NationStates Jolt Archive

It had been a few weeks since the Dragon King incident. Lady Warfare thought it might be nice for a reunion. To that end, she personally went and visited Her friends, inviting them for a Tour of Riptide.



OOC: Alright people, Since it is my planet, I will be RP'ing the environment itself, Lady warfare, Every Sliver, including the Queen, Death, with limited powers due to his recent defeat and early revival, Various things the Mirari conjures up, and the Mirari itself. Have fun, and Tagging is acceptable.

OOC: I have six characters in this. This is going to be hard to do, lol...and according to need, I might summon more.

IC:

The first two to arrive were cloaked in gold and silver. If any of their faces were not hidden by the deep cowls of their robes, they were hidden by the masks the mages wore.

T'puuli, Kaymiril's most formidible mage that specialized in space and all within it, was the silver clad. Visiting a new planet was a first for her, and she was looking forward to this experience.

Plak'la was clad in gold. Time, its flow, controlling its flow, and recognising and correcting abnormalities in its flow were tasks he had long since mastered. He wasn't entirely certain why he had come...he just felt that he was needed.

T -- Don't worry, Plak'la...it will be an interesting time, to say the least.

P -- Do I really think that loudly?

T -- Only sometimes.

The next to arrive was a figure cloaked in black, but not hooded. She had a half mask over her face. This was Rhenmet, the third most talented mage of a secret class. Half dragon, half something else, she had been adopted by her master almost three hundred years ago, and it was the only life she remembered.

Next was a gray clad figured, dressed identically to the gold and silver. This was Mith, the most powerful healer in their nation, and arguably one of the best in the world. She nodded at the others, and waited for the final two to arrive.

A portal opened, and remained open after its creator stepped through. This figure was dressed in black, and he merely stepped to the side of his portal and stood there, waiting.

Finally, a shimmering portal, remniscent in shape of a spiral galaxy, shimmered into and out of view, leaving behind a young woman. Easily the youngest currently there, Princess Annastrianna d' Maril had yet to turn eighty. Yet she held her head high, with a regality undeniable.

A -- "I see we've all made it."

They have appeared on an all metal world. there is no trace of dirt any were. There is a low level shock on the ground, indicating that the planet has had a few thuderstorms recently. There is still traces of Quicksilver on the ground. All five suns blaze brightly overhead. One white, one blue, one red, but naturally so, due to the fact that it was a white sun in a red nebula, the same with a green sun. The last was a black sun, a bright white star, obscured by a thick black nebula. Slivers are crawling about. Music chimes on the air, as the razorgrass field sway in the braze in the distance. In front of them is a large cave. Each and every square inch or Mirroden is polished to a mirror reflection quality. Beside the mages is a cave. Lady Warfare walks out of the entrance, the Queen Sliver Slithers up beside him.

"Welcome to Mirroden. the metal beneath you is called Darksteel, against all efforts to use it, it holds firm. We think it is indestructable. Never the less, We must wait awhile here to see if Col. Couger and Galvenor wish to come for a visit. In the mean time, why not come inside, I have conjured comfortable chairs for all of you. We can talk awhile, surly you must have questions." Lady warfare said in her Light Musical Voice.

OOC: The Mirari has not been made yet, nor has the queen died yet. It will happen though, right on the Tour. I'm not telling where though. Dinner is calling, I will return.

T -- Intriguing. A world made of metal...*her eyes roam the scene before her*

A -- *Nods to the mages, and they all head in and take seats* You've been well, Warfare?

"Spiritually yes, and thats all that matters."Lady warfare said.
"How have you been doing, all of you?" The Queen sliver asked, coiled up and the size of a hill.

We have been as well as we usually are.

*The mages looked at the Princess. It was not usual for her to answer for others...it appeared, though that she had something to say.*

*Anna stood and approached the Queen Sliver, then made a halfbow. Bows in Kaymiril are only really quarter bows, with the arms spread out in a guesture of good will. The eyes always remain on the other. This time, however, Anna's head inclined downward further than normal. It was a guesture of respect...and even of humility. A guesture not often made by the future queen of a nation so great as Kaymiril.*

Gre'as'anto tlu xuil dos, Valsharess d' Ssan. It is an honor to finally meet you. How have you been?

OOC: Gre'as'anto tlu xuil dos, Valsharess d' Ssan means "Peace be with you, Queen of Serpents." It's the closest you really get to "Sliver" in the Drow tongue.

"Quite frankly my dear, I have been slowly dying. I only wish to lay my final egg, my daughter, my true daughter. the Sliver who will reign after I am gone.I have not been able to, Perhaps some exercise is all I need. But I am weary, oh so weary." the Queen hissed in a manner which spoke of a life nearing its end.

"Tell me, how many species of sliver do you know of? there are many diffrent species, each with its own abilites, each with its own nich. Of all Slivers, I can say, without boasting, that I am the most important. I have an ability, that no machine or spell can perfectly match, called, the call. It is called the call, because it continually radiets from my body. It is a special energy which only effects slivers. It keeps them in control of their own powers, their own abilities. It keeps them from becoming homicidal maniacs. It is the price we pay for weilding our powers in the manner we do. the call counteracts this, relives the curse nothing can lift, so that we may thrive. This is how life survives. There is a saying that says that no matter what, life will find away. We are living proof of that. I fear what would happen, if I die without heir. Sure the Overlords were breed for such an emergency, but really, how long could they last?" The queen said

OOC: This really won't take off until SE and Balrogga get here.

How many types of sliver?
Aside from you, the Queen...overlord, muscle, flying, plated, hunter, reactor...synapse, spectral...I'm afraid those are all the species I'm familiar with.
It is fascinating, how your race survives. I have never met a member of any other race which has a similar need, or answers it in a similar way. I am sure fate will be kind enough to grant you your daughter.

*Mith narrows her eyes...could she find this energy pattern, this call. On the other side of the room, T'puuli was trying the same thing. Both mages thought they could sense it...not feel it, as the slivers did...but could they pull it off at all? Doubtful, Mith concluded...and diplomatically optimistic as Anna may have tried to be...the Gray class mage doubted that the Sliver Queen would last another twenty-four hours.*

OOC: Yeah.

OOC: A mage, any mage, would be able to feel something of the call, but it is so inherintly complex, that no one mage would be able to feel all sides of it. as for mith, As she is a healer, she can also feel the queens life slip away, as though pulled at by an outside force. we both know the Reason, the agreement made in the other thread. Its really up to you, but, I think mith should be able to put two and two tegether and figure out that the queen is aging faster because of the deal with death. You said that you had a translation sight for your drow language, I'd be intrested in seeing it.

IC: a pair of Synapse slivers enter the room. they are levitating a pair of trays full of steaming hot tea, and are offering it to each of the guests. A five Sliver team floats in a big silver trough for the queen. It to is full of steaming hot Tea. A tag on the side of the cup reads that this is Mephidross tea.

"When I give you the Tour, I shall introduce you fully to each breed of sliver." The Queen promised.

Anna nods, retires to her seat and accepts a cup of tea.

Mith sits, holding her cup and contemplating.

OOC: So, they all feel it...and between Mith and Renor, you've got the whole story. I'll TG you the site.

OOC:All the mages combined might be able to successfully accomplish 25% of the call, but, they would really have to concentrate on it because it is something Alien and really designed only for one race to use.

IC:"The Mephidross is a gigantic swamp covering 10%of Mirrodens surface. The Qicksilver there is more acidic than anything. Strange creatures can be seen lurking there sometimes. The acid and Toxin Slivers really seem to like it.
An Acid sliver naturally produces acid. It is uneffected by it, however the Acid itself is strong enough to eat through most metals. Toxin Slivers produce poison, and when near a Reactor sliver, are able to spawn new diseases. Slivers can infect other living things with this. Slivers are immune, but very rarely are other things. Anyways, in the Mephidross, Weeds grow wildly, while they are not good to eat, their roots make a very good blend of Tea. It is harmless, and has even been said to be relaxing.

OOC: I'm tired and don't feel well. I'm off to bed now. Good night everybody.

Cougar stepped out of the portal on the other side, and stared around him. "Very strange", said he, as the portal closed behind him, just as Renor had said. He noticed the entrance to the cave, not far from where he stood. Although he was alone on this planet, he had a feeling he would find the others. Walking softly, he moved into the cave, and found a large number of mages within. He recognised a few, but not all of the ones present. Mith, Anna, Renor and Rhenmet were the first to be recognised, and he felt sure that the gold and silver mages would return to him in time.
With no-one taking any notice of his arrrival, he sat quietly in a chair, experimenting with the Black Flame, and thinking about what he had done wrong. He did make note of two things though: first, the Queen Sliver looked in bad shape, and secondly, Warfare was now a woman. He smiled to himself, and settled down

OOC: A mage, any mage, would be able to feel something of the call, but it is so inherintly complex, that no one mage would be able to feel all sides of it. as for mith, As she is a healer, she can also feel the queens life slip away, as though pulled at by an outside force. we both know the Reason, the agreement made in the other thread. Its really up to you, but, I think mith should be able to put two and two tegether and figure out that the queen is aging faster because of the deal with death. You said that you had a translation sight for your drow language, I'd be intrested in seeing it.

IC: a pair of Synapse slivers enter the room. they are levitating a pair of trays full of steaming hot tea, and are offering it to each of the guests. A five Sliver team floats in a big silver trough for the queen. It to is full of steaming hot Tea. A tag on the side of the cup reads that this is Mephidross tea.

"When I give you the Tour, I shall introduce you fully to each breed of sliver." The Queen promised.

OOC: Yeah, I remeber you saying about a Drow translation site Kay, cud you TG it to me as well?

OOC: I don't really have anything to add. It's just really the mages talking to the Queen...and Cougar is officially the baby on this trip, lol. Anyway, I TG'd the site to both of you.

…Galvenor felt himself hurtling through nothingness as he was transported. Reality rippled for an instant and then ripped open, forming a ring like the one above the Tower. Moments later Galvenor was emerging from the gate and it vanished behind him.

Galvenor looked around himself. He examined several sights for a few minutes before he noticed a beckoning drawing him towards a cave. Keeping the illusionary representation of his body active, he floated into the cave to see what was going on and what was calling to him.


OOC:

Sorry, I just got home from wwork a little while ago.

OOC: I don't really have anything to add. It's just really the mages talking to the Queen...and Cougar is officially the baby on this trip, lol. Anyway, I TG'd the site to both of you.

OOC: Thanks. He feels really appreciated. Given the story, I reckon he's gonna be more useful than you imagine

OOC: Hey, this means that there are going to be people looking out for him. Namely, Renor and Rhenna are going to make sure he doesn't get too badly beaten. It's gotta be nice to have someone covering your hide. And really, think about it. Up until he showed up, Anna, age 79, was the youngest there.

OOC: Hey, this means that there are going to be people looking out for him. Namely, Renor and Rhenna are going to make sure he doesn't get too badly beaten. It's gotta be nice to have someone covering your hide. And really, think about it. Up until he showed up, Anna, age 79, was the youngest there.

