The Alien Wars 6: Da Capo

Session 512

Session Start: Mon Aug 09 13:18:45 2021
Session Ident: #TAW-Session512
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<DeathStar> 1
<DeathStar> -0-
<DeathStar> Date: 19,966 4.4 Croza Era
<DeathStar> Location: Geyze
<DeathStar> *after the attack on their Temple, the Croza have pulled out, leaving the team alone once again as they approach the city they were in before months ago (see the map on the page). As they near it, it appears at a distance to be just the same, but there is noticable differences (cont)
<DeathStar> *there appears to be defenses built up along the outer walls, with spikes and traps of the sorts, as if the city is preparing for a war of sorts - but against who? And trenches have been dug out.*
<DeathStar> *patrols can be seen in towers on the outer border of the city, and no doubt they have spotted them approaching the city*
<Seraphna> **Alita muses, peering along the walls**
<Dias`> <Id> Question is, are they friend or foe at this point
<DeathStar> <Gwen> Who knows anymore with how Mal'oy was building up his influence
<Xanatos> <Simon> No matter which, wouldn't their attackers come from the skies?
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<Dias`> <Id> Unless there's a ground forces.
<DeathStar> <Celes> Exactly - and the Croza could way waste to this city
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "I wonder how much of this was Mal'oy's doing."
<Dias`> <Id> So then why all the show?
<Seraphna> Talia> What else fighting?
<Dias`> <Id> Unless they found a way to protect the city from such attacks.
<DeathStar> *Neekito holds their materials on her back, looking tired*
<Seraphna> **Talia takes some**
<DeathStar> *Celes plays with her hair, her bangs in need of a haircut having grown past her shoulders even after having cut it a while back*
<DeathStar> <Celes> Lets keep going
<Xanatos> 6* Simon nods and forms his spear before following after Celes.
<Seraphna> Alita> We have one different advantage this time. We have no reason to hide who or what we are.
<Xanatos> 6* BIX looks at each and every aspects of the defenses as he approaches. Storing their quality and location to his memory.
<DeathStar> *as they near the city gates, which are closed right now, a voice from the darkness above calls out to them* Halt. Identify yourselves.
<DeathStar> <Gwen> Moment of truth. *He murmurs*
<Seraphna> Alita> Allies of the Croza, brought here by their authority.
<DeathStar> *Celes pauses, having been about to say something different*
<DeathStar> *there's shuffling above - it looks like that might not have been a good thing to say*
<Xanatos> 6* Simon tightens his grip on his spear, squinting.
<Seraphna> Alita> **ponders** Oh I'm getting sick and tired of this.
<Dias`> <Id> Not all Croza are bad. We have allied ourselves with those that want to protect the Spirits.
<Seraphna> Alita> We're not here for politics or war. We are here to aid the spirits.
<DeathStar> *figures materialize out of the darkness on their sides, holding sword - not pointed at them, but ready just incase* So we have been informed. You claim to be part of the Croza that are not ill intended then? And for the Spirits, but who are you? <Celes> House Hapian, we were run out of here a few months ago
<DeathStar> *Gwen whispers* You realize if they are Mal'oy's people, they will attack now
<Seraphna> Alita> And if they are that simplies everything for me.
<Dias`> <Id> If they were Mal'oys they would've attacked us on sight
<Seraphna> Talia> Hope they spanked him for working with the naughty ones.
<Xanatos> <Simon> You have ground defenses. Who do you guard against?
<DeathStar> *The armored men whisper to each the words House Hapian, to see if any of them recognize it, and it seems it finally rings a bell with one of them. The leader of the men, a red haired man turns to face Simon, sheathing his sword* Ah, you really do not know? Hm. *he waves to open the gates* The other cities
<Dias`> <Id> Is there some sort of civil war going on here?
<Xanatos> <Simon> We have been off planet, exploring and learning. It seems much has changed in that time.
<Seraphna> Talia> We been off seeing Kumen and other places! Watching good Croza fight the naughty bad ones.
<DeathStar> <Guard Leader> We managed to run Mal'oy out as well as the king, but they went north and dug in up there with the Croza forces. The spirits have mostly helped us protect this city since Aska was here, bringing the other Spirits here for safety
<Dias`> <Id> That would explain the need for ground defenses and how the Croza have not just assaulted from the air.
<DeathStar> *the inside of the city seems to have aerial defenses incase the temples show up, but it is low tech as well, plus the Ancient Temple that is usually in the city*
<DeathStar> <Celes> So the city is without leadership now
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "Hmm."
<Sara> * Ellie rubs Neekito's shoulders
<Dias`> <Id> I believe we can help with that
<DeathStar> *Neekito gives Ellie a tired smile, doing a bit better with Talia offering to take some of the load, but it seems she is just running low on energy with all the battles lately*
<Xanatos> <Simon> Interesting, you have achieved much. Mal'oy was a major reason why we left in the first place. It is a shame he is continuing to be a problem for this city.
<DeathStar> *The captain of the guards just eyes Id, probably dismissing him as Croza tech*
<DeathStar> <Captain> He is probably more of a threat now than ever if I am to make a guess.
<Dias`> <Id> We aren't worried about him.
<DeathStar> *Celes ponders, wondering how his family line ever becomes a non-issue*
<DeathStar> *the Captain escorts them to their house, which since they were forced to abandon it months ago, has seen better days, but can be fixed up easily*
<DeathStar> <Captain> I will tell the Spirits you have returned to the city. *he nods to them and moves off with his guards*
<Seraphna> **Alita frowns, peering around** We'll need to clean up to prepare to figure out the last leg of our journey. Perhaps we should meet with the uncorrupted as well.
