance~

The human vessel whimpered and soiled itself.

AT CODY's

Max handed Dekker his drink as promised, and poured a similarly stiff measure for the Argonian hunter.

"Thanks for the help, my friends, it has been a rough night." Then in a quieter voice. "There was some trouble with the authorities and some fugitives. You know how it can be. As to what killed them... well the authorities round here can get a bit extreme. My advice to you is that if you see anything more shadow than substance do not stay upon the order of your leaving, just go."

In the few seconds that followed Max's advice, the droning routine of the comedian continued in the background.

"Billy! For the sake of mercy give it a rest! There are three of us in the bar, and none of us are listening." Max yelled.

"Y' never know though do you?" Billy responded, "What if one of you is a big talent scout eh? Could be me big break."

The grizzled bartender, the heavily armed mercenary and the reptilian hunter looked back at him. None of them looked noticeably like a vaudevillian talent agent.

Billy faltered. "I'll get me coat." he suggested.

Max heaved a sigh of relief.

"Right gents, I get the feeling you're not working for Them, and you have helped me out here. No games now, how can I help you in return?"

TO ROMANOV

++coded transmission from Maretarn+++
++Proceed instantly to 612 Wheel Street++
++Three terrorist suspects, Two Male, One Female++
++Likely to be armed and dangerous++

The address on Wheel Street turned out to be a second floor apartment above an adult bookshop. Although the store was still open it was not doing much business.

There is a light on in the window of the apartment.

TO LERATHIN

"Devolved?" Liz whispered back, "How can that be possible? The shining ones are changeless."

She fell silent at the approach of the Aelosians, but drew herself up to her full height, meeting their gaze unflinchingly. Suddenly the weariness and exertions of the night seemed to leave her and she seemed for a moment as majestic as one of the ancient statues of the temple.

At Lerathin's side she felt that anything was possible.

Stryker had not got far when the Aelosian guards had their little confrontation with the thugs in armour that passed for a police force in this town. He grinned at the pointed negotiation style favoured by the elves. He also saw two strangers appearing from practically nowhere and being escorted into the embassy by the elves.

While their attention was distratced , now was a good time to get closer. Jack dropped flat on the ground and began crawling swiftly but stealthily toward the Aelosian embassy. These could be allies, or they might be enemies, the Former Modorians talked a lot about elf terrorists and while neither Jack nor Sir Henry believed that, it would be good to get evidence either way.

OOC: Jack is good at stealth but he's no elf! If you want to spot him, fine, if not he'll sneak closer and try to eavesdrop etc, having guessed that the Aelosian embassy is not much more secure than the Hendinian one which is a commandeered mansion.

"All right, Sire, please follow me", said the guard, guiding Liz and Lerathin through the hallways of the residence until they arrive to a closed door, as the guard knocked, the door opened, revealing the ancient face of the Alberthil diplomat, sitting behind an old desk.

"Lerathin, you finally arrived. Please sit down, I was waiting your report. By the way, the Duchess is missing, if she doesn't appear in the next two hours we will be forced to adopt a military action. But tell me, Who is your companion?", said the old elf, pointing at Liz.

this place? are you sure

Soldier: Of course i am

Romanov: Yes this is it...Well move in now!!!!

The squad of 15 consisted of 5 snipers posted all around the home. the rest were soldiers and there was a mech on the street outside shut down just there to radio for help if needed.


The door creaked open all the lights were off and nothing was to be heard.

(Whispering)Soldier: Maybe no one is home?

Romanov:Quiet.

The bottom floor was secured and the squad moved upstairs. Romanov opened the door and found a man passed out on the floor. Romanov walked up to him and bent over the others left the room on Romanovs signal.

A man then jumped from the closet and fired at romanov hitting him in the left arm and the "passed out" person stabbed him in the right leg. Right then 4 marines ran into the room and shot the 2. 1 was male the other was female. They were stunned nothing to be worried about. Except the obvious fact that Romanov was wounded.

After thinking for a moment, Rukyzai responded, 'This is true, and what better way for the darkness to grow than to cling together? My purpose here is, and always has been, to undermine the resistiance against your "master". Let the darkness grow, creature, come to me.'

He severed the transmission with a quick slash to the crumpled man's chest. The wound glowed crimson for a moment before bursting outwards, sending a ghostly white visage of the man shooting wildly into the sky. The phantom's Soulrazor glimmered blue with satisfaction at the merciless killing.

No mercy for the ineffecient.

I wish that was true Liz, but all must change with time, even elves. For better or worse, was the dark thought as Lerathin followed the guard. Dark elves....

They arrived at a door that opened before them and he nodded in greeting to Aberthil smiling as he said, "It is good to be amongst friends once again. This person is Elizabeth of the house of Temrin. I believe she can tell you more about the situaion exisiting in this city than can I".

Lerathin gazed into the eyes of the old diplomat, "But please, isnt a military action over a missing duchess extreme? Shouldnt you inform the government before provoking open war? The lives of elves shouldnt be squandered over something that can be resolved with a band of warriors".

Looking at Liz and back to Aberthil, he suggested, "Perhaps Liz and I could find her for you once she has debriefed you of the situation. There are more covert ways of achieving objectives instead of the huge lost of innocent civilians that such actions that you are stating will imply, even if they are non-elves".

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

AT THE AELOSIAN EMBASSY

Liz bowed formally to the older elf.

"My lord," she began, "if your duchess is missing in Kadursk then she is in great danger. The city is hazardous even at the best of times, and tonight all hell's broken loose out there."

She turned to Lerathin, "you can bring this great lord up to date if you wish, but I would not desire my greatest enemy to be lost in Kadursk tonight. If we can find her we should."

Inwardly she was thinking. 'Military action? And how many of my people would die if the Aelosians attacked?'

AT THE TEMPLE

Kresk's body twitched as his spirit was ripped from his flesh. Rukyzai however sensed a questing presence, the presence of the entity to whom he had spoken.

It probed around the edges of Rukyzai's mind and, finding no entrance, contented itself with the gentlest of whisper.

~i will send a servant to attend you~

Outside the temple a wind started to build in intensity, howling like tormented souls through the gaps in the masonry.

Suddenly, like a mismade puppet suddenly hoisted unevenly by its strings by an inexpert puppeteer, Kresk's body lurched upright. A myriad of expressions twisted across his face, finally settling as a lopsided sneer.