OOC: Maybe, he is a solider, he's used to it. And the only reason he is so young, is because Humans, unlike Drow, do not live 400 yrs and more, contray to popular belief. I reckon I'm gonna have to let him get pissed off at some stage

OOC: Which is probably when he's going to get smacked upside the head. And yes, I know that humans don't live so long, I am one. Still...they've had more time to practice what they've been doing...Renor is not a weapons specialist, but he could probably hold his own in a sword fight. Rhenna is a mage, not a fighter, but she can crack a whip like anything. Mith...just don't piss her off. She's the oldest mortal currently there, at an impressive 713.

OOC: Which is probably when he's going to get smacked upside the head. And yes, I know that humans don't live so long, I am one. Still...they've had more time to practice what they've been doing...Renor is not a weapons specialist, but he could probably hold his own in a sword fight. Rhenna is a mage, not a fighter, but she can crack a whip like anything. Mith...just don't piss her off. She's the oldest currently there, at an impressive 713.

OOC: OK, OK, calm down! got your TG btw, check urs

OOC: I did, check yours. And House means region...it just didn't translate.

IC: Renor glances at Rhenna, who gets up and walks over to Cougar. She puts her hand on his shoulder, and he'd get the feeling of it is not the proper place or time to be working with your magick. She then returns to her seat.

"Well, enough chatter, I reckon you'd first like to see just how many sliver breeds there are. We'll start with the Queen. You see her before you. Although still vibrantly colored, she is dulling do to old age, younger slivers are rich, bright, and oh so Vibrantly colored. When not coiled up or holding herself erect, you know, when she's flat on the ground like any common species of Snake, she stands at 15 feet in diameter, and 200 feet in length." Lady warfare said.

"Come on, climb on my back, I'll take you to see my children, and explain their abilities from my point of view." The Queen hissed, suddenly seemingly full of life and energy.

She uncoils herself and her head lays just outside the cave. She thumps her tail on the ground, the impact is great enough to jar everybody a little bit.

"Come on!" She hisses with some excitement.

OOC: Really you should go now, an excited Sliver queen can really bash holes in the ground when she does that, however since the surface is metal... well, you get my drift.

The mages look at their Princess, who looks at Mith. Mith nods, and the Kaymirilians do as was requested of them and climb on the Queen Sliver's back.

"Well, enough chatter, I reckon you'd first like to see just how many sliver breeds there are. We'll start with the Queen. You see her before you. Although still vibrantly colored, she is dulling do to old age, younger slivers are rich, bright, and oh so Vibrantly colored. When not coiled up or holding herself erect, you know, when she's flat on the ground like any common species of Snake, she stands at 15 feet in diameter, and 200 feet in length." Lady warfare said.

"Come on, climb on my back, I'll take you to see my children, and explain their abilities from my point of view." The Queen hissed, suddenly seemingly full of life and energy.

She uncoils herself and her head lays just outside the cave. She thumps her tail on the ground, the impact is great enough to jar everybody a little bit.

"Come on!" She hisses with some excitement.

OOC: Really you should go now, an excited Sliver queen can really bash holes in the ground when she does that, however since the surface is metal... well, you get my drift.

OOC: Kay, I need the link tothe translation again. Lost it :(

IC: Cougar extinguished th Flame quickly, and led the way onto the Queens back, jumping up to a crag in the cliff, and jumping from there. He lent down, and offered his hand to whoever wanted it

OOC: TG'd.

IC: The Queen being more than wide enough, Rhenna seats herself next to Cougar, but behind Renor. Renor sat behind T'puuli and Plak'la, who sat behind Princess Annastrianna.

Rn -- "So, Cougar...he give you the same lecture he gave me?"

OOC: Balrogga I know you would jump on, We'll assume you went to the back.
Don't worry, I'll give you "Something" to play with later.

IC: feeling that everyone was aboard, The Queen moved out. Slithering at 5 miles an hour first, she quickly speed up to 60 miles an hour. She moved like a train. she slowed down and came to a halt where some slivers were experimenting with their powers in a Razor grass field. the were Young Plated slivers, from the very first Brood the Queen layed. They Quickly halted and came to attention.

"These are plated slivers, as you can see, their scales are tougher and thicker than most." The Queen says.

Her Scales suddenly thicken and become similar to Plate Mail.

"Their special ability is to give that same toughness and thickness to other Slivers. My scales became as thick and tough as they are, because there are five of them here." The Queen hissed. She hissed something in Sliverese and the a plated sliver climbed on her back so that she could Slither through the razor grass fields. She then Slithered on, once again reaching 60 miles an hour.

This is a razor Grass field, when the wind blows, you can here it chime in the wind. Each blade of grass is just that, a razor. With out the Plated on my back, I would get sliced to pieces in these fields, as would any other thing with out some form of protection. these fields are the sole reason for the plated slivers existence, we are however experimenting with their abilities in battle." the queen hissed.

You could see where the Queen slithered through the field as behind her the Razor grass lay matted over.

Rn -- *Calling up to the front* These seem to have learned their abilities fairly quickly, if they are the same ones I watched hatch.

"No, yours was the tenth brood at 25 slivers a piece. these were born a few years ago. I am going to show you one of the mysterious towers that stand at places around Mirroden. They have written words on them we can't read because we have no written language. every time we ge close, they simply disappear. their was a human who came to Mirroden once who could read it, we know, we watched from a distance. Unfortunatly he died in the Mephidross." The Queen hissed.

The Queen comes to and stops by a large tower, Glowing white words, appear on its surface as one comes closer.

"Please, one of you tell me what it says." the Queen hissed.
The words, recognizing a species with a written language, shift and become Drow, some words appearing in common:

"Ghil fre'slan l' wa'q d' Eons. Ol uriu stood ghil yol l' beginning d' Draeval vel'drav Mirroden zhahus ust formed. Ol zhal fre'sla verve p'luin l' vaen drada uriu ticked a.

Draeval, saph dro, chu lu' gos, drill wun tu'fyr zhah vel'klar l' seke healing ulnen."

At the base are scores of Essence SLivers and colorless slivers.

OOC: I do know what it says OOCly, but the Queen doesn't.

Anna stands up, but is beaten to the translation by Plak'la.

"The Tower of Eons...I wondered if it existed...The words translate:

'Here stands the tower of Eons. It has stood here since the beginning of Time when Mirroden was first formed. It shall stand long after the last second has ticked.

Time, like life, comes and goes, but in between is where the true healing lies.'"

OOC: If you can't get the words to translate directly, you can play around with them. For example, when you type in "do," then you translate the word you got back into English, you get "accomplish." In my signature, the last word, "vrine'winith" means "stop" which was the closest I could get to "fade"

Almost as if it sensed the weak sliver Queen, a bright white energy broadcasts out, any touched by the enrgy, feel, well, perfect. In truth the Tower of Eons posses near miracules healing abilities. the Queen perks up greatly, and her color seems to seep back in.

"The slivers you see before you are of two diffrent breeds. the White ones are known as Essence slivers. The study here under the Tower of Eons because of its healing abilities. They to posses healing abilities, and study under it in an attempt to better their own powers. The ones that are a dull gray are known as colorless slivers. They posses no special abilities of their own, but can still share Sliver abilities with other breeds. When a Reactor sliver is near an essence Sliver the Essence sliver, and all those sharing its ability, gain an even better grip on their healing powers." The queen hissed.

The Queen circles the tower a few times, picks a random direction, and slither out, towards an orande cloud of energy.

Mith examined the Tower as best she could. Plak'la had recognised it as the Tower of Eons...but could it be that the Tower of Eons was also Nindel Vel'bolen O'gothen Jal Klezn? Was it possible? It matched all descriptions she had ever heard...but here, on a planet of metal? Why on a planet of metal, of all places?

OOC: If the Queen is weakening and you need her to hold out a bit longer, let me know. Mith, being a healer, can infuse her with enough fashka to keep her going.

OOC: Actualy the tower gave just what was needed.

IC:The Queen stopped dead center of the Golden energy.
"This is the Æther which protects us, helps us, is our constant companion. We're immune to its deadly effects, however, many years of learning have given us the ability to control it. Right now, I am preventing it from harming you. The Æther is naturally radioactive, and is highly toxic, poisonus, however you wish to discribe it. Being in its presence uninvited causes it to eat away at your skin, if you stay in it long enough, you would surley die. When we die, Sliver bodies turn into Æther and protect the younger generations. Æther exists on Riptide as well. this is a concentrated spot. no matter where you go on Riptide or Mirroden, the Æther is always there." The queen hissed. The queen moved on.

OOC: Everyone can feel "Something"prickling on their skin. this is the presence of Æther. in low unconcentrated doses, on can survive for 72 hours. In a cloud 5 minutes or less.

T -- *Analysing the AEther* It does seem very hightly radioactive...much like you would expect to find in open space.

OOC: TG'd.

IC: The Queen being more than wide enough, Rhenna seats herself next to Cougar, but behind Renor. Renor sat behind T'puuli and Plak'la, who sat behind Princess Annastrianna.

Rn -- "So, Cougar...he give you the same lecture he gave me?"

Cougar waited a few moments before replying,"Yes, he did. But in Basic, not in Drow." He looked around again, then lowered his voice,"How long do you think she (The Queen) will last?"

Rhenna shakes her head. "Not long...but I'm not the one who could give you a best estimate...the feel of death hangs about her heavily...but for now, she is alive."

The Queen comes to a stop by what seems to be a qiant sheet of metal. Tall towers rise as islands in the distance.
"This is the Quicksilver sea, covering nearly 50% of Mirroden, It acts just like water. It is drinkable, but, well, you do get an awful lot of iron in your diet that way. I, I am weary, oh so weary, I need, some rest." The queen hissed in an tired manner.

Her color quickly fades.

"I need a simple nap, I well be ready to go soon." The queen hissed.

Laying her head down and closing her eyes, the queen dies right there on the metal beach. Orange whisps of Æther begin to rise from her body. Quickly it becomes a cloud and her body is no more. HEr spirit is seen entering the afterlife. The plated Sliver lets out a long mournful hiss and slithers off. Lady warfare appears.

"NOOOO!!! Not without an heir! it wasn't suppossed to be like this!" Lady warfare cried.

"HEHEHEHE, Seems I got the better end of the deal no didn't I? I know more than YOU gave me credit for. No I'll get you entire nation, You overlords will soon fall into chaos, They'll bicker with each other and then send their Slivers to fight and destroy each other. In the end, I'll be the only winner, and you will be a powerless fool, sent to join the other powerless ones to cry and beat on yourself for the rest of eternity. hehehaha" Death Rasped. His voice disembodied.

"We'll see who gets who."Lady warfare determined.
"My friends, I apologize for this, but I must now Seal Mirroden entirly, nothing gets in, nothing gets out. EVER!. I must save my children from Deaths grasp. I will be right back." Lady Warfare promised.

Lady Warfare blinked out. As she did, all of creation went dark for a moment and then relit. Lady warfare never returns.

OOC: And so begins part 2. The Mirari will be made in my next post.

A -- Xsa...one life was not worth thousands, Renor.

R -- These were consequences unforseen. Well...looks like we're here for a bit.

M -- That is an understatement.

T -- Mith, you remember the anti-radiation medicine we talked about?

M -- Yes. I formulated it.