<DeathStar> *Celes eyes the manor* We're back
<Dias`> <Id> Now would be a good time to try and summon those that you can.
<DeathStar> *Neekito eyes Mal'oy's place next door - it has words all over it and looks like people have done a number on it*
<DeathStar> <Neekito> Hah
<Xanatos> 6* BIX blinks at it and quickly moves to start doing repairs.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "So, Mal'oy already has family, right?"
<DeathStar> *Neekito walks inside and sets her stuff down, eyeing all the dust. She quietly gets to work*
<DeathStar> <Gwen> Yeah, a rather large one
<DeathStar> *Gwen moves inside and throws his stuff into the room he had before*
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "I'm betting they're not all completely loyal."
<DeathStar> <Celes> You are most likely correct, Ceilidh. *she sits down at the dining table after lighting a candle since it is dark*
<Dias`> <Id> Depends on which ones care about status, but most likely some have abandoned them
<Xanatos> 6* Simon sees the effort to get things cleaned back up and begins helping.
<DeathStar> *While they are cleaning* Tell me, the city is without leadership - that means there is no clear chain of command and everyone is doing whatever they want. The Spirits, the citizens, and what Croza are here.
<Sara> * Ellie moves to help Neekito, too
<DeathStar> *Neekito smiles at Ellie*
<DeathStar> <Celes> I also imagine the nobles will probably be trying to become the next King or Queen
<Sara> <Ellie> I will never leave you to bear all your burdens alone
<Sara> <Liana> That's how it is with power, everyone wants it, to make things better for themselves and their families and friends
<DeathStar> *Neekito hugs* Thank you. Lets start in the kitchen area then
<Seraphna> **Alita frowns a bit, watching Celes in thought**
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "I wouldn't be surprised if everyone ditches Mal'oy once things go bad for them then."
<Sara> <Liana> Probably. They're all ultimately self-motivated.
<Xanatos> <Simon> You do not think that Lady Aska is in charge?
<Dias`> <Id> He'll have his core people who will remain.
<DeathStar> *Celes folds her hands together* The spirits of our time tried to stay out of politics. It might be different now
<DeathStar> <Celes> Do you think Aska is the leader?
<DeathStar> <Celes> If she is not, my fear is the nobles clawing at each other will cause more deaths
<Dias`> <Id> Someone must be, it takes leadership to get this city in this shape
<DeathStar> *Neekito makes a food list with Ellie as they work - since people have complained about real food for months*
<Seraphna> Alita> When did the Hapian Dynasty start exactly?
<Xanatos> <Simon> Hm. I had just assumed but you're right we don't know. Perhaps that should be our first stop.
<Seraphna> Talia> Spirit Friend! We must get all the fish.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "Do we need any more medicine? Because I can cook some up."
<DeathStar> *Celes just smiles mysteriously* Well, as you know, the records of this time period were almost all destroyed, but best we can gather, the first known records were some hundred years after the fall, but it was most likely before that
<DeathStar> *Gwen nods to Ceilidh*
<Dias`> <Id> I think Alita wants to suggest that you start the Hapian Dynasty now.
<Seraphna> Alita> I'm suggesting that's what she's thinking.
<DeathStar> <Celes> I cannot. The first hero makes the Hapian dynasty after the fall
<Seraphna> Alita> It occured to me we haven't met any of her ancestors here.
<DeathStar> <Celes> We haven't met any of the heroes yet.
<Dias`> <Id> We've also haven't been doing any DNA tests.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "Are you suggesting we look for them?"
<Dias`> <Id> Me? No. They'll arrive eventually.
<DeathStar> <Celes> I think we'll encounter them before the end. I believe Sophia is one of them
<DeathStar> <Celes> Just based on her close connection to Gale
<Sara> <Ellie> Likely...
<DeathStar> *Celes turns to Simon* I guess we should clean up this place as best we can and then talk to Chronos and the spirits in the morning?
<Xanatos> <Simon> Of course.
<DeathStar> *as they talk, Bix, who is outside repairing the house, would notice a spooky light in Mal'oy's house*
<DeathStar> <Celes> I might also see about buying Mal'oy's place and extending our property to his and making a mega mansion.
<Xanatos> 6* BIX blinks and tilts his head, then walks towards the spooky light.
<Sara> * Liana deadpans
<Xanatos> <Simon> ...would we require a mega mansion if we do not intend to be here for very much longer?
<DeathStar> <Celes> Never know
<Xanatos> <Simon> True...the portal may take some time.
<Dias`> <Id> I would not see why but I have no stake in this.
<Dias`> <Id> Infact, I should work on getting a hold of Autumn
<DeathStar> *Bix would see someone scurry inside Mal'oy's manor*
<Seraphna> Alita> We should definitely check on the uncorrupted.
<DeathStar> *Neekito playfully dusts Ellie*
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<Xanatos> 6* BIX follows inside but is now in stealth mode, you can tell because he's crouching slightly and walking slower.
<Sara> * Ellie is very dusty
<DeathStar> *Bix finds no sign of the person, except signs of someone having been eating food and drinks. Someone is defintitely living in the manor*
<DeathStar> -TIME JUMP-
<DeathStar> Date: Date: 19,966 4.5 Croza Era
<DeathStar> Location: Hapian Manor
<DeathStar> *The next day, the team wakes up to the smell of "bacon" and eggs cooking*
<DeathStar> *Neekito is there wearing an apron and feeding Ellie food personally as she cooks*
<Seraphna> **Talia is mewling in eager hunger**
<DeathStar> *Gwen sits at the table and Celes eyes her hair, having been fussing with it this morning*
<DeathStar> <Gwen> So, I found out where the Spirits are set up
<Jackieness> <Lana> *shuffles out from her bed like a zombie* "..bacon..." *drool*
<DeathStar> *Neekito places the food on the table for everyone*
<Xanatos> <Simon> I thought I was okay with the nutrient cubes...but the smell of real food... 6* He wipes at a tear, sitting down.