'mY loRd," the body croaked, 'whAt is yOUr wiLL?'

"There is a dark shadow that haunts these streets. And for once it is not an elf", Lerathin gave a flicker of a smile before he continued grimly, "It attacked me at a local bar for no reason and with several followers that is linked, I think, to the police force. Its an accursed one, a being of darkness and negative energy, and its destruction should be paramount but it is extremely powerful. And I dont believe that military action will bring us any closer to its demise".

Guessing what Liz was thinking, Lerathin was determined that war was to be averted at all cost until at least they find a more credible enemy. And it was condoned by the people of this city.....this nation. Only if it was an unjust regime then shall we remove it. But it seemed merely to be poorly run. And corrupted, he remembered the attack at the bar.

"Please, let us find her instead. War is death and that is not the Elven way".

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

OOC: Um i dont have much time, so this is my last post till half term so here it is.

Malk pushes through the crowds at the airport.

"Um one ticket toBarbados please"

The clerk looks a t him.

"£129 please"

Malks smiles.

"I think ill just fly."

Five hours later a large swarm bats is seen in Barbados!

OOC: See you on the 13th of feb!

OOC: see ya, but until then, Keep Malk the character close at hand :wink:

"The shadow you faced does not stand alone," Liz answered calmly, "though I thank the stars that its fellows have not been seen in Kadursk for long years. Its appearance here is a terrible sign of the growing shadow behind the wall, and the growing confidence and arrogance of its master."

"What is this shadow that you speak of? What of the wall? Who is this master?", Lerathin questioned.

Inwardly he groaned, We might need to use force after all. Dear gods! But the Imperial Army and Navy is being mobilized for a war against the Zalcoor. And Lionel is still missing.......

Liz hesitated.

It was hard even in her own thoughts to make sense of her memories, her life, what had once been.

When she spoke she adressed both elves.

"Lerathin, earlier I began to tell you... this city, this land was not always as it is now. You can see the echoes of glory and splendour here, but there are few who remember it. Any of it." A pause, as she gathered her thoughts.

"One day, one moment, something happened and everything changed. And when it changed, it was as if it had always been thus. There are few who even recall the days before, and day by day they grow fewer in number. The enemy hates us and seeks our extermination."

"Enemy?" she was unsure which of her listeners had spoken.

"The one beyond the wall, the master of the Former Mordorians. What he is I do not know, save that he is evil beyond all measure. The land, the people have been reshaped in his image in an instant. I pray his evil may be undone, but that may be a forlorn hope.

"This city, Kadursk, was once the glory of our people, the great Western Port. Now it is a slum, a haven of devils and vagabonds. But at least it is only under the edge of the shadow.

"What may be done I do not know. But this I do know. Beyond that wall my people dwell under darkness. Changed, oppressed, helpless. If you war against their master it is my people who will be slain."

She waited, silently gathering her thoughts.

Lerathin nodded in agreement though he knew it was his racial duty to slay such things with righteous fury. But his fire was quelled when he knew that it would hurt Liz extremely should he bring war upon her people.

"You shall have no fear from the elves of the Elvarin Liz. The Elven warriors of my nation are currently busying readying themselves for a different war".

He smiled sadly, "I should be with them. It is amongst the stars and no doubt will prove devastating to our kind".

"However, you will still have my service", And he bowed before her, a rare honour and sight for an elf to do.

My soul is also yours now, he thought with resignation but also with gladness.

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

Instantly, and seemingly without conscious thought, Liz responded with a curtsey (incongruous given the rough combat gear she was wearing) and with lowered eyes responded in flawless quenya:

No service but that I would gladly return, yet friendship between our peoples shall cause the wise to rejoice.

"You don't seem to understand. We don't want anything from this country. To be completely honest, your problems are not ours to solve. We came here because we wanted to find out the truth about the elven related terrorist attacks. That's all, we don't want to conquer this country, or to change the goverment. Your internal affairs must be solved by your own people. But the stupid Duchess is the cousin to the Chief of the Paelisi House, and she must be found!". Although the Alberthil noble was a calmed fellow, the worry on his face was leading him to desperation. "If something happens to her, I won't be able of stop the enraged nobles wishing revenge".

"Lerathin. You're the reason of my mission. I wanted to find out if you were innocent of the charges that the Mordorian Goverment rose against you to my goverment. We don't want to kill the people of this country, and I can assure you that we won't fire the first shot. But if hell opens, the flames will engulf us all", said the diplomat.

"If you say that there's a tyrant who opress you, then let us handle him. We'll support you to depose him. We'll give you weapons, training, funds, supplies. Whatever you need, but I need to find the Duchess first".

Sergeant: Sir are you ok?

Romanov: Ya ill be fine get the other guy and call a Drop ship and get out of here.

Sergeant: Yes sir.

Romanov: Get the medic in here. These guys were hit at close range have him check them.

As the Helicopter arrived the other terrorist was found along with a few bombs and low quality automatic weaponry. The terrorists and Romanov were airlifted were taken to the landing grounds where the mechs were and were immediatly taken care of.


OOC:((i am waiting for the mordorians reply to this sucessful mission))

Sergeant: Sir are you ok?

Romanov: Ya ill be fine get the other guy and call a Drop ship and get out of here.

Sergeant: Yes sir.

Romanov: Get the medic in here. These guys were hit at close range have him check them.

As the Helicopter arrived the other terrorist was found along with a few bombs and low quality automatic weaponry. The terrorists and Romanov were airlifted were taken to the landing grounds where the mechs were and were immediatly taken care of.


OOC:((i am waiting for the mordorians reply to this sucessful mission))

Rukyzai's eyes flashed deviously at the reanimated Kresk and stepped closer to bear down upon him like a great shadow.

"That rests on what you can offer me."

"Be calmed old one", Lerathin intoned in elvish as he placed his hand on the diplomat's shoulder.

"We will find her, just as the sun must rise but please be patient. And as for my innocence", he smiled, "I commited no crime but the right to defend myself this night. That is all".

Lerathin spoked in common again and gazed at both Liz and Aberthil, "She will be found. And war shall be averted".

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

POLICE HQ

Diana had not turned in for duty, and Caitlin was fuming. She was still grazed, battered and dazed from the attack on Thrand, but sick benefits were notably absent from the Intelligence Corps package. And now she was reduced to acting as a Skangirl in the vaults.