T -- Well, now would be a good time to conjure some. Can you?

M -- *The Gray class mage concentrates for several moments, and seven ((six Drow, one human)) vials of liquid materialize, created from thin air in exchange for energy. For good measure, some mists through Galvenor* Drink this, everyone. It should protect you from the radiation...I warn you, though, it is extremely bitter.

The Drow drink theirs. Training prevents them from showing a physical reaction to the burning bitterness of the liquid.

A -- Mith, as soon as you can make that an injection instead, let me know.

Cougar swallowed the liquid himself, noting the bitter taste, with some fairly obvious disgust on his face. Once he got used to it, he stood tall, and spoke,"We could have a small problem. If the Call is all that prevented the Slivers from becoming basically killing machines, then that call no longer exists. Basically, they are going to go mental. And we are stuck in the very middle of it all"

Rn -- Well, I would that you would give us some little bit of credit for being fairly experienced mages...

R -- But if you want to have a pity-party, you may have it on your own.

A -- Enough of this. I want solutions, people.

T -- Well as of...time frame, Plak'la...

P -- Two minutes ago...

T -- ...The planet sealed itself. I've never encountered a phenomenon like this before...we cannot teleport off...nor can we open portals. We need to figure out how to solve the greater problem, but we need to know what that problem is, in its entirety.

M -- Perhaps there will be a hint at Nindel Vel'bolen O'gothen Jal Klezn -- your Tower of Eons, Plak'la.

A -- Shall we go, then?

The mages nod, and bring out their gliders.

Rn -- D'anthe, standing room for two. Come on, Cougar...you won't be able to get across the razor grass on your own. *She steps onto her glider and holds out her hand.*

Rn -- Well, I would that you would give us some little bit of credit for being fairly experienced mages...

R -- But if you want to have a pity-party, you may have it on your own.

A -- Enough of this. I want solutions, people.

T -- Well as of...time frame, Plak'la...

P -- Two minutes ago...

T -- ...The planet sealed itself. I've never encountered a phenomenon like this before...we cannot teleport off...nor can we open portals. We need to figure out how to solve the greater problem, but we need to know what that problem is, in its entirety.

M -- Perhaps there will be a hint at Nindel Vel'bolen O'gothen Jal Klezn -- your Tower of Eons, Plak'la.

A -- Shall we go, then?

The mages nod, and bring out their gliders.

Rn -- D'anthe, standing room for two. Come on, Cougar...you won't be able to get across the razor grass on your own. *She steps onto her glider and holds out her hand.*

He took her hand gratefully, and stepped onto the glider next to her,"Man, Renor is really pissed off with me at the moment. If only Warfare hadn't sealed Mirroden, then I reckon he would teleport me away from here"

The gliders start moving forward, going at an average rate of a hundred mph (162 kph, SE), back toward the Tower of Eons.

Rn -- Probably, for your own protection. I doubt he's angry with you...more like angry about this entire situation...it was something he was powerless to prevent, and it's not something he or anyone here are accustomed to, powerlessness.

The gliders start moving forward, going at an average rate of a hundred mph (162 kph, SE), back toward the Tower of Eons.

Rn -- Probably, for your own protection. I doubt he's angry with you...more like angry about this entire situation...it was something he was powerless to prevent, and it's not something he or anyone here are accustomed to, powerlessness.

I can see the logic behind it. Wrong place at wrong time I guess. Oh, and for the record, I don't doubt you could all handle anything the Slivers come up with, but you've gotta understand, this is all new terrority for me*looks at her, then out over the grass, zipping beneath them*. But I doubt anybody here understands

Rn -- A place and situation like this is new to us, as well. However...we have to try and resolve it, for by doing what we can, live or die, we don't go lying down. Part of basic training is problem solving...that's what I've been teaching the past few decades, in Rendelmar. Stick around awhile, you might learn something.

Rn -- A place and situation like this is new to us, as well. However...we have to try and resolve it, for by doing what we can, live or die, we don't go lying down. Part of basic training is problem solving...that's what I've been teaching the past few decades, in Rendelmar. Stick around awhile, you might learn something.

Practical problem solving, a neccesity for any mage or solider. No Sliver is going to be taking me down, at least not yet. I'll cover you all whilst you check the Tower, I can't read Drow

T -- *telepathically, to Cougar* No one stands guard all alone. It has been decided that you, Renor, and Rhenmet will stand guard, while Princess Anna, myself, Plak'la, and Mith see what we can find. Orders from Princess Annastrianna, who is the highest ranking person we happen to have here at the moment, young as she may be. Pass on the decision to Rhenmet.

T -- *telepathically, to Cougar* No one stands guard all alone. It has been decided that you, Renor, and Rhenmet will stand guard, while Princess Anna, myself, Plak'la, and Mith see what we can find. Orders from Princess Annastrianna, who is the highest ranking person we happen to have here at the moment, young as she may be. Pass on the decision to Rhenmet.

Agreed. Annastrianna is the highest ranking here, and I was told to follow her commands by Lord Barbarossa

"Rhenna. You, Renor and myself will be standing guard. Anna's orders"

For no appeant reason A blindingly bright white flash occured. All mages could feel the call once again, but this time, it was, somehow, diffrent. Any one looking at another person would now see only a blur. When someone moved, an after image of them moving would continuosly go. A voice spoke in everyones mind.

"I am the Mirari, I am power, pure and absolute. whoever finds me first, may have the wish of their choice. " The Mirari Whispered.

At the core

The Mirari was sitting there. floating in Molten Darksteel. To Lady Warfares horror. a very visible twist in the Time/Space continuum formed. It spread slowly outwards, through the molten metal, absorbing it twisting, making it into a new shape. Lady Warfare tried to destroy it, but the second he fist struck the Mirari, it began absorbing her. She tried to flee to her other body, but even her spirit was being absorbed. Soon she was no more. As the twist continued, it made Death reform. In his limited power he thought:
"What's this, I am made anew? I must regain all of my power, that orb, it has great powers, I shall join its powers with my own limitless ones and be invincible."
However, Death met the same fate. Thoughts rippled across the Mirari's mind. Death, life, kindness, cruelty. It had to keep the Slivers alive, yet they were as pawns in its powers. The Mortals were free to make a wish, yet, no, something else told it, they didn't want a wish, they wanted its powers for itself, it must protect itself no matter the cost, they would destroy it, the Mirari must act first. Another voice told it it was being foolish. It reached through to the Afterlife, and pulled the Queen back, but she no longer had the powers of the call. Her mind was elsewher, concentrating on her own body, working on something. A smile played on her Reptillian lips. No matter, the Mirari had other resources. It reached with its power and mind across Mirroden.
"Awaken, awaken after all these years and serve your planet once again. I am you master, do as I say, stop the Mortals from reaching me, even if it means their death. Protect me, for I am your only hope. " The Mirari whispered.

OOC: The Mages can not hear the Mirari awakening your, "Challenges" but can sense that something is wrong with the Timeline. Your time Mage can further sense, that the Past, present, and Future are now one thing. All time is irrelevant. Your Space MAge cannot sense anything outside of Mirroden, its as though it no longer existed. Who all has something metal on. I know everyone has Iron in their bloodstreams, this shall be important presantly.

OOC: Kaymirilians do not tend to wear jewelry, so they aren't wearing metal, but all the gliders are made of metal.

IC:

Plak'la and T'puuli simultaneously stop dead in their tracks. Anna wheels around, as do Renor and Rhenmet.

A -- What's wrong?

P -- Time...past, present, future...it's all the same. Whatever just happened...the temporal continuum has been thrown into chaos.

T -- Mirroden is...all I can sense. Generally I can sense the shift of the stars, or spectral bodies...there were thirty nine major ones in this system when we came in...I feel nothing else now.

P -- I am consolidating time all around us, for our own sanity...we must get to the Tower.

*The gliders blaze onwards as fast as they can, their speeds now exceeding four hundred mph in the haste of their masters to get where they are going.*

OOC: Kaymirilians do not tend to wear jewelry, so they aren't wearing metal, but all the gliders are made of metal.

IC:

Plak'la and T'puuli simultaneously stop dead in their tracks. Anna wheels around, as do Renor and Rhenmet.

A -- What's wrong?

P -- Time...past, present, future...it's all the same. Whatever just happened...the temporal continuum has been thrown into chaos.

T -- Mirroden is...all I can sense. Generally I can sense the shift of the stars, or spectral bodies...there were thirty nine major ones in this system when we came in...I feel nothing else now.

P -- I am consolidating time all around us, for our own sanity...we must get to the Tower.

*The gliders blaze onwards as fast as they can, their speeds now exceeding four hundred mph in the haste of their masters to get where they are going.*


Cougar felt, for the first time in many years, a pang of real fear. He was actually scared. He quelled his fear, using a breathing technique taught to him at the training centre. In the distance, he could see the Tower of Eons, rapaidly coming towards him. And all this time, he could hear a voice that he didn't recognise in the back of his head

The Mirari was thinking. "I must stop them, but how? they are over the Razorgrass now. there is enough energy within Mirroden. It is time it was released."

A bolt of energy struck the planet. On the surface. The entire Razorgrass field clacked together and stayed. the Gliders and all other metal began to decend to the surface, as one of Mirrodens natural wonders occured. A magnetic storm. Magnetic storms occure when a high amount of electricity has been charged within the planet itself. When the Gliders touched the surface, they would be stuck there. The Magnetisim was so powerful, it even pulled at the Iron in the bloodstream. thus, all on the gliders were trapped on the Gliders, due to extreme magnitisim.


OOC: Basically Mirroden has become a super Electromagnet. The Electricity is flowing in a regular circut around the planet The QuickSilver Ocean has become Solid, as has the Mephidross Swamp. It will only last five minuets total, ICly. Basically it will end with your and SE's post. so, take that into consideration. It is powerfull enough to force your gliders all the way down to the field.

Rn -- I do not blame you for your fear, Cougar...I sense a deadly threat.

*Mith blazed on ahead of the group, flying right up to the Tower of Eons*

M -- Usstan tlun Mith, uss vel'uss o'gothen. Gaer zhah natha mayar nindel jal dro orn tlu elggat. Ka dos truly ph' Nindel Vel'bolen O'gothen Jal Klezn, pahntar, lu' tlu'og udossa dortho.

OOC: Brb, dinner.

OOC:Your going to have to TG me and tell me what you mean by Miths statement Kay.

OOC: Thank God for obsidian blades. Warhaven, I translated the text for you:
I am Grey, one who heals. There is a chance that all alive will be destroyed. If you truly are That Which Heals All Things, open, and lend us aid.

IC: Cougar turned to Rhenna,"I sense it too. There is something far greater at work here. Also, do you hear that voice?"

OOC: No I mean TG me and tell me what she means by opening up and providing aid.

*Nods* It does not bode well.

*As the gliders slammed into the razor grass, the riders instinctively tilted back just a little, to prevent them from damage. Razors snapped as the gliders snapped into them...while not DarkSteel, they were indeed strong. Rhenmet puts a hand on Cougar's shoulder to steady him.*

OOC: She wants answers, and that's her only clue about where to find them.