<DeathStar> <Gwen> They seem to be in the palace area so they can be accessible to everyone
<DeathStar> <Celes> I wonder what the nobles thought about that
<Xanatos> 6* Bix has spent some time bringing over blankets and food to set up in the othe rmansion for the person who is staying there, even drew a little stick figure of himself saying "Hello Neighbor". He walks into the dining area where the others are and sits down.
<Dias`> <Id> Makes sense
<DeathStar> *The person inside quietly borrows the blankets and food and leaves Bix a message of thank you*
<Jackieness> <Lana> *grabs her plate and just eats with her hands*
<DeathStar> *Gwen raises an eyebrow*
<Alicia> * Ceilidh eats greedily, glad to be eating something other than cubes for once.
<DeathStar> <Gwen> So I take it we're going to the palace after this?
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Mrrrrm?" *finally looks up from her feeding*
<DeathStar> *Neekito beams* I take it everyone is happy?
<Seraphna> Alita> **nibbles her food** You did wonderful Neekito.
<Xanatos> <Simon> It would seem so. I look forward to seeing how the spirits are doing. I suspect...stressed is perhaps an accurate word.
<Dias`> 6ID floats about, peering out the windows now and then
<Xanatos> <Simon> Yes Neekito this was great. I missed this.
<DeathStar> *Id would spot something exiting the manor, but not who*
<Xanatos> 6* Bix sits at the table and looks at his thank you note, beaming to himself a bit.
<DeathStar> *Celes adjusts her dress* Alright, when everyone is done, we shall depart for the palace
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Neekito, you now dwell amongst the ethereal spheres lying between digital fragments in my heart."
<DeathStar> *She moves to step outside*
<DeathStar> *Neekito huuuhs?, peering at Ellie*
<DeathStar> *whispering to her*
<Sara> * Ellie makes a face
<Sara> * Glancing at Lana
<Dias`> 6Id would quickly zoom in on the figure, recording them
<Jackieness> <Lana> "... ... ...uh, what?"
<DeathStar> <Gwen> I think you confused Neekito
<DeathStar> *Gwen puts his dishes in the sink and moves to leave*
<Jackieness> <Lana> "I mean that I platonically love you!"
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "She's very grateful. So am I."
<DeathStar> <Neekito> Oh. You are both very welcome
<Xanatos> 6* Simon puts his dishes away as well and moves to follow Celes.
<DeathStar> *Neekito bows her head, seeming to be more normal today*
<Xanatos> 6* BIX blinks at people leaving and pockets his thank you and jobs out after the others.
<Xanatos> (jogs)
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Ahhh!" *goes to put her plate away and then goes with the others*
<Seraphna> **Talia leaps on Gwen's shoulder, and Alita follows the rest**
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "That was the best meal I've ever had..." *bows, then hurries after*
<DeathStar> *The group soon approaches the palace where they find the captain of the guard fending off several low level nobles from entering; many of them shouting complaints about wanting to get in to voice them and see the spirits and the nobles that inside. When Celes and company arrive and are waved inside with fuss, that gets the crowd riled even more, the captain telling them they will all be seen in due time*
<DeathStar> *the palace is a rather small one, if you recall - a two story building with a building behind it for spirit relations. The spirits each have their own buildings throughout the city, but due to being scattered, it seems they felt a centralized location was better.*
<DeathStar> <Celes> Such a small building. *shakes head*
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Don't they know what appointments are?"
<Seraphna> Alita> It's cozy.
<Dias`> <Id> Fear and despair don't care for appointments.
<Seraphna> Alita> Of course I forget most here grew up as Royals... Ceilia and I had a hut in the Daemon coastal village with our parents.
<DeathStar> *the bottom floor seems to be the floor that the spirits are currently using, not the top floor oddly enough. As they step inside, they find Aska, Shade, Gale, Leviathan, Gaia, Barak, Pyro, and Chronos present in a circle talking about stuff*
<DeathStar> *all the higher class nobles must be on the top floor where the king used to be*
<Xanatos> 6* Simon tilts his head at the circles and approaches, stopping well short and bows.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Did you have an ocean view, Alita?"
<Dias`> 6Id floats to the right of Simon's shoulder as it studies the spirits
<Seraphna> Alita> Most do there, yes.
<DeathStar> *Aska glances at them* Ah, I recall you. *nods to them* What brings you today? *her voice sounds strained somewhat, but she remains polite*
<DeathStar> *Chronos smiles to Simon subtlely*
<DeathStar> *Gale waves at Ellie wildly*
<Seraphna> Talia> Cat Spirit says hi! And we come help!
<DeathStar> *Sophia steps in from a side room, adjusting her clothing - she seems to be wearing Gale's clothing and some light armor, the weapon Gale made her on her back* O-oh! You're all back!
<Dias`> <Id> We've come to give our assistance.
<Xanatos> <Simon> We have been working with the Crota, but our time with this has come to an end and while we have learned much...it was time for us to return and help Geyze and the spirits we cherish.
<Xanatos> (with them)
<DeathStar> *Asha studies Simon and nods* Some of you did make pacts with Shade and others, did you not? I suppose I would be a fool to reject help at this point, but I don't want to risk having the people we're here to protect be hurt either
<Dias`> <Id> I assure you that, those infront of you can easily handle themselves and are not worried about the risk of injury
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "I'm unsure if I can pact, but as long as I can, I would be happy to help."