"If you say that there's a tyrant who opress you, then let us handle him. We'll support you to depose him. We'll give you weapons, training, funds, supplies. Whatever you need, but I need to find the Duchess first".

Caitlin raised a weary eyebrow. That was worthy of relaying. Sedition and a missing Duchess. Having an Aelosian Duchess in... the hospitality of the Protectorate could certainly assist negotiations. Or at the very least make an amusing hour of television.

She pressed the button to summon Maretarn.

TO THE DUNDAINE TROOPS

++From Maretarn++
++Mission accomplished successfully++
++Congratulations++
++Relocate forces to periphery of city++
++Prevent terrorist forces leaving Kadursk++
++Prevent civilian access to airfield++
++The Protectorate thanks you++

TO RUKYZAI

The Kresk Zombie's head lolled to one side.
"i sHall bE yOurS to coMMand. tHe ciTY awAiTs yOuR wIll."

It stopped suddenly as though hearing an inner voice.

"loOse in oUr ciTy an eLf woMan mUst bE fOUnd. asSist us aNd ouR maSter wiLL graNt all yoUr desIres."

AT THE AELOSIAN EMBASSY

"We don't have much time to waste," Liz said. "your Duchess is at the mercy of the streets of Kadursk. And they have no mercy."

Turning to Lerathin she added. "If you can furnish me with a weapon, my lord, I will lead the search."

Lerathin laughed, "What you see upon me, is all the weapons I have", and he pointed to his sword.

"Perhaps we may borrow some weapons from you my lord", he enquired of the old diplomat.

"Once we are equipped, then we shall be off. But would you by anychance have elven bread?", Lerathin tilted his head to Liz and spoke in elvish so as not to offend her, "She is only human and must receive sustenance soon. We have fought and traveled hard this night to get here"

Then he realised that Liz spoked Quenya before and nearly blushed at his own stupidity, But where did she learn of it? Another forgotten memory or is it a skill, was his confused thought.

Speaking normally again, he asked, "Can you also provide us with a diversion?"

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

OOC: To the Aelosians... do you want to let me know what's happened to your Duchess, or do you want me to decide what's happened so you can all have the fun of searching for her? Just trying to provide options :D

OOC: We could roleplay what happened to her. As far as I know, she was just walking on the street.

IC:

"I'll provide you with weapons, equipment and lembas. I even send a man of my own with you. Captain Secaldes!", he shouted, calling the older guard. "He'll go with you, he's a SpecialOps operative. He'll give you weapons, equipment and everything you need".

"I just have three men with me right now, I don't have enough force to create a diversion, unless Captain Secaldes is willing to do that".

"Please follow me, Sire. I'll get you what you need", said the older guard to Lerathin and Liz.

"Farewell, my friends, please bring me the Duchess safe and alive", said the older diplomat.

OOC: I'm cool RPing what happened to the Duchess, but we will have to do some at least in "flashback" so we can figure out where she is now. The only definite is that she didn't get back to the Embassy. She went walking shortly before the troops moved in, and was being harassed by two local no-goodniks.

EARLIER THAT DAY...



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.

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?"

The two ruffians circled around the elf woman, mocking, their manner threatening.

The smaller of the two men, Fast Jack, was doing most of the talking, the taunting. "You look lost, let's take you home with us coochie, we'll show you all you need to see in Kadursk."

The bigger man, Cooler, was more wary, still menacing by his presence. He was cautious though, keeping an eye on the street, making sure that the few citizens around were keeping their gaze averted. Trouble like Fast Jack and Cooler was better when it was aimed at someone else...

OOC: I think i will wait until the flash back has passed (and the liquor drained from my body) before I reply.

Rukyzai's eyes narrowed and he began to walk to the large dusty door of the temple. "An Elf? Let's go, the others are certainly looking for the bitch, and we've got to get there first."

The two walked out into the biting cold that nipped vainly at dead nerves. The chill seemed to curl around the phantom, afraid of his presence. Right there Rukyzai realized he had recieved no additional assistiance from the Guide. He didn't need him, and the thought rocked him. Independence. What to make of this he didn't know, but he did sense his loyalties were shifting. Darkness does not discriminate, it spreads through whatever means. Rukyzai was darkness. They stalked into the night, invisible.

*withdraws*
Maybe later.

She just walked faster, trying to put distance between her and the pair of thugs that were salking her. She placed her hand inside her purse, trying to find the small stun gun that she brought with herself.

"Get lost, you smucks!, you'll never have a woman like me, scum", she said, turning back for a second.

Fast Jack sneered derisively at the Duchess.

"I could have ten like you at the drop of a hat, coochie. Do yourself the best favour of your life and spend some time with the Jack-meister."

He signalled with his eyes to Cooler who suddenly sprang to grab the Duchess.

"Don't take another step", said the Duchess pulling out the tiny gun (it's the size of a pen). "Please...please don't hurt me. I'm just taking a walk. I don't want troubles", she said, visibly nervous and scared, her hands trembling trying to hold the gun in Cooler's direction.

"Don't take another step", said the Duchess pulling out the tiny gun (it's the size of a pen). "Please...please don't hurt me. I'm just taking a walk. I don't want troubles", she said, visibly nervous and scared, her hands trembling trying to hold the gun in Cooler's direction.

EARLIER THAT DAY...

"Never fails," sneered Fast Jack as the Duchess' attention flicked toward Cooler. "You'll enjoy the 'Pits, coochie, your ticket to sporting stardom!"

He sprayed a fine mist from a tiny aerosol into the elf woman's face.

OOC to Rukyzai: I'll be back with you soon, just as soon as the Aelosians and I resolve what is happening in the flashback!

(I suppose it's a nerve gas to make her fall inconscious).

The Duchess fell to the floor, the gun slipping from her hand as she fell, without saying a word...

OOC: Well y'know, just trying to re-establish continuity with everyone else. Not too much of a liberty I hope. And I'm sure nothing unpleasant will happen- at least assuming your valiant rescuers get their act together. Speaking of which...

IC:

TO RUKYZAI:

Kresk-Zombie and Rukyzai left the ruins of the temple, the shambling animated corpse in the lead, a twisted grimace fixed on his slack skinned face.

"wE shOUld StaRT oUr searCH neAr the biTch's emBAssy, piCK up the trAIl. thEY wiLl be seARchIng tOo, so wE must be cAUTious."