Despite Rhenna's steadying hand, Cougar felt himself pulled towards the surface of the planet. A slightly unnerving sensation to say the least

Rn -- Hold steady, just a minute. This won't last long.

Rn -- Hold steady, just a minute. This won't last long.

He gripped her shoulder in kind,"Same goes for you. I hope this doesn't last long, its already weird enough for my liking"

OOC: Sorry, had to sort laundry fast.

IC:

Rhenna nods, and braces herself to wait through the storm. Xsa, we should have brought Aeros or Olath'yukin. They'd have some way to counter this.

OOC: Sorry, had to sort laundry fast.

IC:

Rhenna nods, and braces herself to wait through the storm. Xsa, we should have brought Aeros or Olath'yukin. They'd have some way to counter this.

OOC: Fair enough. Ok, I got nothing else

OOC: TG me how to get MSN messenger, will you?

OOC: TG me how to get MSN messenger, will you?

OOC:It isnt going very fast tonight, so I'll tell you here. Go to www.msn.com, and inf the tab near the top that says 'Messanger'. Of course, you need a Hotmail account to get it to work

OOC: Crap. All I have is a Yahoo account. I love how you can work AIM without having to have an AOL account.

OOC: Crap. All I have is a Yahoo account. I love how you can work AIM without having to have an AOL account.


OOC: It mite work with a Yahoo account. After all, I know people using all sorts of stuff on MSN, its worth a shot

OOC: I'm trying it.

OOC: I'm trying it.

OOC: Mite as well. Check ur TG's

As the Magnetic Storm passed, the runes on the Tower of Eons shifted.
They now read: "What is it you want?"

As the Magnetic Storm passed, the runes on the Tower of Eons shifted.
They now read: "What is it you want?"

OOC: Its looking good, but thts me for this evening. Gd' night all

We want knowledge about what's happening, and knowledge about what this new power is.

*The gliders come from off the ground, somewhat scratched, and they rejoin Mith. Rhenna releases her grip on Cougar's shoulder.*

"You must find the Tower of Fortunes. It, and only it can tell you what you seek. I know not where it lies, but go north by northeast, and surely you will find another who can help you." The Tower read.

Across Mirroden ancient Living machines had reawakened. The Myr were watching, simply watching. this was their task. the Myr were watching the Gliders and their occupants, sending their knowledge to the Myr Matrix in turn, the Myr matrix sent it to the Mirari. The Mirari was waiting, planning. It must not let them Reach it. They must not find the entrance to the interior of Mirroden. The Mirari pulsed with its power. Near the tower of Eons, a cyclone formed, but, this was no ordinary Cyclone. This was an Elder Air elemental, under direct control of the Mirari. It blew towards the tower, and surrounded it. It was directly attacking everybody.

Wind screens shot up around the gliders, but they themselves started to spin around.

A -- "Natha Aterruce d'lil Su'aco Raxoll? Llaar, nin..."

Anna brings her hands up, and a glowing white light shines brightly between them.

"Ssussun lueth Oloth, Quarth lu' Vhid, Usstan M'elzar d'lil Ust Quarth, Quarth dos ulu Sevir."

Power welled up around her. Draining the energy of the Elemental itself, she then turned that energy against it...it destoyed itself on its own winds.

A -- "We should have just brought everyone, no?"

T -- But we didn't...we now do what we can.

A -- North by northeast, people, let's move.

The gliders, six in all, wheeled around and blazed off in the direction indicated.

"She defeated it as though it were nothing!" thought the Mirari. "I shall twist all directions. They will now head south by south east. North will be inaccessible, unless they talk to the OTHER tower. Damn mages. I will test them for now, then I'll destroy them. These mages are as nothing before me! Wait, whats this? A rust storm? How, what, yes, I see, I must rid them of their Gliders, not even the Darksteel can withstand a Rust storm, nothing can." Th glider continued to think, advised by the absorbed Death.
Warfare's consultations were ignored, mainly because they consisted of giving up, and releasing her. The Queen had grown quite fat. she had made her Last Egg, her daughter, but it wasn't quite ready yet.

Anna and the others were now over the Quick Silver sea, The Spires really were Islands. An angry red cloud boiled in the distance. Quicker than even a trained mage could react, All was incompassed by the Rust storm, the Quick Silver Sea, the Islands, even Anna, and the others. the Gliders were quickly choked with Rust. Still the Myr watched, from benath the Quick silver Sea this time. Watched, by the Matrix itself.

OOC: I expect some sort of a vixctory on this. I was hoping for more than a banishing with the air elemental. don't worry, in the end you'll get your gliders back, brand new, and you'll still be able to fly around Mirroden in the meant time. I hate the Mirari, its an evil physcopathic S.O.B. You all will win eventually.

OOC:For Balrogga. I don't want you to feel left out, so.

IC: The Mirari crackled with energy. The Myr observed a shadow being trailiong the mortals.
"This one could be trouble." it thought. More energy Crackled, and the Physcic Membrane awakened. It trailed silently after Galvenor, then reaching with a thought, slammed Galvenor with a physcic attack.


OOC: This is your first chance to play Balrogga. The Physcic Membrane is intent on destroying you. It is intelligent, and has a complete set of physcic abilities. I apologize if I spelt Physcic wrong. It will learn, and adapt to your abilities, its power rivals your own. I will be asleep mostly while your on, so, I shall let you RP it all on your own, two post minimum please.
SE, your turns tomorrow. I am off to bed, good night all.

Cougar spluttered as the rust storm hit the group. Looking down, he saw that the glider was becoming choked with rust. All his sense screamed that this would stop them in their tracks. He glanced at Rhenna, and then out over the plain. The storm was so thick, he couldn't see 3ft in front of his face.

What the hell is doing this? First that time distortion, then the EM Storm, and now this? Warfare, what is going on here?

OOC: I'm guessing his thoughts reflect everyones

A -- *levitating of her own ability* Glider, phor, nin.

The other mages are reacting similarly, putting up screens against the rust, and calling their gliders, which changed form to be able to remain with their masters, to a safe spot on their cloaks.

Rn -- "Heeth d'lil Maelthra"

As she and Cougar began to fall, wings and a tail sprouted and grew. Catching Cougar, she unfurled her wings and beat them, keeping herself and him aloft easily.

Rn -- You wanted to know what it feels like to fly, Cougar?

A -- *Nods to T'puuli, who broadcasts her thoughts strictly to the other's minds.

We shouldn't be here. This sea was south of the tower...let's go east, and later we can turn north. We will get where we need to go, and I don't care what sort of fala zatoast machine attempts to stand in our way. We move.

R -- Rhenna, let him go. *Creates a floating disk under Cougar, and Rhenna sets him down on that. The mages turn east, and start going.*

*T'puuli stays behind in case Galvenor needs help...this was her secondary ability, psychics.*

OOC: Of course they'll still be able to fly...the gliders are more convenience than necessity.

If you had fallen to the Islands You would have made some sliver allies, oh well, not now. After breakfast, I'll send you some more entertainment.

OOC: They're flying pretty high...a fall would have been dangerous. They're levitating lower than they were flying, but they don't fall. Give hints sometimes, geez. But if we're without allies, oh well. I trust my mages to come up with solutions. However...

IC:

R -- Princess, perhaps it would be wisest to land and attempt to repair our gliders. Levitation requires energy, and we do not know what sort of challenges we will be facing.

A -- Fine...we only stop for an hour, though, and if we cannot repair them within that time frame, we head off.

The mages find a safe-looking place to land, and start trying to clean the rust from their transportation devices.

R -- Cougar, stand guard...if you see anything coming, let us know.

They had been there for perhaps 15 minuets when a small group of winged slivers cautiously poked their heads out from behind various boulders and other hiding places.

"They're real!" exclaimed one Sliver.
"They aren't like the others!" Exclaimed another.
Cautiously, almost as if the Slivers expected Anna and the others to disappear at any second, the slivers crept forward.

"Pardon me," Said one brave sliver, "But, are you real, or are you real, and then again not real, like the other Slivers on this island, and many others?"The Sliver asked.

OOC:Sorry Kay, it was late at night and I was tired when I wrote that. I'll give better OOC hints next time.

Renor had fully stood when the Slivers approached, but relaxed, as they did not seem on the verge of attack.

"If your definition of real is that we are corporeal beings that can only be in one place at one time, then yes, we are real."

T'puuli rolled her eyes at the Black Class mage, then turned to the Slivers.

"We are real, at least, as real as we can be. About the Real/Not real problem...there's a problem with the space/time continuum on this planet. We're trying to go fix it, as soon as we repair our transports."

The Drow had been cleaning the rust out of and off of their gliders, with small amounts of success. In all likelihood, they'd need a major rehaul when and if the mages returned to Kaymiril.

OOC: I cannot warn if I don't get advance warning.

Cougar sat in a small tree, a little way from the mages. Bar the Slivers, he hadn't seen or heard anything move at all. Still, it payed to be cautious. His pistol was in his right hand, and he could hit a moving target at 50 yards with the weapon.
As the Slivers approached, he dropped noiselessly out of the tree, and spiralled in towards the mages. He stopped next to Renor, and spoke without looking at him,"Any chance they can be fixed? If not, what do we do? Foot, or levitate?"

R -- Levitation is faster than going by foot...aside from that...do you really want to swim that far?

Very true. This is getting weirder and weirder by the minute

Rn -- Interesting descriptor.

How do you mean? It's not like these events are everyday occurences are they. And don't forget that Voice. Trust me, something, somewhere has fucked up

" It would appear your transports are broken. Levitation takes power. There are many dangerous things on this planet. Allow use to fly you where you wish. We know this planet quite well. We are strong, so do not worry for us. No, please, climb on. Place your feet in front of our wings to allow for an unhindered flight." the Sliver said.

" It would appear your transports are broken. Levitation takes power. There are many dangerous things on this planet. Allow use to fly you where you wish. We know this planet quite well. We are strong, so do not worry for us. No, please, climb on. Place your feet in front of our wings to allow for an unhindered flight." the Sliver said.

I have never heard a more gracious offer. I for one would be glad to take you up on the offer

OOC: Gotta go 4 t, bac soon

The slivers slithered to the edge of the tower island, and waited for riders.

Anna looked at the slivers, then at the mages. She thinks a bit, then nods.

"We thank you."

The Drow climb onto the Winged Slivers, putting thier feet in front of the wings, as requested, Rhenmet first transforming back into a drow so that her wings/tail didn't cause additional wind resistance.

Cougar holstered his pistol on his thigh, before olbliging with the Sliver's wishes, and placing his feet in front of the wings. He looked around, everyone else was ready

Rn -- this is as close to flying on your own wings you'll get, Cougar...enjoy.

R -- *looks at his apprentice*

Rn -- Inside joke.

R -- I see.

Rn -- this is as close to flying on your own wings you'll get, Cougar...enjoy.

R -- *looks at his apprentice*

Rn -- Inside joke.

R -- I see.

Cougar waited until Renor turned away, and then rolled his eyes at Rhenmet, as if to say Haha, very funny

Rhenna shrugs, then looks ahead.

Despite himself, Cougar couldn't help laughing at her, albeit silently. As they were at the back, nobody else would notice, but he felt sure that she would

Rhenna turns her head slightly and notices Cougar's amusement. She shakes her head and smirks at him.