<DeathStar> <Shade> They are a stubborn lot. I should know
<Jackieness> <Lana> *waves a little at Shade, the only spirit she really go along with*
<Dias`> <Id> Shade is correct.
<DeathStar> *Celes nods in agreement*
<Xanatos> <Simon> Yes, we can take care of ourselves.
<DeathStar> *Aska lets out a breath* I'll agree in duress. We are here to protect you, after all. <Gale> Heh. *she flies over and spins with Ellie*
<Xanatos> <Simon> Some of us have personal projects to work on, but please do not hesitate to gives us tasks or missions to help.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Yes... our personal projects..."
<Dias`> <Id> While these two are asleep, I am free
<Seraphna> Alita> Others of us simply with to ensure things play out correctly.
<DeathStar> *upstairs voices can be heard as things seem to be getting heated*
<Xanatos> 6* Simon pauses and glances upward.
<DeathStar> <Shade> Haa. We should toss them out of the building. <Aska> You know we cannot do that
<Jackieness> <Lana> *looks up* "...so...what's literally up?"
<Sara> * Ellie spins around
<Dias`> <Id> Technically we could. But I believe most of the nobles would not be able to handle their injuries
<DeathStar> <Aska> They are arguing over who has the most power to become the next leader. I suggested they make a council type leadership instead of one person.
<Xanatos> <Simon> Celes. You were correct. Any suggestion?
<DeathStar> <Shade> They politely ignored it. They are using the Croza power system to try to determine who should be King or Queen
<Jackieness> <Lana> "How are they interpreting the 'Croza power system'?"
<DeathStar> <Celes> The person who has the most talent in their House
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Uh-huh... of course." *looks over at Celes* "That sounds like a minefield."
<Xanatos> <Simon> I see. Perhaps you should show your power and unify them? You are experienced in leading, after all.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "I feel like 'the most powerful magician' is not a good qualification for being a leader."
<Jackieness> <Lana> *snaps her fingers and points at Ceilidh* "Precisely! Power does not equal wisdom or charisma, and I as a sorceress myself am saying that!"
<DeathStar> *Aska adjusts herself in her seat, peering at Simon* <Shade> Aska lead? Ha
<Xanatos> <Simon> If not you, perhaps Lady Celes? 6 He glances at her.
<Seraphna> Alita> I'm partial myself, I favor Shade. But they also represent a true balance, Dark and Light.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "I agree."
<DeathStar> *Aska eyes Shade with a side glance* <Celes> I'm afraid if they go by that silly system, none of them would respect me; my house is so low it would not even be in the rankings. No, unless we hope one of the nobles can win up there, it will need to be Aska or Shade. *Aska waves a hand* <Aska> Enough. Shall we continue? *she says to the spirits*
<DeathStar> *Her tone a bit like her present day counterpart*
<DeathStar> *Gale jerks and moves to seat. Sophia stands by Ellie as Aska resumes*
<Jackieness> <Lana> "And topic change."
<Xanatos> <Simon> Quite commanded for someone so uninstered in leadership. 6* He considers.
<Xanatos> (commanding)
<Xanatos> (uninterested)
<DeathStar> *Chronos looks amused at Simon*
<DeathStar> <Aska> I know some of you want to go up north and take the fight to the enemy. *she eyes Pyro and Barak* But I still do not know how we lost Frost. I will not risk having you taken from us. You will remain here and protecting this city. <Gaia> So our orders is to strengthen defenses? <Aska> Yes, work on all possible defenses until our next meeting
<DeathStar> <Shade> How are we going to counter attack?
<DeathStar> <Aska> I'll think of something
<Dias`> <Id> It's possible that that is where we can come in.
<DeathStar> *Aska eyes Id*
<DeathStar> <Aska> You want to travel up north and attack the enemy?
<Dias`> <Id> Subterfuge, sabotage, reconassiance. Those are things our group excel in.
<DeathStar> *Aska considers* I won't stop you then
<Xanatos> <Simon> We encountered a spirit who is able to switch between elements. Perhaps they were able to target Frost's weakness and once she was down they were able to corrupt spirit core.
<Xanatos> (corrupt her)
<DeathStar> *Aska frowns at the idea*
<Xanatos> <Simon> You should all be very careful going forward. I quite agree that running headlong towards the enemy to the north is risky if there are spirits like that in play.
<DeathStar> <Shade> You know, if you send a group to attack Mal'oy and the Croza directly, our "leaders" up above will want a voice on this to yay or nay it, Aska.
<DeathStar> <Aska> Would they really?
<Seraphna> Alita> The burden of leadership, maintaining the approval of those you lead.
<Dias`> <Id> Most likely, some may want a peaceful end to this all.
<DeathStar> *Aska looks blank* Fine, I will deal with the nobles
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Probably to see who cna claim credit on victory, or who gets the blame of defeat."
<DeathStar> <Celes> I agree. *she nods to Lana*
<DeathStar> <Gwen> Also to have their hand in every decision so they can say they did it
<DeathStar> <Aska> I get it. I will handle the nobles even if it means taking over. This is not what we spirits were meant to do
<Xanatos> <Simon> No, you are correct, but these are trying times.
<DeathStar> *Sophia pulls Ellie to the side to talk to her* How have you been?
<Dias`> <Id> Consider it a very temporary situation.
<DeathStar> *Celes bows to the spirits, moving to leave; Chronos signaling she will meet up with the team after the spirit meeting*
<DeathStar> *Gwen and Neekito step out* <Gwen> So do we really want to go up north?