This night in Kadursk was not a quiet one. Gunfire could be heard on the still air, and in the middle distance the head and shoulders of a Dundaine mech were visible over a rooftop.

TO LERATHIN and CAPTAIN SECALDES

The trio left the Aelosian embassy suitably rearmed and Liz looked with dismay at the chaos in the city.

"Looks like a major operation," she said quietly to the two elven warriors. "They must really be desperate to find you my lord. We shouldn't go near the Elvarin embassy."

Skirting the rear of the Aelosian building, the old Cullen mansion, the trio reached a main street. To the right the wealthier districts of Kadursk, open streets and larger detached houses. To the left the streets grew narrower, leading eventually down to the docks.

"Nowhere's safe tonight," Liz muttered. "Captain Secaldes, where is your Duchess likely to have gone?"

BACK AT CODY's:

Max poured new drinks for Dekker and the Argonian.

"I'll help you if I can," he said. "What do you need from me?"

"The stupid lass left for a walk, she could be anywhere. But she's like a thieving magpie, she's attracted to shiny things, like jewelry and fancy clothes. Do you know where we can found those?", said the Captain, cocking his ShadowBolt battlerifle and placing the batteries of his invisility cloak inside the small compartment in his belt. "I can track her by her scent with this little device, she always uses the same cheap and strong parfume", said the elf, pulling out a little package looking like a transmitter of some sort.

The Eldar exosqueletal armor was impressive, giving him the appearance of a shiny, green oversized scorpion, including the sinister mandibles and the claw sprouting from his right wrist. The change in his appearance was in accord with the one of his expression, from the merry and kind sentinel to a grim and determined commando.

Arakesh finishes his drink and exits the bar, moving out into the middle of the street. The young hunter begins to walk, with the odd jerking motion common to Argonian movement...

OOC: I wont be here on sunday or monday, i got an interview with the army to see if i can get in. I should be bck to continue this.

IC: Lerathin readied himself, declining an offered weapon and clutched the hilt of his family sword. Not long now, there is always blood in what I have to do, he thought sadly.

Speaking lowly to the elven captain in elvish, "I will follow you and guard your back Secaldes so that you complete your mission, but please, protect the human woman should I fail to"

He was interested with Captain's Secaldes armour and invisiblity cloak, Why would an elf needs batteries for one's cloak is beyond me

"Why do you need power for your cloak?", Lerathin continued in elvish so the secrets of their technology arent revealed, "Arent yours powered and activated by the land around you, like my cloak"

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

OUTSIDE THE EMBASSY

"Well normally the only place to find jewellery and fancy clothes in Kadursk is around the central market district," Liz replied to Captain Secaldes. "However the city is like a warzone tonight. She may have started out looking for boutiques but she's unlikely to still be there. It may be a good place to start though."

Liz's face was grim as she continued. "There are some places in Kadursk that a woman alone should not go. Those high class boutiques are sometimes fronts for... unpleasant businesses. If she looked vulnerable she may end up on Mannequin duty."

She did not comment on Secaldes' high tech weaponry or armour. It looked impressive but she knew from bitter experience that battles were fought and won on more than merely armaments. She hoped that all three of them were up to the task the night had set them.

OUTSIDE CODY's

"Evening my friend," an unexpected voice hailed Arakesh as he left the bar. "need a guide? Need food? Need a friend for the evening?"

The speaker was a dumpy, pale skinned human male wearing too many ear-rings and a bulky jacket that could conceal almost anything.

OOC: Good luck with your interview Elvarin Chap! Let us know how you get on.

"Our people has forget magics, now we trust in technology. Most of our most talented mages and sorcerers were killed by our dark kin centuries ago, and now only the eldar technology is the last thing that stands between us and our destruction. Once we wielded ensorcelled blades and enchanted garments like your beautiful people, now we fire rifles and ride in GravTanks", said Secaldes, nodding to Lerathin.

"I'll protect the human woman, Sire, don't worry, should anything happens to you. I give you my word". Then he turned to Liz. "Thank you, let's go to that market. I can't return without her, but I carry enough money with me to pay any price or rescue if we need it. Should I recommend that we rely in stealth in this mission?".

OOC: What is up with NS?? I tried to log on from my home pc yesterday and spent nearly half an hour trying to get onto the server. Then when I did it wouldn't let me post. Grumble, mutter, whine, gripe etc.

IC:

"Tonight more than ever, stealth is a good idea." said Liz with a grim smile. "We'll have to skirt more than one patrol to get to the market district, and when we're there... well there are threats. Follow me."

She led the trio carefully through the Embassy grounds and to the side gate in the outer wall. Beyond it the street stood mostly empty save for a burning car. In the distance, toward the heart of the city, a Mordorian APC shot past the end of the street on an urgent mission to somewhere else.

With stealth surprising - unheard of - in a human, Liz darted from the cover of the gate and began to make her way along the street, staying in shadow and cover.

The trio made slow but careful progress past the outer reaches of the upmarket Market District, and came at length to a wide clean street lined with (shuttered) storefronts.

"I'm worried your Duchess may have ended up in DeLagi's Liz whispered. "It's a high class designer outlet, but the rumour is that it's also a front for an illicit slavery ring. If DeLagi gets an idea that a client is vulnerable they disappear."

"And is the rumour true?"

Liz nodded. "I've been trying to shut the b*stard down for months," she said. "But he has some powerful clients, some beyond The Wall, and that means he's protected. If your Duchess went in there, we need to get her out before she can be shipped out."

OOC: That's usual...sometimes I bang my head against the screen out of impotence...

IC:

"Then what are we waiting for?. Maybe we could just pay them to let her go, after all, if they are slave traders, all they want is money, right?", asked Secaldes, putting the mask of his helmet on, hiding his face.

Guard:Stop!!!

A large black car pulled up and fired at the guard
The guard took the bullet in the chest. The round did not peirce the armour but did knock him over. Right away 30 guards rushed the vehicle with guns out and loaded. 2 young locals were pulled from the car and hit repeadly with rifles until they were unconcious.Then they were dragged into a cell like room and left.

_____________________________________________________________

Romanov: Sir it is clear for you to come action has died down here.

Diplomat: Yes I will arrive tommarow morning and wish to speak with this "Captain Thrand". Your father will be coming to talk with the "attackers" in person.