*Raises an eyebrow, and pushes a message to her, and her alone* And what, pray tell my dear friend, is the cause for this smirk?

As he did so, his hands came up to his neck, extracting a silver pendent from beneath his clothing. It was small, but obviously held great significance to him

She doesn't move, but words flash in front of Cougar's eyes. (well, rather, across his mind's eye) You're laughing at me, so why shouldn't I laugh at you?

OOC: Rhenna's not a telepath. T'puuli is, and Anna's somewhat telepathic/highly empathic.

The Slivers slither off the tower, seemingly falling into the QuickSilver sea. At what seems like the last minute, they pull up and are flying high in the air.
"Which way?" the Sliver carrying Anna asks.

After getting a reply, they turn and fly in that direction.

She doesn't move, but words flash in front of Cougar's eyes. (well, rather, across his mind's eye) You're laughing at me, so why shouldn't I laugh at you?

Damn mages and your incesent logic. Anyway, you're not laughing, you're smirking, its a whole different ballgame

The Slivers slither off the tower, seemingly falling into the QuickSilver sea. At what seems like the last minute, they pull up and are flying high in the air.
"Which way?" the Sliver carrying Anna asks.

After getting a reply, they turn and fly in that direction.


A -- East. The land keeps shifting, so we're going to have to kind of go around our destination before we get there.

Rn -- It is a show of amusement. And if you don't like us and our incessant logic, well, fine. *Holds her head up haughtily*

Cougar realized his mistake You know what I meant Rhenna. It wasn't aimed at you directly, you know that. Sensing his position was fragile, he took a new approach Anyway, logic dictates everything. So it makes sense to be incessently logical *extends his hand in spirit*

And now you're scrambling for ground. Humans...such funny creatures.

OOC: It's so funny, watching these two flirt.

And now you're scrambling for ground. Humans...such funny creatures.

OOC: It's so funny, watching these two flirt.

I could say the same about Drow. And yes, I am scrambling. *hangs head in shame, but his eyes are bright*

OOC: Yes, Yes it is

Well...just so you know...there isn't any ground in the sky. Which is where we happen to be right now. So don't fall off the Sliver, or you have a long swim ahead of you.

Well...just so you know...there isn't any ground in the sky. Which is where we happen to be right now. So don't fall off the Sliver, or you have a long swim ahead of you.

Thanks. I love having my intelligence insulted by a Drow. It makes me feel so secure*Sarcasm laces this message*

Awww...I'd pat you on the head, but you're kind of far away.

*Private thought...he's kind of cute when he's sarcastic. Cute in a little kid kind of way...but he is only 26.

They Fly, and soon, they Fly into the Mephidross Swamp.

The Mirari Smirks, or, at least it would if it was capable of smirking. It boils up a rolling death cloud from the swamps.

The last sliver, the one carrying couger, looks back behind him, instinct telling him to do so. He suddenly strains as hard as he can to fly faster.
In a terrified hiss he screams "DEATH CLOUD!!!"
All the slivers suddenly start flying faster. Alas, no Reactor Slivers are near, so they cannot fly at Mach speeds

"Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated, but beware, magic only strengthens it. thats is a Death cloud, made up of the Acidic Swamp waters. If we had great energy, we could go to Mach speeds. But no Reactor sliver is nearby. Thats what the do, they great energy, we draw upon it, and can use new or extended abilities." Anna's Sliver Hisses.

OOC: Oh, hes gonna love that one

IC: *Rolls his eyes once again*Thanks for the offer. I'm gonna have to decline though, as much as it pains me to say it* Smiles at her again

PRIVATE THINKING: I wonder... after yesterday? Maybe it could work... somehow

A -- T'puuli, Plak'la.

T & P -- Siyo.

T - Aradhara t'bedva rhish na s'tval, Medrha Assoda Tiir!

P -- *simultaneously* Rhedro ke'are dasha n'val, kedros advar mealbat.

Energy surrounds and infuses the winged slivers.

On her Sliver, Rhenmet turns around.

"Su'acon d' Drostan, Kus l' Sariya TARTHE"

A wind starts to push the cloud back.

Cougar was forced to watch once again, and something began to bite at him:
I'm the only one who cannot help. God, it pisses me off so much. Maybe Rhenna was right, maybe I am a hindarance after all

OOC: BTW, that last thought was public, so all mages can hear it. Not intentional though, accident

T -- There is a purpose to all things, Cougar. You have not found yours yet. There is no one here that was not meant to be here...as I'm sure Plak'la could tell you better. Your purpose here will be revealed, before all is said and done. Oh...and this is from Renor: *voice over, Renor's voice* Quit whining. If you weren't capable of doing something right, you wouldn't still be alive.

To Renor and T'puuli Yeah I know. I'm sorry, especially to you Renor

Rn -- I know they may seem a bit hard on you, James...but you have to understand.This is a situation where the possibility of death is very real. I'm sure you've realized that. We cannot afford to have anyone feeling sorry for him or herself...pity parties tend to lessen effectiveness, and the amount of effort put in....and feelings of helplessness often fulfill themselves in your actions.

Rn -- I know they may seem a bit hard on you, James...but you have to understand.This is a situation where the possibility of death is very real. I'm sure you've realized that. We cannot afford to have anyone feeling sorry for him or herself...pity parties tend to lessen effectiveness, and the amount of effort put in....and feelings of helplessness often fulfill themselves in your actions.

Let them be harsh, its nothing compared to the SHADOW instructors. And I don't just know we could all die here, I accept that we could die. It's part of the job. Time for a resolution methinks: No more self pity. And I believe I'll be more useful later. There are things that cannot be accomplished by magick alone. Oh, and Rhenna... Thank you for using my proper name

The slivers, shocked at finding themselves full of energy slow for a moment before remembering what was boiling their way towards them. Wings glow and scales grow around the riders legs to keep them on for a split second before everyone takes off at Mach 10. The Mirari, furious whips up a counterwind but the slivers are to fast. soon they leave the Mephidross and enter the Tangle a vast Forest like twist of metal A tower looms in the distance. On the otherside of the tangle lie what appear to be ancient battle grounds. In the Middle of it all rises an ancient tower. Words light up the sides.
"Ghil fre'slan l' Wa'q d' Champions. Ol erected oltan l' tangi l' ves ust blow zhahus struck wun self defence. Ol zhal fre'sla verve p'luin l' vaen thalack zhah malaruth.

Seke z'ress zhah muth naut xuileb, drill wund."

What does that say? inquires Miths Sliver.

M -- "Here stands the Tower of Champions. It erected itself the day the very first blow was struck in self defence. It shall stand long after the last war is fought.

True power is found not without, but within."

*to her Sliver* Can you take me closer?

Rn -- Mirroden...*reflectively, like there's something about the name and tower's that's nagging at her.* Enter my den *thought* what?

Cougar started at the voice inside his head.... What the hell was that?

OOC: "Enter my den" was a flashing thought across Rhenna's mind. If he heard that, he's going to have to ask her. And she doesn't know what it is, either.

The Sliver flies forward, the others land and rest their wings.

The Mirari schemes. It too hears Cougers broadcast thoughts. It pulses with power. All around the now landed Couger space turns a pale sickly green, and goes away. Couger can see the others still, but its as though they aren't there.

Resounding quite clearly in the air, everyone can hear the Mirari saying:
"SO, YOU THINK YOU HAVE POWER? YOU THINK YOU CAN CHALLENGE MY INFINITE ABILITIES? FINE THEN, I CHALLENGE YOU WITH THIS!!!"

In front of Col. Couger a mound of Darksteel grows and grows until it stretches out. the Darksteel Colossus had been awakened, and it thirsted for Colonel James Couger's blood. With a terrifying yell, it brought its fist down hard on Couger.

OOC: Couger is beyond your help Kaymiril. SE, good luck.

R -- Xsa...I really hope that kid remembers his training. Rhenmet...stay around here.

Rn -- Siyo, Jabbuk.

T -- *to R* You know she can't do anything to help, right?

R -- Yes, T'puuli...but when he defeats it, he will probably medical attention. Mith trained Rhenna for two years...she is capable.

******************************
M - *to the Tower* What do you know about what's happening on this planet? Can you tell us how to get to the Tower of Fortunes?

The words were spoken in an androgenus, disembodied voice.

"I know many things, but I know no not how to get to the All knowing Tower of Fortunes. what you seek is none of my business, but know this, the Tower of Fortunes lies underground, Only the other Tower, the last of the Four Great towers, knows where to find it, the Tower of Murmurs, but to get there, you must brave the Tangle forest on foot, for it lies beyond the Redux in the heart of the forest. I only have one favor to ask of you, Destroy the Mirari, it is causing all this, if allowed to continue along its path, it shall surely destroy creation. You must destroy the Mirari, even if it means destroying warfare. The Mirari itself, lies at the heart of Mirroden, but only the Tower of fortunes can get you there."

Mith nods. "We knew from the beginning that failure is not an option...we must defeat what was causing this, no matter what the price."

She guestures to Anna in the unique Drow sign language, and Anna nods.

"We'll wait for Cougar...either his victory or his defeat. We leave no one behind."

Fuck that hurt

Cougar stood, having dived to one side, and being glanced by the fist of DarkSteel. He eyed up his opponent, and thought carefully. As he did so, the Black Flame erupted,"Power? No. The will and the means to defeat you? Definatley". With that, he drew the katana, it's obsidian blade wreathed in fire, and stood his ground, waiting for another attack. As he did, he spoke to it,"Well, I'm guessing you're a manifistation of whatever is fucking us around, and you are a coward! Admit it, you scheme and plot, but when push comes to shove you haven't got the minerals have you!"

The Darksteel colossus simply chuckled, reached down and picked up a boulder easily twice the size of Couger. Like a basball pitcher, he wound up and threw a fast ball at Couger, using of course, the giant boulder.

you haven't got the minerals have you!"

OOC: Lol...yep, a planet made of steel would be missing silicon, and sodium, and potassium...the list goes on.

"Nice try," smiled Cougar, as he phased out, letting the boulder pass through him,"But I've got better ideas." With that, he lifted his hand, flame crackling within his palm, and delivered a fast-ball all his own at the collusus

OOC: Lol...yep, a planet made of steel would be missing silicon, and sodium, and potassium...the list goes on.

OOC:If you'd ever seen the film 'Snatch' by Guy Ritchie, you'd know what I was on about

OOC:If you'd ever seen the film 'Snatch' by Guy Ritchie, you'd know what I was on about

OOC: I haven't.

OOC: I haven't.

OOC: It's a great film, first class. Just waiting Warhaven

Rhenna stands at a short distance away from the battle, watching. Gods, I hope this guy knows what he's doing...a few weeks of training...but where are these things weak? Xsa, would that we had Olath'yukin...she knows what she's doing when it comes to metals and the like.

The Colossus seemed unphased. perhaps it wasn't enough power. The colossus scrtched its head, puzzled, at the wimpy little ball of black flame, and simply stomped on Couger.

This is not going well

Moving swiftly yet again, Cougar lashed out with his blade, for the first time since he had met the mages. Now, they would see a swordmaster at work. It was not uncontrolled, but by now his soldier brain was taking over, and he began a furious assault, trying any method possible to find a weakness. He phased in and out, striking from different directions

T -- Ineffective.