<Xanatos> 6* Simon bows to them all and turns to leave with Celes. Bix just waves and skips out.
<Dias`> 6Id spins and follows the group out
<DeathStar> <Gwen> The cities up there are bigger than this one
<Jackieness> <Lana> *heads out with the team*
<Xanatos> <Simon> I would like to scout the area. But it is risky.
<Dias`> <Id> Luckily we have the maps you and I have gathered while exploring them.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Really? No trace of them must have been left then..."
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "How else will we find out what's going on?"
<DeathStar> <Gwen> They should be in the manor somewhere
<DeathStar> *Sophia follows the group, since she is talking to Ellie*
<Dias`> <Id> I also have a digital copy.
<Seraphna> Alita> Those cities were somewhat worrying, though I suppose if we can call on the Spirits for help....
<Seraphna> Alita> This reminds me I should try and speak to Lord Void before we go.
<DeathStar> *As they walk along the streets, they seem emptier than normal, the citizens likely keeping indoors. The atmosphere feels tense as they reach the manor*
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Are you sure he won't just tell you to ge toff his lawn?"
<Xanatos> <Simon> He was quite difficult in our time.
<DeathStar> *Gwen searches the manor once they return*
<DeathStar> *Neekito begins to gather food if they do decide to do this*
<Xanatos> 6* BIX tries to sneak some extra food out of the house.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "And honestly... summoning our spirits into enemy territory would be... ummm... dangerously stupid?"
<DeathStar> <Celes> IF we go north, it means we might encounter Mal'oy and who knows what enemy. *Sophia watches BIX do that and flusters slightly*
<Dias`> <Id> It is possible for us to have allies in this right outside this city.
<Seraphna> Talia> Must prepare Kitty Power.
<DeathStar> *Gwen returns with a map that he stuck in a drawer and Neekito finishes making lunches for everyone - even Id energy lunches*
<Xanatos> <Simon> Should we scout out the portal area instead?
<Jackieness> <Lana> "We do need to work on the time portal too before we run out of time."
<DeathStar> <Gwen> So should we tell Aska we're not going up north?
<Dias`> <Id> It'll most likely take us some time to prepare to attack the Northern City. So we could send some people to scout that out.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "We're giving up already?"
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Ummmm... we could... you know... split up again."
<Dias`> <Id> It would be foolish to split up.
<Dias`> <Id> How long would it take us to get to where we need to set that portal up?
<Xanatos> <Simon> We will need to wait for Chronos to arrive after their meeting at any rate. But yes splitting up would be bad. We have many things to do.
<DeathStar> *Celes crosses her arms* I will go with what the majority wants to do - scouting the north or going to the cave
<Seraphna> Alita> So let's try to plan out what we do efficiently.
<DeathStar> <Gwen> A few weeks, maybe ore
<Seraphna> Alita> Perhaps we can at least call on a Spirit to teleport us to the cave and back.
<Seraphna> Alita> And NOT Neekito, dear.
<Dias`> <Id> Neekito, do you feel like you could teleport us without risk or harm to yourself?
<DeathStar> *Neekito blinks slowly*
<DeathStar> <Neekito> I could try
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Id, Alita said ot Nekito."
<Seraphna> **Alita pats her** let's see if we can ask the others first, they aren't at risk.
<Dias`> <Id> It would need to either be Neekito or Chronos.
<DeathStar> *Simon would feel a hand on his shoulder*
<DeathStar> <Chronos> My my my, such spirited talks
<Xanatos> 6* Simon glances to the hand.
<Seraphna> Alita> Then Simon can ask Chronos first. Oh... hell Lady Chronos.
<DeathStar> *Sophia quiets down and steps back
<Xanatos> <Simon> Hello My Lady.
<Seraphna> Talia> Hi Time Lady!
<Seraphna> **Talia hugs food in cat form and devours**
<DeathStar> *Chronos nods to Talia leans on her time staff*
<Dias`> <Id> Unless you would want to lie to the other spirits as to why we are rummaging around in those caves.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Aska has left to go talk to the nobles
<Xanatos> <Simon> From your perspective, how have things been going?
<Ariel> * Iva accompanies Chronos, regarding the party indifferently.
<DeathStar> <Sophia> I should go check on Gale. I'll tell all of you my news another time. *she bows and heads out*
<Alicia> * Ceilidh waves to Iva
<Ariel> * Iva nods to Ceilidh
<Xanatos> <Simon> Erm, lady Sophia? You had news?
<DeathStar> *Chronos leans against the table, making sure not to jostle Iva* Not good. Aska is afraid to risk any of us Spirits in a fight, so we're basically useless while the Croza slowly takes over the planet and Kumen. We still have a grasp in the Spirit Realm
<DeathStar> <Chronos> But once they're ready all they have to do is pour into the city with their full force.
<Seraphna> Alita> Mm, Sophia may hold the key to that problem.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> I know the other Croza have launched a counter attack on the other worlds, but that doesn't help our world
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Well... we know that spirits on Geyze are unique relative to other worlds."
<Dias`> <Id> The Croza have supposedly attacked the bad Croza's base of operations. So we're hoping that will help slow them down
<DeathStar> *Chronos tilts head* Base of operations? There are no base of operations.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> The Croza each shared the universe equally. It's like moving pieces on a board that I saw humans play once. They are just trading pieces until they both run out of pieces to move.
<Dias`> <Id> I believe they claimed this planet to be important. 6The orb would shrug but it's an orb
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Yes. Apparently.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "What a terrible way to do things."