Romanov: Roger

OOC: I didnt get in, i passed my medical and the damn aptitude test, but i failed the psychology cause the %&^%$&%#@ bitch somehow linked the fact that i slept walked once(over a yr ago) and how i sometimes find it hard to sleep, to anxiety issues. She said to come back in twelve months. There was nearly an inccident in her office as i was tempted to use my papers as a improvised javelin. But i thought better of it, i might have to see tht bitch again in the future.(with her missing an eye of course)

IC: Lets hope thats all that they want, though Lerathin kept the thought to himself. Wrapping his cloak about him, he faded into the background and trailed after his companions, keeping his senses alert to his surroundings.

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

OOC: uhhh what military branch navy army marines airforce whatever and what country?

Romanov: Shit shit shit shit shit!!!!!

V. Romanov: whats happening?

Romanov: Well father is coming to check up and do some "diplomacy"

V. Romanov: well thats the was shit happens eh?

Romanov: Ya well I want you to talk to Thrand and ill wait for father

V. Romanov: Ok im goin

____________________________________________________

Viktor arrives at Thands residence and knocks on the doors

Lerathin, Secaldes and Liz stalked through the sidestreet running perpendicular to the upmarket shopping area, seeking a rear entrance to DeLagi's.

"It may not be that simple. If DeLagi has got his hands... sorry... has captured your Duchess he is likely to stand to make a fortune. An elf in the land beyond the wall is seen as the enemy of all time. If he has got her, he won't give her up without a fight."

The trio arrived at a gateway into a covered yard area behind DeLagi's shop. The windows in the shop's rear were all shuttered with slotted metal. The door looked sturdy and was covered by an armoured CCTV camera mounted above it on the wall.

Lights were on inside.

It was time to plan an approach.

OOC: Sorry to hear about yesterday Elvarin. Hope things improve for you.

TO THE DUNDAINE:

The door of Thrand's residence was opened by Count Rorand Stelltor, a handsome young blade in a swish military tunic, a sabre at his right hip.

"Well, well if it isn't the incredibly fortuitous Dundainians. I didn't know you'd been summoned here?"

"We haven't. I came to see Thrand."

"Well you're welcome to, old fellow," quipped Rory, "but he's not very entertaining. Lying with a hole in him courtesy of Elvish murderers. Come inside, you can talk to me."

Rory led Romanov into the palatial building and settled down in a leather armchair.

"Care for some brandy and a cigar while we talk?"

"It's time for some jamming", said Secaldes pushing a button in the forearm of his armor. A little screen appeared, along with several eldar runes. "I'll render the cameras useless, and all advanced electonic systems with a little EMP, then we should be able to enter undetected", said the Eldar warrior, placing his finger over the screen.

>>Fizzle<<

The tiny red blinking light on the CCTV camera stopped blinking and slowly faded away.

Nearby, in a tastelessly decorated room a slender hermaphrodite reclined on a leopardskin chaise longue. Dressed in a skintight white lycra outfit with gold chains at neck and wrists (s)he was speaking on the telephone.

"You'll have to repeat that, there's some interference on the cellphone."

The voice at the other end, irritable, responded. The hermaphrodite's face lit up with self indulgent glee.

"Elvish? You don't say? Well, you delightful little thug, treat her well and I'll be right over."

Another gruff comment from the other end of the conversation.

"What?" the hermaphrodite shook the phone irritably. "This interference is terrible, what on earth is wrong with the signal. Did you say 'the pits'?"

The answer must have been in the affirmative. The white clad creature sprang to his/her feet anxiously before shrieking down the phone.

"They'll cut her to bloody ribbons you... you... tit! Try to stall things, I'll be right there!"

TO THE DUNDAINE:

The door of Thrand's residence was opened by Count Rorand Stelltor, a handsome young blade in a swish military tunic, a sabre at his right hip.

"Well, well if it isn't the incredibly fortuitous Dundainians. I didn't know you'd been summoned here?"

"We haven't. I came to see Thrand."

"Well you're welcome to, old fellow," quipped Rory, "but he's not very entertaining. Lying with a hole in him courtesy of Elvish murderers. Come inside, you can talk to me."

Rory led Romanov into the palatial building and settled down in a leather armchair.

"Care for some brandy and a cigar while we talk?"

OOC::((ya its Viktor romanov just incase u missed that not Marcus ))Romanov

Viktor: Eh i suppose. My father the Ruler of Dundaine is here at our base and wishes to make diplomatic agreements with the leader here and Thrand was the one that my older brother told me to go to. It appears as if he didnt know of this attack. My extreme apologies are to Thrand and a package of Fine Dundiaine Coffees and chocolates will be dilivered to him.

____________________________________________________________


Romanov: Hello father welcome to our base

Dictator: Thank you son. Have my diplomatic meetings been set up?

Romanov: Viktor is talking with them right now

Dictator: Ok

Romanov: The meeting will be tommarow please get some sleep the town is dangerous lately

Viktor: Eh i suppose. My father the Ruler of Dundaine is here at our base and wishes to make diplomatic agreements with the leader here and Thrand was the one that my older brother told me to go to. It appears as if he didnt know of this attack. My extreme apologies are to Thrand and a package of Fine Dundiaine Coffees and chocolates will be dilivered to him.

____________________________________________________________


Romanov: Hello father welcome to our base

Dictator: Thank you son. Have my diplomatic meetings been set up?

Romanov: Viktor is talking with them right now

Dictator: Ok

Romanov: The meeting will be tommarow please get some sleep the town is dangerous lately

Viktor: Eh i suppose. My father the Ruler of Dundaine is here at our base and wishes to make diplomatic agreements with the leader here and Thrand was the one that my older brother told me to go to. It appears as if he didnt know of this attack. My extreme apologies are to Thrand and a package of Fine Dundiaine Coffees and chocolates will be dilivered to him.

____________________________________________________________


Romanov: Hello father welcome to our base

Dictator: Thank you son. Have my diplomatic meetings been set up?

Romanov: Viktor is talking with them right now

Dictator: Ok

Romanov: The meeting will be tommarow please get some sleep the town is dangerous lately

Rory smiles broadly.

"The exalted ruler of Dundaine eh? We are honoured today by his presence, fine news indeed." He takes a long draw on his cigar. "I shall have to arrange for that fine fellow to meet with a dignitary befitting his rank."

"Oh, and I'm sure Thrand will be very grateful for the chocolates etcetera. If you have them delivered here I'll make sure he receives them."