P -- By far...

R -- He'd need a full energy attack...obsidian on steel? No...the blade would break before it did damage. But if he drew on the energy of Mirroden, like I taught him to, and used everything her drew in a Fireos attack, he might have a chance. He'll have to think of a solution on his own, though.

T -- Ineffective.

P -- By far...

R -- He'd need a full energy attack...obsidian on steel? No...the blade would break before it did damage. But if he drew on the energy of Mirroden, like I taught him to, and used everything her drew in a Fireos attack, he might have a chance. He'll have to think of a solution on his own, though.

OOC: Yeah, slight problem with your criticism. 1) Cougar has never been taught how to use Fieros! He only has a tiny amount of it anyway

OOC: He used it some, meaning he's familiar enough with it to launch an attack.

OOC: He used it some, meaning he's familiar enough with it to launch an attack.

OOC: No, he actually hasn't. Trust me, I think I know what my char cn do. He has trained in the Black Flame. Sure, Warfare gifted him with a small amount of Fieros, but he hasn't actually used it
EDIT: Waiting

A voice only Couger could hear, an image only couger could see, superimposed itself on the colossus. It was warfare, as a Man.

"Couger, I left you these lessons in in your mind in case I was not around and you were alone when you needed help. These are Dynamic, changing to fit the situation. Couger, this is a Darksteel Colossus. You blade won't hurt it. Magic is the only thing it fears. You were on the ball when you threw some Black fire at it. However, it was not enough, nor was it concentrated, it's like broadcasting a radio Wave. If left in that manner, you will be unable to defeat it and you will surly die. Concentrate on your Fires like never before. Concentrate on what you want it to do and how, maintain this concentration, don't let the fire spread. the Black Flame is powerful by itself, but, if you've never trusted me before, trust me now, Combine it with the power I gave you, merge it, for now, with the Fieros, direct a powerful Jet of fire at the Colossus, using your sword. You can do this, I belive in you." Warfare said.

The Image Blinked out. the colossus backed up a pace or two Jumped, and did a full body slam on couger.

M -- This has got to rankle, Renor...watching a student of yours like this.

R -- I would feel better about it if I could get in there to help him, true. But whatever happens, that colossus will not live to see the day through.

The Gray Class Master looked over at her companion. His tone was harsher than normal...if the colossus did not meet death by Cougar's hand, Renor would not hesitate to destroy the creature.

Rhenna's eyes narrowed. Briefly, an image flashed across her mind...hallways, and four doors. Three for knowledge. She watched on.

Cougar side-stepped, but was knocked to the floor by the force of the slam. OK Warfare, Let's hope this works. Whilst his oppenent staggered to its feet, he concentrated, drawing on both the Black Flame and the Fieros. He found both, and pulled them to his blade. The blade went brilliant white, with a black inner flame. Also, as the others watched, his body seemed to explode with power. The Fieros made itself known with a vengence, leaping up and surrounding him with its power. He rose off the ground, and the Flame was now a black and white mass. His hair flew wildly, and his eyes burned with barely suppressed energies,"You think you can beat me? THINK AGAIN!" he roared, and thrust the blade into the beast. It penetrated all the way to the hilt, and he pushed energy along it, the power building all the time. He leaned close, and whispered, just enough for the Colussus to hear him,"Sweet Dreams!". Then, the blade lit up, its fire burning enough to be seen by the others.
This is going to work!

A -- Impressive.

R -- An impressive display of power, true...

T -- You can give him further hints later, Renor. Let him have this.

OOC: We dunno if it has worked yet

OOC: I know, which is why T'puuli stopped Renor. Renor had a comment or two to make. COME ON WARHAVEN, HURRY UP!

The Colossus exploded in an explosion that made Krakatowa look like a puff of wind. Couger remained safe due to the flame, and sense Technically Couger was in a diffrent part of time, nothing else was harmed Either. Warfare reappeared, still only heard by Couger, still only seen by him.

"Remember, the Fieros is everlasting and can never be extinguished. Forever more you can use this ability with naught but a single thought, and the energy and flame it costs. This has taken a lot out of you, so more than likely you will pass out after this, but for now, you are safe." Warfare said.

Irregardless of whether or not Couger passed out, the explosen rephased him back in with the others.

Another goup of slivers appeared.

"Is it safe? We saw the Colossus and hid. it was frightening." A young Acid sliver said.

We heard what the tower said, we want to help you free our brethren from the Mirari's grasp." A young Hunter Sliver said.

There wer other sliver breeds, in fact, there was now at least two of each breed.

OOC: I know, which is why T'puuli stopped Renor. Renor had a comment or two to make. COME ON WARHAVEN, HURRY UP!
OOC: My thoughts exactly

OOC: Sorry, I'm in a dorm room and my roomates are distracting me.

The Colossus exploded in an explosion that made Krakatowa look like a puff of wind. Couger remained safe due to the flame, and sense Technically Couger was in a diffrent part of time, nothing else was harmed Either. Warfare reappeared, still only heard by Couger, still only seen by him.

"Remember, the Fieros is everlasting and can never be extinguished. Forever more you can use this ability with naught but a single thought, and the energy and flame it costs. This has taken a lot out of you, so more than likely you will pass out after this, but for now, you are safe." Warfare said.

Irregardless of whether or not Couger passed out, the explosen rephased him back in with the others.

Another goup of slivers appeared.

"Is it safe? We saw the Colossus and hid. it was frightening." A young Acid sliver said.

We heard what the tower said, we want to help you free our brethren from the Mirari's grasp." A young Hunter Sliver said.

There wer other sliver breeds, in fact, there was now at least two of each breed.

Cougar collapsed. As he did so, he thuoght Thank you Warfare. You have my gratitude. Then his mind went blank. As he fell, his hand grabbed the pendant round his neck, and held onto it tightly

OOC: Poor bastard

OOC: Ooooh...dorms. I'm not looking forward to those.

IC:

Rhenna and Mith both teleported to Cougar's side as he collapsed. Rhenna forced energy back into him while Mith tended to the bumps and bruises he had sustained in combat.

A -- The colossus is gone...and we would be glad for any help you could give.

OOC: I plan on living in my own house. Thank god for fathers

IC: Cougar awoke slowly, struggling to regain conciousness as he did so. His eyes were blurry, but as they refocused, he saw Rhenna above him,"I assume it worked then". He smiled, and withdrew his hand from his pendant to grasp hers. The pendent flashed in the sun. A silver tribal-esque symbol gleamed, alongside a sword on which a skull was impaled - the symbol of SHADOW

OOC: Its really up to you when you want to progress

Rn -- *Nods* Yes...it worked. You did well.

R -- *Approaching with a glass in his hand* Drink this.

M -- That...I don't know why you insist it works.

R -- Because it does.

Cougar smiled at Rhenna, and took the glass from Renor. He downed the drink in one, and waited to feel the effects. When he did, his energy returned, and his body healed,"Thank you"

Rn -- Come on...*stands, half pulling him to his feet as well* We have a long way to go, yet.

Any idea of how far? And I assume this is on foot?*stops to retrive his katana* Ah, trusty blade. You served me well once again

R -- On foot, and until we get there.

I could do with a stretch of the old legs. Should be interesting though, to say the least

Anna narrows her eyes and looks around, trying to discern the best way. An innate knowledge of position came with her bloodline...now, for the first time, it would come in very handy.

A -- This way. We move.

*The mages begin following the Princess, with Renor taking the lead position. Any changes in direction the Princess gave, she could call up.*

"The Redux"? I have no idea where or what that is, but, there is a spot in the heart of the tangle where things mysteriously disappear.

Cougar fell into line, at the rear end position. He moved at their pace, and check behind him. It was his training that made him do this, and despite his still moderate fatigue, he pushed on. He had gone almost a week without sleep, and this was similar. He would recover though. His hand went to his pistol, but he refrained. After what had just happened, he had a new respect for magick

A -- Can you lead us there?

Rn -- *Looking back at Cougar* You should take a spot more toward the center, until your energy picks back up. I can take the rear.

"Thanks. I'll go just ahead of you. What with you and your whipping skills, I reckon you could keep me moving," he laughed weakly, and moved in front of her

The Slivers made a snake cage around them, Slithering at the the same pace they were, the slivers would encounter anything they came across first.

Rn -- If that was a joke, I fail to see the humor.

Its a solider thing. Laughter and humour help relieve the tension after a fight, it always happens

R -- Rhenna, uk v'dri z'hins. Ori'gato ukta tlu.

Rn -- *laughing* Xas, Veldruk.

They hadn't gone to far into the tangle when the slivers encountered a Tangle Golem. they staid out of sight of the mages, but it was a terrible fight. Filled with all sorts of hissing, the only results, were a group of bloody slivers slithering back into place, and a severed Golem head flying over the group of mages.

Sleepwalking my ass,"cried Cougar indignatley. his translator chip was working at last,"I've been worse than this before. Also, can't I be a little tired?"

M -- Anyone injured, come here. I'll heal you before we go any further.

Rn -- You're supposed to draw on the energy of the world around you to bring your own energy levels back up. If you haven't figured that out yet, I can guide you through it while Mith takes care of the injured slivers.

May as well whilst we've got the chance

We're simply covered with his blood. That's all, well, the essence was wounded, but, it too can heal, so it healed itself.

R -- Rhenna, teach him, but make it fast. We'll move along ahead of you...you'll be able to find us.

Rn -- Siyo.

Rhenmet puts a hand on Cougar's forehead. Showing him the energy around him, she also showed him how to draw it in and make it his own.

Rn -- Got it?

He focused. "Yeah, I got it. Neat! That is going to be a great help to me. C'mon, we'd better get going. I do not like the idea of getting lost in here at all"

Rn -- This way. *she leads the way* So, that pendant...it obviously means a lot to you. Where'd you get it, if you don't mind me asking?

"Why would I mind you asking?"Despite these words, his face fell,"This pendant? One is the regimental badge of SHADOW, the other is my family symbol. The only remaining one" He fell silent once more

She nods.

"Sometimes I wish I had a little trinket of my mother's or father's...just so I'd know where I came from. I do understand how you feel...it hurts to lose those closest to you."

She reaches out and takes his hand.

The tangle was thick and volumeous. As they reached the the heart, Space naturally twisted around a single point. the entire group some how git split up and met in a circle around that which was known as the Redux, ancient machinery was slowly vanishing away, disappearing through a portal. on the other side it joined with a strange tower.

"What is that?" asked a synapse Sliver.

The Tower, was in the underworld of Mirroden. Going towards the Core...

He squeezed her hand tightly,"It's not the only thing I have" He drew the sword with his free hand, and showed her a mark, close to the hilt,"Recognise this?"

OOC: its the same symbol as his pendant, btw

They caught up with the others as he was asking. "A family sword."

Rn -- *looking at the tower* Vhid's Barra...

R -- Exactly.

Mith approaches the tower. "You are the Tower of Murmurs?"

Why does that not sound good to me

A -- We now get to the heart of the matter, Cougar. That is why it does not sound good.

Another, Disebodied voice, once again, androgenus answered.