<DeathStar> <Chronos> But one could say the same thing about Iva's planet
<Xanatos> <Simon> It does line up with how we were only temporarily housed on that other planet before we had to retreat again. The fact they just left after arriving here is also concerning.
<Dias`> <Id> That's war.
<DeathStar> *Chronos twirls her staff* Anyway, as for the girl, she will approach you again - she is starting something up you might know about. Those chosen by the spirits to weild certain weapons and are going out to protect the citizens from attacks.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> They are earning a reputation already
<Dias`> <Id> The heroes.
<Dias`> <Id> While you are here, Chronos. May we ask for your assistance?
<Xanatos> <Simon> Why does she retreat from you?
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Good question, perhaps she doesn't want to bother the spirits outside Gale.
<DeathStar> *Chronos peers at Id*
<Dias`> <Id> There is a place we would like to teleport to to check something and possibly start setting something up. I would also like to know if I could borrow you to teleport to Autumn. I believe she will prove useful in dealing with the Mal'oy family.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Always using us for teleporting fodder. That will bite you all one day. *She muses* Yes, I will take you. Have you decided on if you are going to the north?
<Seraphna> Alita> It already has bitten us, ironically that's why we have to ask.
<Dias`> <Id> I believe yes. That is why we would like you to help us with these first two parts.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Maybe we could construct flying carriages..."
<DeathStar> *Chronos turns to Iva* It looks like we are going on some side journeys
<Dias`> <Id> They would be targets for any Croza pyramids
<Ariel> <Iva> "Do not believe... city in danger... during that time."
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "So, it's whether we value speed or being less of a target more."
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Well, you heard what she said about overuser of spirit teleporting."
<Dias`> <Id> Unless we found a way to get that Pyramid flying.
<Dias`> <Id> But that will take time.
<DeathStar> *Chronos uses her staff, the sound of a clock going, doing her "Teleport" move. If one watches, they'd realize she is actually not teleporting them, but using time to move the group*
<DeathStar> *they soon appear in front of the cave*
<DeathStar> <Chronos> We are here.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "...ah... did you actually move us... or did you move us to a time where we were already here?"
<Dias`> <Id> Simon, Lana. Let us do what we need to while the others scout the area
<DeathStar> *Chronos glances at Lana* Does it matter?
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "What should I do?"
<Jackieness> <Lana> "...I was just curious..."
<Xanatos> 6* Simon bows to Chronos and moves inside to check out the area.
<DeathStar> *everything looks clear, but having moved so far, from the city, they are definitely without protection now. The massive forest seems to have been partially cut since they were last here and in the sky there are no sign of the pyramids right now patrolling like last time, but who knows if any might pop up*
<DeathStar> <Gwen> I guess you can join them in the cave if you watn to learn, Ceilidh
<Dias`> 6Id floats in after him
<Jackieness> <Lana> *follows after Simon*
<DeathStar> *Chronos whispers the answer in her ear, then simply sits on a rock*
<Seraphna> **Talia sits on Chronos' lap** Have you met my new friend yet?
<DeathStar> *the cave has tons of gems in them, full of spirit energy, all the way to the bottom where the portal will be constructed*
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Please, go ahead and introduce me
<Seraphna> Talia> Kitty! Say hi!
<Alicia> * Ceilidh heads in to help out with the portal... and also study.
<DeathStar> *the cat spirit does so*
<Seraphna> Talia> We besties!
<DeathStar> <Chronos> I can see that.
<DeathStar> *soon in the sky, a temple appears*
<DeathStar> *on patrol*
<Ariel> * Iva stays with the others, quietly analyzing the cave. She isn't briefed on the purpose of this location, after all.
<Seraphna> **Talia looks up and her ears go back**
<Xanatos> 6* Simon begins taking notes and performing spells to test the actual amount of spirit energy, comparing it to what they discovered in the present.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Well, that isn't good, now is it?
<DeathStar> *Simon would find it is much higher, brimming practically. No doubt the time portal will drain the gems for 10,000 years*
<Jackieness> <Lana> *takes measuremments of the cavern*
<DeathStar> *the temple soon stops; Gwen, Celes, and Neekito watch as something is sent down to those outside of the cave*
<Alicia> * Ceilidh likewise takes measurements. "Looks like the time portal uses a lot of energy to stay open."
<DeathStar> <Gwen> Talia, prepare to run inside
<Seraphna> **Talia nods** Can teleport to Momma.
<Dias`> <Id> Understandably so. Opening a portal that crosses time would consume a lot of energy.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "But only from the side where the portal is open. If it drained both sides, we would have nmeasured that now."
<Dias`> <Id> Right.
<DeathStar> *A corrupted spirit approaches them - this one looks solid but as Chronos rises, it turns into a gas like state and begins to surround her*
<DeathStar> <Celes> Another strange spirit... so they brought spirit from from other worlds to help out. That means you know who might be here
<DeathStar> *Neekito hisses and claws through it as it begins to make Chronos choke on itself*
<Seraphna> **Talia hisses and floods mana into the gas to burn at it, just not at what's getting in Chronos**
<DeathStar> *The spirit retreats a bit and leaves Chronos, who is left coughing. Gwen uses fire to try to burn it as well until it goes solid*
<Seraphna> **Talia hops up and forms her large Familiar Sword**
<Xanatos> 6* Simon is still measuring unless I missed the inside group being notified.
<DeathStar> *Celes swings her blade as well, the spirit grabbing Celes' blade and throwing her back*
<DeathStar> *nope*
<Dias`> <Id> So I believe if we...6He projects an image of the portal from their time along the cavern opening. 1"Like this, we should be good to go.