Should make a nice present to cheer Caitlin up he thought She could do with a break.

Viktor: Thank you tell thrand i was here.

After Viktor had left the office he went into the bar and sat down.

In the Bar was a beautiful young woman sitting in the boot across from his sipping on a beer by her self looking around as if new and scared.

Viktor decided that he was only 23 and that he could use a girlfriend, well he was gonna be here for a while he might as well.

Viktor: Im gonna go for it!....No no im not..Ya im going

Viktor got up and sat in the booth with the young woman.

Woman: Can I help you?

Viktor: Yes I am Viktor Romanov my tank corps are here on a mission. Perhaps u have seen people in this uniform walking around.

Woman: Well I just got in this morning

Viktor: Well not many come here by choice. How did u get here?

Woman: Well Uncle T is well my uncle.

Viktor: Uncle T

Woman: ya ive called him that sense i was little. uhh you would know him as Thrand.

Viktor: Really.

Woman: Well i frogot to introduce my self. my name is Jessica Taylor.

Viktor: Well glad to meet you. Maybe well we can meet up tonight and do something. There is something to do here i am sure.

Jessica: Well I dont see anything wrong with that. Ill meet you here?

Viktor: Sure at 6.

Jessica: Its a date.

Viktor: Whatever you say.

___________________________________________________

Viktor: Thank you tell thrand i was here.

After Viktor had left the office he went into the bar and sat down.

In the Bar was a beautiful young woman sitting in the boot across from his sipping on a beer by her self looking around as if new and scared.

Viktor decided that he was only 23 and that he could use a girlfriend, well he was gonna be here for a while he might as well.

Viktor: Im gonna go for it!....No no im not..Ya im going

Viktor got up and sat in the booth with the young woman.

Woman: Can I help you?

Viktor: Yes I am Viktor Romanov my tank corps are here on a mission. Perhaps u have seen people in this uniform walking around.

Woman: Well I just got in this morning

Viktor: Well not many come here by choice. How did u get here?

Woman: Well Uncle T is well my uncle.

Viktor: Uncle T

Woman: ya ive called him that sense i was little. uhh you would know him as Thrand.

Viktor: Really.

Woman: Well i frogot to introduce my self. my name is Jessica Taylor.

Viktor: Well glad to meet you. Maybe well we can meet up tonight and do something. There is something to do here i am sure.

Jessica: Well I dont see anything wrong with that. Ill meet you here?

Viktor: Sure at 6.

Jessica: Its a date.

Viktor: Whatever you say.

___________________________________________________

OOC: LOL! Magnificent. Uncle T indeed! I look forward to seeing how Jessica turns out!

OOC: Glad you like it i thought with all this fighting a lil romance would do some good.

IC:

After Viktors meeting with Jessica he got up and decided to return to the air field.

Romanov: How'd it go?

Viktor: Well Thrand was shot and has practicly a hole in his chest.

Romanov: Well that kinda dents things.

Viktor: Oh, ya Marcus I met someone

Romanov: Well hostile? (making motion towards his radio)

Viktor: NO no no calm down man...I met a woman.

Romanov: Eh hehehe well who is she?

Viktor: uhhh.......uhhhh.......

Romanov: TELL ME!!!

Viktor: uhhhhh Thrands niece.

Romanov: HAHAHAHA your fucking me around eh?

Viktor: No but she is hott. Got a date tonight at 6

Romanov: Well go then get ready.

Viktor come out of his quarters in his finely pressed Military dress uniform.(which happens to represent a German WW2 Uniform.)(no arm band)

Viktor walked into the bar and adjusted his sidearm underneath his uniform. Then he sat in a empty booth. After about 10 minutes passed Jessica walked in wearing a long black dress.

Viktor: Wow...wow. You look great.

Jessica: Well thanks. You too.

Viktor: thanks well. Lets go then.

Both stood up and walked outside. After about 5 minutes of walking they came along a very nice restaraunt. They walked in and took there seats.

Viktor: So where you from?

Jessica: A small nation that borders here.

Viktor: Hmm sounds small.

Jessica: hehe ya it is.

After eating they get up and decide to find something else to do. After leaving the restaraunt they find a limosine outside and the driver is holding a sign saying Viktor Romanov.

Viktor: Who paid for all of this?

Driver: You brother.

Viktor: cool.

Viktor opens the door for Jessica and then gets in.

Viktor: Driver find us a movie or something

Driver: right away sir

__________________________________________________

The streets were thankfully quieter now than they had been. The military presence was still high, but no one interfered with Viktor's limousine.

There were very few cinemas in town, but the driver seemed to know his way around and drove without hesitation...

OOC: I have been waiting for the plot to develop a little more before i go on so can u guys have some action...BTW mordor how come it feels like its only me and u in this thread now.

Lerathin smiled at the captain's device, "that is very handy", he whispered.

He turned to Liz as he grasped his sword in one hand, "I think it is time we let ourselves in", he suggested and did the most unelvish thing. He grinned.

The movie they planned to see was a chick flick/horror film. Something they could both agree on. The movie was rather uneventful. After as they were driving around town Viktor saw a man advirtising for a contest.

Viktor: Driver, stop the car.

Driver: Right away.

Viktor got out and read the sign about a dance contest inside the hall behind the man.

Viktor: Right now?

Man: yes

Viktor: enter me.

Viktor: Jessica lets go in here

Jessica: ok whats going on?

Viktor: Dance contest. hehe

Jessica: Sounds fun.

Viktor did his act and was judged a 91. He recieved 2nd place and a rather small trophy. But most importantly a kiss from his date.

Viktor and Jessica got back into the limo and drove to the Base.

Jessica: Aren't we going back to my hotel.

Viktor: No that isnt very safe.

Jessica: ok.

The two got out of the limo and then the limo drove away.

Viktor: Jessica stay here for a minute ok?

Jessica: ok.

Viktor walks into his brothers quarters and thanks him for the limo and sets up Jessicas quarters.

Viktor: Sergeant!

Sgt: Yes Sir?

Viktor: Get this lady a place to stay

Sgt: right away sir!

Viktor: So Jessica shall we get you settled?

Jessica: Ya

After all of Jessicas stuff was in her room the two said good night and Viktor went to his room.