"I am the tower of Murmurs. I was here when the first thought faded away, and I shall be long after the last thought fades away.

The past never fades, it only vaneshes to the never ending eternities between seconds."

M -- We need to get to the Tower of Fortunes...to stop the Mirari. We have heard that you could help us.

The voice made Cougar's skin crawl,"Oh, now that is truly creepy"

Rn -- Looks like someone's working on too much adrenaline and too little caffeine.

"You must wind your way through the cave of echos there you will find the tower of Fortunes. It lies in that direction."

At those words, an arrow formed in mid air, pointing towards a cave.

OOC:More after dinner. Something will happen in the Cave of echos

M -- Thank you.

Again, they start walking, in the direction indicated.

Rn -- Looks like someone's working on too much adrenaline and too little caffeine.

I could do with some caffine now that you meantion it

R -- Couldn't we all? But there isn't any, and I doubt any of us will waste our energy conjuring any, so you'll have to do without.

Rn -- Siyo, I know.

A -- Relax, Renor. Tension isn't going to do anyone any good.

Man, this is why I love soldiering *reaches into belt pouch, and remove some capsules* caffiene capsules, they work*hands them around*

Rn -- I've got an idea...*she conjures a cup of tea (very basic) and dissolves the caffiene into it* That way, it simulates the morning cup of coffee.

Anna nods. "Thank you, Cougar."

Neither Mith nor Renor take the caffeine pills...Mith doesn't believe in the benefits of caffeine, and too much caffeine has a negative effect on Renor's system, as he knows from experience (OOC: I had a caffiene pill recently...wow...those are powerful little things).

Rhenna conjures a cup of tea for Cougar as well. "you'll learn to do this yourself, someday...but for now."

Rn -- I've got an idea...*she conjures a cup of tea (very basic) and dissolves the caffiene into it* That way, it simulates the morning cup of coffee.

Anna nods. "Thank you, Cougar."

Neither Mith nor Renor take the caffeine pills...Mith doesn't believe in them, and too much caffeine has a negative effect on Renor's system, as he knows from experience.

Rhenna conjures a cup of tea for Cougar as well. "you'll learn to do this yourself, someday...but for now."

Thanks," he took the cup, and drank deeply from it. "Man, that does feel better. Told you I had some use after all" He laughed, and the sat down,"We should rest awhile. We have been moving for a very long time."

OOC: Thts me 4 tonite. Gd night to u all.

Rn -- I promise you, you aren't going to sleep after that much caffeine. You'll sit there, trying to get a nap, and then the caf'll hit in full force, and you'll be wide awake.

A -- She's right, and we haven't any time to lose. We move on.

*So they continue*

The mirari began to vibrate, the mirari's vibrations syncronized with the plnet itself. Soon, the entire planet was shakeng violently.

The mages merely levitated themselves off the ground. While it was odd watching the planet shake around them, they continued on. Renor lifted Cougar.

A -- "We have limited time...if this continues, it'll destroy the planet."

Ever faster, the mages speed to the Cave of Echos...and do not slow down at the entrance.

In the Cave of Echos, a voice thundered out:
"WHO ARE YOU AND WHY DO YOU SEEK THE TOWER OF FORTUNES?"

A -- I am Annastrianna d' Maril, Crown Princess of Kaymiril, Elite Mage. With me I bring T'puuli, Mistress of Space and all within it, Plak'la, Master of Time, Mith, Healer, Renor, worker of advanced magicks, his two students Rhenmet and Col. Cougar of Snake Eaters, and Galvenor of Balrogga. We come to right the wrong that has been unleashed...and we will not be stopped.

"why Are You Worthy To Right This Wrong, Why Should I Help You, Why Should I, The Tower Of Fortunes, Help You?

A -- Why are we worthy? Worthy or not, we're the only ones here, and the only ones likely to show up. We don't get through, that's it, show over.
Why should you help us? You provide us with the most direct route to the Mirari. It must be stopped...at whatever cost.
Would you judge us? Any of us? Judge me...We will succeed...and whether or not you help us is your concern.

T -- Spoken like a daughter of the Maril line...maybe a bit bold...but she shows no fear. She will make a good queen, someday.

R -- Is this little Anna? Can this be the same child I caught fighting with her sister over something so trivial as a silken rag, all those years ago?

M -- Again, we have an heir to the Maril line. The potential I sense from her now...she needs to receive more training in magick.

"Your words ring wuth truth. Be fooled by the cave of echos no more."

The cave of echos fell away, A giant metal Orb sitis in the center of Mirroden. Nearby, The Tower of Fortunes stands, glowing with power. On its surface glowed all the knowledge of creation.

"Go, to the Giant metal orb, inside you will find the Mirari, I warn you though, it has the power of two Gods. Inside the Orb, Direction has no meaning, space is that twisted. I wish you the best of luck, but beware, only you may go, Annastrianna d' Maril, Crown Princess of Kaymiril, Elite Mage. All others must stay behind."

The shock among the other mages could be felt by all around, but Anna did not flinch.

"So be it."

There was a flash, halfway between darkness and light, and where the Princess had stood, a raven flew down toward the orb. Just before entering it, she changed back into her drow form and stepped in.

OOC:http://www.art.com/asp/sp-asp/_/PD--10048606/Relativity.htm?ui=CDA2799BEB654B29A3E750FDAA9787AA#

The above link is what the inside looks like, click on the picture for a bigger view.

IC: "WHAT A FOOL, YOU ACTUALLY THINK YOU CAN BEAT ME? SO BE IT THEN, YOU SHALL DIE HERE AND NOW." The Mirari shouted. Its words resounded all the way out to the other mages by the tower of fortunes.

Energy crackled and filled the room. The mages outside could actually see bolts of energy entering the core. A bolt of lightning shot towards Anna

OOC: That one.

IC: Anna levitates, not allowing the confusing inside of the sphere to throw her off.

"Lighting? Fool." Anna holds out her hand, and the lightening scatters.

"Show yourself. COME ON! IF YOU THINK YOU CAN BEAT ME SO EASILY, SHOW YOURSELF, COWARD! I'm waiting..."

***************************

R -- Xsa...it should have taken me...she's not even eighty.

The Mirari materializes inside the center of the room. Energy crackles across its surface. Lightning shoots at anna from one diraction, Ice from another, while Fire comes from a third.

An energy shield whirls around Anna, blocking the elemental attacks. She holds up her hand and a sphere of glowing white energy builds up in her hands. The energy around her jumps and swirls, until you can almost hear it swirling around her. A tinge of red creeps into the white...her intent of this attack was complete and total destruction.

The spell trigger was merely one word:

"Alu."

The sphere blazed toward the Mirari. It was a spell called Eravanret'...one of the nine deadliest spells practiced by the Kaymirili...a spell that could almost rival Ultima in destructive power.

"ARGH, FINE, LETS PLAY HARDBALL."

The Mirari casted Ultima, and kept it maintained.

A -- This spell? Surely you don't think that Renor having had it for several weeks now, there'd be no counter?

Holding up her hand:

"Rhevene darshe."

The purpose of the spell was to bend Ultima and funnel it back at the caster. It required next to none of Anna's energy...but it cost the Mirari whatever energy it needed to cast the spell.

The Mirari Crackled, Anna, the Mirari, and the Mages near the tower of Eons all decended to Hell itself.
**********************************************************
FORM 2 OF 3
**********************************************************
The Mirari crackled grew steadily darker, then changed, before Anna stood Death itself, crontolled willingly by the Mirari. A great Circle of flames darted up around Anna and Death, much like a battle arena. if any mage somehow interfered with Anna's battle with death, she would surley die.

Death whiped out his Silver scyth, and lunged for Anna swinging with all of his might.

As Death lunged at her, Anna glowed brightly for one second, and when the glow dimmed, in her hand was her Jakujou, and her body was covered in mithral armor.

She raised the staff part to counter Death's scythe.

"So, is Death itself a mindless puppet? First of the Dragon King, now of the Mirari...you sicken me."

***********************************

Rn -- Hang on to your masks, people...it's gonna be a bumpy ride.

OOC:I'll be right back in 30 minutes Kay.

IC: "If I destroy you, I get my wish, Mindless death and destruction across creation." Death Rasped. Death swung for Anna's right side.

OOC: I'll be here....

IC:

But life prevails...WHICH IS WHY YOU LOSE!

*Using her weapon as a fulcrum, she smashes one part against Death's head, and propels herself away from his blade. Before she has finished moving, she whips the crescent back at Death...pure life energy blazing along the edge. It smashes into Death, and she keeps pumping in life energy...Death's counter.*

This is going to drain me...but there is plenty of energy lying around.

"And another thing" *she twists the staff viciously, causing it to dig deeper into Death* "You kill everything, you die yourself. Are you willing to do that? Or are you a suicidal idiot?!"

"It is my purpose, it is why I am. Who are you to gain say EONS of history?"

Death swung in an exact circle. He kept spionning faster and faster, stoped suddenly, and swung for Anna, using the fearsome hurricane blow.

While Death spun around, Anna whirled her Jakujou, faster, faster, until it was merely a blow. She then lashed out as Death lunged at her, raw energy crackling along the length of it. The force of her blow would counteract the force of his...and the attacks would cancel.

I am Annastrianna, great-great-great-great-great grand daughter of Kaymiril I...Mage Exemplar...and I carry her mission to protect this universe in which we live.

Death focused the very fibre of his being into his scyth, even if he missed, the aftershock of it hitting the ground, would surley hurt Anna greatly.

That's it...

Using a move very highly frowned upon in combat, Anna teleported away from where she was, and when she came out of it, she was levitating. From Death's side, before he could recover, the blade of the Jakujou swung for his head...it arched in, determined to behead him.

Death screamed. He was beheaded sure, but his head sank into his body. Everything grew blindingly bright.

**********************************************************
FINAL FORM
**********************************************************

When everything Cleared, Anna and friends were on a vast plane. Anna was seperated by an impeneratrable wall of Solid Air. Death grew extremly bright. when it cleared, lady warfare was standing their, controlled against her will, by the combined wills of the Mirari and Death.
"GET OUT, GET OUT OF MY MIND! LEAVE ME BE, YOUVE LOST, I DON'T WANT TO DO THIS TO MY FRIENDS!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"Lady Warfare screamed.
Haltingly, in jerking motions, Lady Warfare Donned her armor. The Light glinted off her armor, blindingly bright. A Gunblade was belted at her side. Lady Warfare stood and said:

"You are my friend, I do not wish to take advantage of your weakened state, therefore I heal you to full power. Fight with all your might, for I cannot hold back. Against my Will, the Mirari and Death has me in their powers. Against the Mirari I can suceed in a contest of Wills, but against Death, when joined with the Mirari, their power will is far greater than my own. Be thankful you do not have to face such a thing. Think of me as your friend no longer, for I must now kill you."

Lady Warfare snapped her Visor down, and swung at Anna, Tears streaming down her Armor.

Anna plants her weapon firmly in front of her.

"Alust d' Draeval, Rath d' Draeval,
Dro lu' Streea tangis' d' Phraktos.
Morfel, morfel, qua'laen orn.
Dro nez...ogglinnar rei...
Folt zhah ussta wlalth. Tlu duul'sso."