<DeathStar> *simon's measurements would show how large the portal would need to be (Rather large - like a spirit portal)*
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Its really a metter of resources then."
<DeathStar> *Chronos holds her throat, looking a bit odd for a moment, before lifting her time staff to slow the spirit down for Talia*
<Xanatos> <Simon> We have some...but I'm not quite sure we have enough now. We'll have to re-evaluate once we return.
<Seraphna> **Talia leaps, sword blazing with mana as she strikes at it**
<Dias`> <Id> Luckily we can give an estimate on what we need then.
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Where does your research stand though?"
<DeathStar> *The spirit is slashed through and destroyed*
<DeathStar> <Chronos> ... get the others...we need to leave before they decide to just raze the area...
<DeathStar> *She coughs*
<Xanatos> <Simon> At this point it is mostly the act of constructing. I have everything mapped out in my notebook.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "How long will that take?"
<DeathStar> *Chronos leans on her staff quietly*
<Seraphna> **Talia teleports to Alita** We gotta go!
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Resource acquisition is the trick. And moving the equipment here."
<Dias`> <Id> Depends on how many people and how intelligent they are.
<Seraphna> Alita> I suggest we exit, Simon. Talia was outside a moment ago.
<Xanatos> 6* Simon listens to them then blinks at Talita and nods to Alita, gathering up his things and moving for the exit.
<Dias`> 6Id floats out with the group
<Seraphna> **Alita heads out with Talia**
<Jackieness> <Lana> "...sssssigh..let me guess, they picked up Chronos on their radar."
<DeathStar> *The temple focuses on the area - perhaps about to fire*
<Ariel> * Iva helps Simon with the logistics, in interest of vacating the area quickly
<DeathStar> *Celes and Gwen help Chronos to her feet, who pats her chest and seems to be doing better by the time they get out*
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Did you have fun learning about portals, Iva? *she jokes, then breaks into a cough, slamming her staff down* Lets go before they shoot and melt the entrance into nothing
<Jackieness> <Lana> "Right, home!"
<DeathStar> *they time warp and appear in a grotto where Shade glances up*
<DeathStar> <Shade> Hm? Chronos?
<Xanatos> 6* Simon shifts to Chronos as they appear, looking concerned.
<Xanatos> <Simon> What happened?
<Seraphna> Alita> We're at the grotto?
<Ariel> <Iva> "Expedition was... most informative. Also... the Crota response."
<DeathStar> *The grotto doesn't look much like it does in the present day, especially as it lacks monsters*
<DeathStar> <Chronos> The Croza sent a corrupted spirit after me. It could change into a gaseous state.
<Dias`> 6Id runs the description through it's database to see if they've encountered it
<DeathStar> *it was a new one*
<Seraphna> Talia> I beated it!
<DeathStar> *Shade moves over to Chronos, having her sit down on a stump.* <Shade> Why are you all here?
<Seraphna> Alita> Indeed... it has been a while so I've forgotten how Magi Mana can be disruptive to Spirits.
<Seraphna> Talia> Fled temple! Time Lady brought us here!
<DeathStar> <Chronos> I was asked to bring you here.
<Xanatos> <Simon> We need to evaluate the area that we build the time portal on to go home. 6* Simon begins forming runes, attempting to cast a spell that would help him determine if Chronos was corrupted.
<Xanatos> (needed)
<Xanatos> <Simon> It would appear we were attacked. Who asked Chronos to bring us here, however?
<Dias`> 6Id spins around a bit to get it's bearings straight.
<DeathStar> *the runes are unhelpful, as Chronos time flow seems to be all over the place, perhaps on purpose or subconsciously. At least she isn't appearing to be corrupted, but with how time flows, it could be uncorrupted at a certain point in time - at least she is acting normal*
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<DeathStar> *they seem to be in the area Autumn was at last time. It just appears Shade has finally claimed the area finally.*
<Xanatos> <Simon> I am sorry my Lady. I was unaware the enemy would come so quickly.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Time is as time will be,.
<ChadWinters`> <Id> I see. Shade, are you in close contact with Autumn?
<DeathStar> <Shade> Autumn? The strange woman who is living with monsters?
<DeathStar> *she points in a direction*
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Yes, that would be her. 6He starts floating that way.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> It is interesting how that one works with Autumn of all people
<DeathStar> *she notes after Id has left*
<Jackieness> <Lana> "You siad that way... how far that way are we talking?"
<DeathStar> *Id would find Autumn working on mid-level monsters, clearly trying to create modern Daemons still using the blood of Daemons and other techniques, musing. It seems she has set up shop in a little forest area near Shade, the monsters growling at Id as he approaches*
<DeathStar> <Chronos> A few minutes, just avoid her monsters
<Xanatos> <Simon> It is...something. I believe Chad sent it back to ensure some things happen in the present, perhaps he wants to ensure Autumn lives so she can make that change.
<DeathStar> <Shade> Why do you all want that strange woman?
<ChadWinters`> 6Id slows down a bit, tilting slightly at the apprehension. 1"Autumn. I see you have been very busy since we've last been able to talk.
<DeathStar> <Chronos> Yes, I would not worry about that.
<DeathStar> *Autumn waves the monster off* I'm just working on my projects still. I thought you all managed to get yourselves killed
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Surprisingly not, all things considered. I placed the odds of everyones survival rather low I must confess
<Xanatos> <Simon> Lady Shade, Lady Chronos. Have you seen a structure such as this? 6* He flips through his notepad before coming to drawings on the structure on the spirit world that housed the spirit cores.
<Xanatos> 6* It's a little rough, he's no artist but hopefully he got enough key architecturaly features to make it distinguished.