As Viktor was taking off his dress uniforms gunshots were fired that sounded low caliber and automatic. definently not a D-17 or a Sidearm. Viktor rushed out with his rifle and sidearm still strapped to his side. Wearing a t-shirt and his Dress pants.

____________________________________________________

DUNDAINE-

I love the idea of the dance contest and the fact that Militia Viktor came in 2nd... maybe we can run a Kadursk Dance Tournament thread sometime. Do you want me to participate in the latest attack going on, or leave it to you to play out... I'm :D either way, just let me know!

ELVARIN & AELOSIANS-

As Lerathin, Liz and Secaldes prepared to move in, footsteps were heard inside DeLagi's building approaching the rear door they were watching.

The door opened, revealing a large amount of internal reinforcement, and out stepped a massive burly man wearing a black silk shirt beneath a grey waistcoat. The pistol he was carrying looked like a custom made job, and very dangerous. He was followed out by DeLagi himself, the slim hermaphrodite in white, now topping the ensemble off with a white surgical mask.

Bringing up the rear a tall athletic woman with crew cut red hair, she was wearing a tight leather vest top and skintight jeans. No chance of concealing a weapon on her... which is probably why she was openly carrying a sawn off shotgun.

"Fetch the car, fetch the car at once, Leon," piped DeLagi to the big man.

I want to be more involved in the group I seem to be drifting off out of the pack where the main plot is going on. Tell me how i can get back in the mix

uhh i feel like bumping so more ppl may get up in this

OOC: I saw this thread looked kinda cool after reading throught i see there is a military here....elves......assasins......and a dating military officer.

IC: Elana came into town an incredable new scene. She was used to a nice clean city with low low crime. This city was hardly this. Filled with incredble amounts of low skulky charicters.

Her first stop was the Air field where a local military service was looking for troopers. Elana was a extremly good sniper. All she needed was the right material.

________________________________________________

OOC: hope this is ok that i join this thread..im kinda new at this tell me is i mess up or if i am conflicting with other story lines

Romanov: Those shots were fired from 2 people that belong to the Zamzon Crime Faction and whos headquarters are located 2 miles north of the city. Were gonna take them out.

Viktor: Tanks?

Romanov: Yes tanks.


__________________________________________________________



When the troops were deployed the tanks were planned to drop shells all over the target to clear.....But trouble began right away.

Within 5 minutes of the start of the operation the tanks came under fire by howitzers and antitank weaponry.

Viktor's tank was the first to be hit. The hit stoped this left hover engines causing it to spin out and crash. Viktor grabbed his D-17 rifle and told his crew to get out. The 4 crew members jumped out and Viktor followed him. When the tank landed the Hover pad blades broke off. The blade when flying decapitating a soldier. Viktor ran to the front lines and met up with his brother.

They were planning to charge the hill and fight off as many as they could. The head quarters was in a small 4 story bulding. most of which was underground. 2 above and 2 below. The outside of the compound was surrounded with mounted machine guns and men with Ak-47 and kalasnikov machine guns.

During the hill charge there was several calls over the radio.

Men down!!!!! MEN DOWN!!!!!!

Viktor charged the mountain with the second wave. the first wave retreated to regroup. Viktor came upon one of the wounded. It was the private who was deathly against smoking. He was wounded in the legs 2 shots from an AK. Minor wounds..no amputations would be needed. Viktor picked him up over his shoulder and turned around and began to look for a medic. After about 10 steps Viktor felt a numbing pain shoot up his leg. an again in his chest. Viktor fell and everything blacked out.

___________________________________________________

Dead / Wounded of Zamazon Charge

Private John McGrath (Wounded) (2 Ak-47 wounds to the legs)
Sergeant Alexi Demoa (Killed) (Hover blade decapitaion)
Lieutenant Viktor Romanov (Killed) (2 M50 machine gun shots to the legs, 3 Ak-47 Shots to the chest, 3 Baynet Stabs in the back)

OOC: Reichstadt - you're very welcome! I'm sorry things have been a bit slow paced over the last few days - work has been hectic with disturbing rumours of takeovers etc so I haven't had as much time (or calm!) to post as usual. Normal service will be restored asap.

DUNDAINE-

I love the idea of the dance contest and the fact that Militia Viktor came in 2nd... maybe we can run a Kadursk Dance Tournament thread sometime. Do you want me to participate in the latest attack going on, or leave it to you to play out... I'm :D either way, just let me know!

ELVARIN & AELOSIANS-

As Lerathin, Liz and Secaldes prepared to move in, footsteps were heard inside DeLagi's building approaching the rear door they were watching.

The door opened, revealing a large amount of internal reinforcement, and out stepped a massive burly man wearing a black silk shirt beneath a grey waistcoat. The pistol he was carrying looked like a custom made job, and very dangerous. He was followed out by DeLagi himself, the slim hermaphrodite in white, now topping the ensemble off with a white surgical mask.

Bringing up the rear a tall athletic woman with crew cut red hair, she was wearing a tight leather vest top and skintight jeans. No chance of concealing a weapon on her... which is probably why she was openly carrying a sawn off shotgun.

"Fetch the car, fetch the car at once, Leon," piped DeLagi to the big man.

"With no doubt the white robed one is the boss, let him alive, but make sure that he, she or whatever it is end this terrified", said Secaldes firing three rounds of his Shuriken pistol to the huge man standing next to him...

Outside DeLagi's...

As Secaldes opened fire with his shuriken pistol, the woman with the shotgun reacted with inhuman speed, seeming almost to blur at the edges as she moved. Neural boosterware Liz thought expensive

"Leon, get down," the woman yelled, but it was too late. The razor sharp projectiles struk the big man, wounding him terribly, sending a crimson spray of arterial blood across the enclosed yard.

DeLagi (him)self had no time to even whimper. The boosted bodyguard slammed her principal onto the floor at the same time as she opened fire in the direction of Secaldes' shots. The shotgun boomed several times and the shells tore in the direction of the three watchers.

Liz darted away from Secaldes and Lerathin rolling across the ground and firing a few snapped shots from her newly acquired pistol at the crew-cut woman who was now crouching behind DeLagi's limo. The shots missed by a whisker.

"What's happening?" piped the hermaphrodite. His bodyguard made no response, but cursed as she unleashed another salvo, this time in Liz's direction.

Leon finally fell face forward and lay still.

OOC to Reichstadt... Could you describe Elana, her manner of approach etc. There are a few different ways her recruitment could go you see...