Energy had been gathering around, and it now lashed out at Lady Warfare.

"I am sorry...be free."

It slammed into Lady Warfare with the force of Destruction itself. The Princess had not held back anything...it was the strongest blow she could possibly deliver...and if it failed...She just trusted it wouldn't.

**************
R -- Did she just?

T -- Apparently so...

P -- But can she handle that much energy?

M -- We can but hope.

Rhenmet says nothing, but she clings to Cougar's arm.

Lady Warfare had some energy left. Still in the Grip of Death/Mirari, she gathered her energy to its fullestt, rose in the air until she was hidden by the suns light, and cast the most powerful spell known to the Gods, Supernova. The sun began to bulge at its surface, swelling ever outward, it crept closer by the second, it was unblockable, and it would kill everybody. Warfare struggled within her mind, at last, breaking free of their grip, lady Warfare saw what she did, and released the Barrier blocking Anna from the others. she forced them together in to one group, and sheilded them with her body. The Supernova hit and passed. The Battle field of the Gods was scared horribly yet again. Warfare rose to the sky, and faded away in so much energy. She was no more. Death was thrown back to the afterlife, and the Mirari was banished from all creation, never again to be seen. Everthing began to tremble, Time unmerged itself and became right once again, Mirroden unsealed itself, and space reappeared. Everything went Dark, when it relit, They were back at the time and place, the queen died. only instead of Napping,the Queen laid a beautiful jeweled egg, the color of fire.

"Your Egg! you laid it!" Lady warfare cried. Memories of what had transpired filled eeveryones memory, but did it really happen? After all, The Egg was laid and the Queen did not die, therefore the Mirari was not made, and Mirroden sealed. Perhaps, it was all a dream, but then, why was Lady Warfare in her Armor, and Anna in hers.
The Queen thumped her tail in a pleased manner, and the egg went flying.

"Somebody catch it!" The queen hissed.

Mith reaches out and gently catches the egg, cradling it briefly.

"It's beautiful."

P -- So, after the problem is resolved, the Space/Time continuum corrects itself.

T -- I have to say, that was...quite an experience.

Anna banishes her weapons and armor. "I wouldn't care to do that on my own again..." she sits down wearily. "I was scrambling for spells at a couple of points."

Rhenna releases her grip on Cougar's arm, and looks around. "But what was it? Mass hypnosis? A strange dream?"

R -- It was real. I know it was a long time ago, but think on the theories of an interruption in space/time.

Rn -- ...Ah...right. So, we're back here, and no harm done, right?

The egg Hatches in Mith's arms, and she finds herself holding a goey baby Queen Sliver, 15 feet long, 2 feet in diameter. It slips out of her arms, and wriggles her way to Mommy. Slivers from all over Riptide and Mirroden, gather. From horizon to horizon, its nothing but Slivers. The Old queen bends over, and passes on her daughters first meal, some sick goey red substance that only her daughter can eat and still live. Thus, having passed on the Genes of all slivers, the old queen quietly fades away to AEther, hugging her daughter as best she can. After wards, the new Queen lets out a single mornful cry. A group of Brood mothers surround the new Queen. All is well, and the slivers will not Go crazy. The brood mothers herd the new queen away.

"Well, that was, unusual. I apologize for my Actions Anna, can we still be friends?" Lady Warfare asks.

M -- *cleaning herself off as best she can* Well...I've delivered hundreds of babies in my time...but I have to say, that was the first Sliver.

R -- You're probably the first non-sliver to assist in the birth of a sliver, and it was a queen. Quite an honor, Mith.

A -- *Waving away Warfare's concerns* You weren't yourself. I've been under mind control once or twice...not pleasant. You weren't hurt too badly by my spell, were you?

EDIT: OOC: Well, good night all...it's midnight, and I'll catch you when I sign on tomorrow.

"I was almost killed, it was my own supernova that killed me, What was it like? The supernova I mean." Lady Warfare asked.

To Mith
"Mith, you have the Royal Jelly on you, This has effected you irrevocably, you will hence forth be able toshare the abilities of any nearby Sliver. This will only effect you, and any children you might physically bear between now, and when you die." Lady Warfare said.

To Renor:
"Your right, on both counts.

M -- Interesting...

T -- If you'll allow me...*she holds out her hand and replays what happened for Lady Warfare.*

"Well then, shall I continue the explaination of each breed and its abilities? Since Mith can share their abilities, I think it would be a good idea." Lady Warfare asked.

OOC: Also because I don't have anything to do all day. Back in an hour, breakfast.

A -- Sounds like a good idea.

*She stands up*

OOC: Great. I leave for one night, and the thread is finished!

OOC: Not the thread...just the intense high-pressure part of it. And I feel worse for Balrogga...you got your fight.

OOC: Not the thread...just the intense high-pressure part of it.

OOC: yeah, thats wat annoys me. Oh well, I'll just to have my thread at my pace. That way I can keep up

OOC: Will you read what you missed? You'll find some things in there of interest to your char.

OOC: Will you read what you missed? You'll find some things in there of interest to your char.

OOC: Interestin climax, but it is the bit where she grabs his arm that interests me, lol.

IC: Cougar stood, his head reeling,"OK, I have an extremely limited mindset right now, so would someone PLEASE explain what just happened?"

Rn -- don't worry about it. Princess Anna defeated the Mirari, and the Time/Space continuum righted itself.

Rn -- don't worry about it. Princess Anna defeated the Mirari, and the Time/Space continuum righted itself.

"OK, that sounds nice and simple... I think," he laughed at himself, despite the others strange looks

P -- To make it more simple for you...the events you remember never happened in this reality.

P -- To make it more simple for you...the events you remember never happened in this reality.

"Oooooooooooookkkkkkkkk then," said Cougar, a look of slight confusion replaced with a look of understanding on his face.*Turns to lady Warfare*"Warfare, I owe you my life. The dynamic Fieros lesson is the only true reason I am here, and for that I thank you"

OOC: I'm not going to wait for Warhaven, so feel free to carry on Kay

Mith helps Anna to her feet and infuses a little energy into her.

M -- "You're drained, Princess...and with good reason."

A -- "I'm fine."

OOC: Fine

He (Cougar) decided to get some privacy, away from the group. He needed time to think about things. He drew away from them, and sat some distance away, staring out at the ocean

OOC: They're at the beach.

IC:

Renor looks at Cougar, heading off, and shrugs. He looks at Rhenna, who looks from Cougar to her master, and then he shakes his head. Rhenna nods, and lets Cougar have his privacy.

Mith, in the meanwhile, is trying to figure out what it's going to be like, being able to share the powers of different creatures.

OOC: They're at the beach.

OOC: OK, so I'll edit it

Cougar sat silently, his thoughts roving around in his head. They all included images of people who he loved or had loved, his parents, his brother, Rhenna. As he did so, his hand closed round the hilt of his katana, and he drew it out a small way. His fingers found the symbol, and traversed the broad sweeping curves and sharp edges, the Cougar family crest. He looked again, and his eyes now glisterned with tears,Swift and Bold, Father, Swift and Bold. His family motto.
He wiped his eyes, and looked over at the group. Renor was walking off. So, he does not believe I should grieve? I grieve everyday. At least normally I have the self control to stop it becoming public. Do I lose a mages respect for displaying human emotions?

T -- *from behind him* Pain only goes so far, Cougar. There are things that eventually must be put to rest. Such is the way of life. Every creature is born, lives a little while, and dies. Eventually, those that remain must move on from the pain. If you cannot let them go...you cannot grow past what you are.

OOC: It was Cougar who was heading off, not Renor.

OOC: Alright, I'm back from breakfast.

IC: "You're welcome couger!" Lady Warfare called.
By Now, All but a few slivers had left to begin raising the Queen sliver. Each breed would be important since her mother was dead and could not raise her. Each breed had a diffrent set of lessons in their genes, the sole point of them was to Teach what her mother was unable to. A Winged sliver slithers up.
At its approach, Mith suddenly sprouts a pair of wings out of her shoulder blades. Due to the semi-Magical nature of Slivers, her clothes remain unharmed. Her wings are the color of her skin. They automatically fold in until Mith decides to fly.
This is a Winged sliver, You already know about them, due to what never happened with the Mirari that never existed, but, I wanted to see what would happen to Mith.

OOC:I post A sliver and how it affects mith, I look at my Rent a sliver thread, look up some abilities I may or may not have missed. You post a reaction to each sliver, from Miths point of View at the very least, throw in any other Characters you feel like.

Mith's head turns as wings sprout out of her back. Her initial reaction of shock quickly faded, and she stretched one of the wings out to get a look at it.

"I have to say...I've never had wings before."

T -- *from behind him* Pain only goes so far, Cougar. There are things that eventually must be put to rest. Such is the way of life. Every creature is born, lives a little while, and dies. Eventually, those that remain must move on from the pain. If you cannot let them go...you cannot grow past what you are.

OOC: It was Cougar who was heading off, not Renor.

OOC: U know what I mean

IC: *looks at T*"I know that, but it hurts still, 20 years on. I know I should let them go, but it's harder than alot of people think it is. Thank you anyway*Turns, and heads back to the group, approaching Renor*"Renor, can I talk to you?"

The Black Class master nods at Cougar. "What is it?"

It seems you don't approve of my missing my dead family. I am not blind, nor am I stupid, and I saw your reaction. I am wondering, with the respect that you deserve, if you do not respect me?

The winged sliver slithers off, Miths wings vanish.
"Like any Sliver, only Winged slivers keep their Wings permanetly. When your near a space Sliver, your wings will be darker, and you will be able to traverse space like a bird." Lady Warfare said.
A Synapse sliver Slithered up.
Mith could share its thoughts. In fact, her mind was partially connected to the Sliver hive mind. She could her the young Queen cooing. She could hear Slivers from all over Mirroden talking about various things. It was a mix of happiness and sadness. Happiness for the new Queen, Sadness for the death of the old.
"This is a synapse Sliver. It, and any Sliver near it, has telepathic and Telekinetic abilities. In fact Mith, you should be tuned into the Hive mind right about now. All Slivers retain individual identity, but can talk to any other through the Mind. Think of it as a vast, living Network." Lady Warfare said.

M -- This is...amazing...it's a bit much to try and have in my head at one time, but amazing nonetheless.

T -- Now you know what it feels like being me, Mith. I'm not tuned in to their Hive Mind...but in T'pdelmar, I can hear everyone, all the time.

R -- *to Cougar* I told my student to leave you alone, as it appeared that it was privacy you were wanting. As I said before, I am no telepath.

M -- This is...amazing...it's a bit much to try and have in my head at one time, but amazing nonetheless.

T -- Now you know what it feels like being me, Mith. I'm not tuned in to their Hive Mind...but in T'pdelmar, I can hear everyone, all the time.

R -- *to Cougar* I told my student to leave you alone, as it appeared that it was privacy you were wanting. As I said before, I am no telepath.

"Then I am not able to read situations correctly all the time. Sorry to have bothered you over such a trivial matter"

R -- It appears recent event -- or non events, as the case may be -- have been a bit much for you. When we get back, it would probably be a good idea for you to get some sleep.