<DeathStar> *Chronos looks knowingly, but peers to the side* I have no idea. <Shade> I... have never seen such a structure like that. Is it located on Geyze or Kumen?
<DeathStar> <Autumn> I see. That is not surprising
<Xanatos> <Simon> Hm, neither I suppose. I've encountered it in my travels before.
<DeathStar> <Shade> Where at?
<ChadWinters`> <Id> I come asking you for another favor, Autumn. We're going to be making an assault on the Northern city, where a Mal'oy resides and currently is working with the morally bankrupt Croza. Do you think you could be of assistance with us on that?
<DeathStar> *Autumn turns around to face Id* You are asking me to risk myself - notice of myself and what I'm doing - and for what?
<Xanatos> <Simon> Another planet, nameless. It was uninhabited but there were some structures.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "Well, if Mal'oy isn't stopped, things could get very bad around here."
<Xanatos> <Simon> This had a door that required spirit cores to placed in slots in order for them to even open. Truly fascinating.
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Survival.
<Alicia> * Ceilidh nods to Id
<DeathStar> *Shade muses* I can't imagine such a thing.
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "I didn't want to put it so bluntly."
<ChadWinters`> <Id> I'm not asking for a full on assault from you and your people. But more of a distraction from some of your kin.
<DeathStar> *Autumn's eyes narrow to slits, the blue "daemon" eyeing them* Hm. Very well, but I want blood from all of you. *she holds up her device, scanning Iva*
<DeathStar> <Autumn> And some time with Alita.
<Xanatos> <Simon> I understand, thank you for indulging me. Lady Chronos, I must ask, do you have another pact-ee?
<DeathStar> <Chronos> In this time period? No
<Xanatos> <Simon> Ah. Of course. Very good. 6* He nods slowly, looking off to the side.
<Ariel> <Iva> "Assume... only those with blood."
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "As long as you don't want too much, I'm fine with giving blood."
<DeathStar> <Autumn> Yes, only those with blood. *she finishes her scan of the spirit*
<Ariel> * Iva nods. This is acceptable.
<ChadWinters`> 6Id turns to the others that followed. 1"I believe this will make it easier for us to access the city and take care of Mal'oy now.
<DeathStar> *Celes muses on that* I hope so. But for now we should get back to our city
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Thank you again, Autumn.
<DeathStar> <Autumn> Of course. *she has Alita stay behind while Chronos rises and gets her staff ready*
<DeathStar> -Epilogue-
<DeathStar> Location: Ancient City
<DeathStar> *Neekito offers Iva a room to stay in the manor if they want. Chronos after returning does the disappearing act however, promising that Simon will one day learn about the spirit realm's changes*
<DeathStar> *the person in Mal'oy's place can be seen moving about inside once more briefly, a light shifting about*
<DeathStar> <Gwen> I'll get ready for this scouting trip. I just hope it doesn't go to hell.
<DeathStar> *Gwen studies the maps of the north*
<ChadWinters`> 6Id floats over Gwen, pin pointing various entry points and pathways. 1"The majority of these will be watched so we will need to worry about back routes.
<Xanatos> 6* BIX tries to see if he can get Ellie in private.
<DeathStar> <Gwen> Right. At least it also won't be snowy this time.
<ChadWinters`> <Id> That will help us incase we need to make a drastic escape.
<Ariel> * Iva decides to stay at the manor for the time being, able to help more with an... independent faction, than one bound to the city.
<ChadWinters`> <Id> I think between us two, we can find a pathway and alternate routes
<DeathStar> <Celes> I'll see what I can buy us supply wise from the city. But I imagine it'll be low. We might also need Neekito to take us up north if Chronos was really infected
<Xanatos> <Simon> They came so quickly, they must be able to track teleports.
<DeathStar> <Gwen> You think so?
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<ChadWinters`> <Id> Strategically, it would be a weakness.
<Ariel> <Iva> "Response time exceed predictions."
<Xanatos> <Simon> We may need to come up with a new travel method.
<DeathStar> <Gwen> Great
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Unfortunately, spirit based teleportation is the only viable method here.
<DeathStar> <Neekito> *muses* I will look into other ways if want
<ChadWinters`> <Id> It would be a valuable route to persue, Neekito
<DeathStar> *Neekito nods*
<Alicia> <Ceilidh> "There's also foot power, but it's slow."
<DeathStar> <Celes> If we have to walk, we walk
<ChadWinters`> <Id> That will take time.
<DeathStar> <Celes> Better than risking the enemy discovering us when we arrive. We could teleport part of the way and walk the rest
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Perhaps Lana and I can also work on trying to access their pyramids remotely again in an attempt to disable them.
<Ariel> <Iva> "Terrestial fauna based travel... may be alternative."
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Hmm....Perhaps not tho. I'm still....dealing with the last attempt
<Xanatos> <Simon> ...maybe they are tracking us through Id?
<ChadWinters`> <Id> That is a possibility. Lana and I have run numerous diagnostics on my systems tho.
<ChadWinters`> <Id> If that is the case, I believe Shade will be able to let us know if the Croza appear above her grove.
<DeathStar> <Celeste> Fauna based travel?
<DeathStar> *Celes
<ChadWinters`> <Id> Animal. Bipedal in this case
<DeathStar> <Celes> Of course
<DeathStar> *Celes muses* Okay,. I think we got a game plan. Simon, can you look into Id with Lana?
<Xanatos> <Simon> Yes, my lady.
<DeathStar> <Celes> Neekito and myself will find us rides
<DeathStar> -END-
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Session Close: Mon Aug 09 22:47:32 2021