Secaldes took cover behind a nearby tree, hoping to draw the attention of the firing woman so Liz could take her down by her flank. He just launched several barrages of his weapon without aiming, just to distract the shotgun madwoman to fire at him and forget about Liz.

Secaldes took cover behind a nearby tree, hoping to draw the attention of the firing woman so Liz could take her down by her flank. He just launched several barrages of his weapon without aiming, just to distract the shotgun madwoman to fire at him and forget about Liz.

The woman with the shotgun threw herself sideways to avoid Secaldes' volley, trying to get a clear shot into the darkness where the elf was covered by the shadows.

Silent as twilight, Liz circled behind the woman and leapt, landing catlike beside her and placing the barrel of her pistol against the woman's neck.

"Enough." she snapped.

The woman, faster than she had any right to be, half turned and deliberately fell backward to move from Liz's firing line. As she fell, her right foot snapped upward into Liz's midriff almost winding her.

"Looks like we will need to finish this in the old melee combat way after all", said Secaldes to himself. Drawing his long power sword and turning it on, he jumped from his cover approaching the hermaphrodite as far as he could.

The list was read in front of the crowded soldiers by Romanov

After Romanov finished reading the list he left his Lt. in charge and went back into the tent and started to cry.

Romanov: I cant beleve he is gone!




OOC: a lil small but more too come need to make suspense

"Liz!!!", Lerathin yelled and exploded into movement, his sword flaring to life with blue fire as it answered his master's alarm.

"Isha guide my hand!", he roared as he fell into step with captain secaldes, two elves united in cause. His sword fell unto the hermaphrodite.....


OOC: The '....' Is for whatever you want to add Nigel. :wink:

The hermaphrodite, already squealing in alarm had half crawled underneath his (?) limousine and that alone saved his (?) life, the blow scything through the metal of the vehicle before it reached vulnerable flesh. As it was the wound inflicted was a serious one, and the wriggling creature screamed in pain.

Liz meanwhile had recovered her poise and, with her opponent's attention distracted by Secaldes, she unleashed a devastating snap kick at the side of the woman's nearest knee.

Neural boosters or not, that would slow her down. The woman fell as Secaldes reached the melee.

Leon made a final gurgling noise from a few feet away and then fell silent.

"I surrender, I surrender," screamed the terrified DeLagi, still half trapped beneath the car. "Kill the others but spare my life, I will give you half my wealth, my cars, my lands, even my designer chiffon collection from fin de siecle of Paris."

The wounded bodyguard gritted her teeth against the pain in her leg, not daring to move in the face of the two fearsome elf warriors. She did however spit in the direction of her former employer as it abandoned her to her fate.

"We need to find out if DeLagi has your Duchess," Liz said quietly to Secaldes. "I don't think it will be a tough nut to crack."

"Thank you, human. You did me and my country a great service", said Secaldes nodding to Liz. Then he turned to DeLagi, speaking in a hard tone of voice, very different from the common musical elven tongue.

"Now, withered wretch. The elf woman, blonde, delicate. Where is she?, What have you done to her?", as he spoke, the elven warrior placed the huge claw at the end of his left hand in Delagi's throat and raising him/her in the air, the strange visors of the helmet looking like insectoid eyes. "Talk, or this thing will snap your neck".

"Withered? Withered?" DeLagi squealed in dismay. "I'm honed damn you, honed. How dare you - eeek! No please don't! Damn you elves and your beastly weapons!"

DeLagi looked around for help, eyes falling on Liz. The creature paled.

"Oh mercy, great lady, mercy."

"You've had a year of life more than you deserve, monster." Liz snapped back. "This elf lord will slay you unless you speak truly. Where is his Duchess?"

"I don't know- no please - I honestly do not know for sure... but one of my brokers did speak of an elvish girl, in the roster for the pits."

Liz swore. It is unlikely that either of the elves present knew or understood the word, but the tone made its meaning clear.

"My Lord Secaldes," she said, "we need to move quickly. The Pits are a place of barbaric entertainment. Unless your Duchess is a trained killer she is likely to be slain cruelly for the enjoyment of a mob of ruffians that make Uruk Hai look like debutantes."

"Where?"

"Down by the docklands, the other side of town. Damnation."

OOC: Lerathin or Secaldes you can do what you like to DeLagi and the bodyguard. Liz is more likely to leave them alive - she's not big on cold blooded killing - but any resistance she makes to that idea from others will be token at best in DeLagi's case.

Viktor awoke.

He was in a large vat of water like green fluids.
Little lazers were doing "sergery" on his many open wounds.

Then he blacked out again.

______________________________________

Romanov had gone to the group again and granted them a 2 day leave.

After Romanov finished Jessica walked up to him.

Jessica: Any news about him?

Romanov: Nope.

Secaldes just placed a very hard and precise punch with his gloved hand in the middle of the DeLagi's chest, then just let him fall to the floor. The strange "thing" was a scumbag, yet it was unarmed and it would be a dishonor to kill him. "Then he turned to the female bodyguard, still alive. "You're good, and skillful, please find a better employer the next time", were his words, pronounced in a metalic tone beneath the elaborate Eldar helm.

"Please lead me, My lady, please take me to the pits", he said to Liz, bowing a little.

"And I will accompany you, if you would please."

In front of you forms the shape of Malk, wearing shorts, sandals, a hawaiin shirt and looking rather tanned for a vampire. He raises a bloody mary in his left hand and offers you a sip.

"No? Oh well your the one who is missing out!"

With this he downs the drink and drops the glass to the floor, in the instant that you attention is diverted by the noise he has changed his garb wearing what looks like a straight jacket, his long black hair falling down to the top of his thighs, his silver sword (of spooky unknown origin) lays sheathed at his side.

http://futagoza.fuberri.net/animegraphic04.png

Viktor was released from the hospital in town and began to walk away back towards the base only to run into some armed men.

Man: Look what we have here.... one of those foriegn soldiers that is fucking with our humble city

Viktor: Humble??? HA hardly

The man pushed Viktor aside and walked away.

Viktor didnt reach the base for another hour for he was walkin quite slow on the crutches.


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I've been unable to post for some time due to complex work situations including corporate takeovers and serious amounts of uncertainty.

Thanks to all who've been keeping things going.

If you can bear with me for a day or so I'll try to get back "online" in a couple of days.