RPG The Almagest Legacy

[Shy]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alexanderedward-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/henryavatar.jpg[/img][/center][size=1][indent]That evening Henry entered the Jockey’s Club to discover a lively crowd inside. He had attended several small gatherings at the popular meeting spot over the years, but never before had he seen so many people there at once. Many of the faces he recognized from the High Czenoble Downs, and as he looked across the masses he wondered what exactly the nature of this meeting was. [I]Had Hugo extended his offer to all of the other jockeys? What was he planning?[/I]

Several friendly faces greeted Henry as he walked past, patting him on the back congratulating him on his success in the Chimaera Cup. He had raced with many of these jockeys for years, but this was the first occasion that any of them bothered to show him the slightest hint of affection. Henry immediately locked eyes with Hugo Black, sitting across the room at the bar counter. The jockey was wearing his finest riding gear, along with a very familiar wolf symbol stitched onto his jacket’s shoulders. Hugo immediately extended his hands to Henry warmly, revealing a smile beneath his five o’ clock shadow.

“[b]Good evening, Mr. Grimalkin![/b]” Hugo said with a boyish enthusiasm, “[b]It’s a pleasant surprise to see you here…[/b]”

“[b]I have to admit that my curiosity got the best of me,[/b]” Henry replied.

“[b]Then I have your curiosity to thank,[/b]” Hugo said, “[b]I promise you that this will be worth your while.[/b]”

It was at that moment that Henry noticed Alexander speaking with several strangers across the room. Henry’s eyes widened in amazement, “[b]What are all of these people doing here?[/b]”

“[b]You’re likely to recognize many faces in the crowd, Henry,[/b]“ Hugo said as he motioned towards a barstool, “[b]Please have a seat. Everything will be explained in time…[/b]”

He picked up a glass and began to chime on it with a knife, silencing the room.

“[b]Hello everyone. I am very pleased to see so many of you here, and if nothing else that is a strong sign that there is still much unrest here, even in the comfort of High Czenoble. But given time that will change, as will the lives of all Czenovians.[/b]”

Voices from the crowd suddenly burst into cheers. It was several moments before Hugo was able to speak over them again. Several glasses raised in the air.

“[b]Death to Gaul Rosier![/b]”

“[b]Tomorrow, my friends. At noon we will storm the headquarters of the Royal Police Guard, paving the way for a coup the likes of which Czenovia has never seen before…[/b]”

“[b]Long live the Underdogs![/b]”

“[b]Long live the Underdogs,[/b]” Hugo replied cheerfully, “[b]Now enjoy the final night of the Dynasty. Our new King will sleep soundly tonight, blissfully unaware of what will follow next! Cheers![/b]”

Hugo returned to his seat with a smug grin. Henry turned to him, “[b]The Underdogs, Hugo? I thought you were loyal to The Dynasts..?[/b]”

“[b]This revolution is far more complicated than you could possibly understand,[/b]” Hugo replied, “[b]There are forces on both sides of the Mirror Palace attempting to dismantle this monarchy…[/b]”

“[b]None of this makes sense…[/b] Henry let out a heavy sigh, “[b]I can sympathize with your need for change, but not at the cost of innocent life.[/b]”

“[b]There are no innocents in this war…[/b]“ Hugo said stubbornly.

One of the fellow jockeys handed Hugo a small slip of paper, “[b]A message from the Princess, Hugo.[/b]”

“[b]Thank you, thank you…[/b]” hee read it and quickly rose to his feet, “[b]Forgive me, Henry, but I must get going. There is an urgent manner that demands my attention.[/b]”

“[b]Do whatever you'd like. I‘m not interested in joining your revolution..[/b]”

Hugo grabbed onto Henry’s wrist tightly, “[b]I don‘t believe that for a moment, Henry. You‘ve spent your entire life as a second-class citizen to your own siblings. I‘ve seen it in your eyes for a very long time. You more than anyone crave the equality that only our revolution can provide…[/b]”

“[b]You’re wrong, Black.[/b]”

“[b]Is that so? Then why are you here at all?[/b]”

Henry closed his eyes for a moment, searching for an argument, but by the time he had opened them Hugo Black had disappeared out the front door. Henry turned to the bartender and ordered a drink. It was going to be a long night.[/size][/indent]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

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Of all things, Catherine could have never imagined coming back to Rosengard to find the military there, the troop carriers sitting on the normally tranquil grounds of the estate was a jarring sight. A short inquiry as to what was going on resulted in her being escorted to where their commanding officer was, which was none other than Daedalus. A fact that had both relived and alarmed her. Relief that it was him and yet alarm over why he would have brought them to the estate in the first place. Such a drastic move was not something he would have done without good reason. The resulting news in regards to Macey?s assistant Gadget had been startling to say the least.

She waited patiently, taking in everything thing that was said, filing it away for consideration later. For now, it was to be frank, shocking and hard to take in, so much had happened that it honestly felt like one of those drama novels that she occasionally read just for a good laugh. Only it didn?t feel very funny to her at that moment. A soft chime from one of the time pieces on the wall reminded her that it was seven thirty, the time spent by Daedalus getting things explained having taken up the time she had planned for dinner.

?[B]I?m sorry to interrupt,[/B]? She smiled when Daedalus turned to look at her. ?[B]But I?m afraid I need to get going or I?ll be late for the parent teacher meetings at Chaos.[/B]? She moved over until she was no more than a few feet away, reaching out and taking his hand in hers for a moment.

?[B]Take care of yourself brother,[/B]? She said softly, squeezing his hand before letting go. ?[B]Don?t work too hard alright?[/B]? Not that he would do anything differently, it wasn?t like him. Given a task, he had always been driven to do his best and more.

He just gave her one of those tiny half smiles of his, ?[B]Me, overwork? Never![/B]? Catherine chuckled and then turned to leave, she didn?t have much time if she wanted to catch the train. And she was never late for something as important as the parent teacher meetings. Like Daedalus, she was the same, never shirking her duty as a teacher. Doing what was required and more. In that respect the two were very much alike.

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Catherine had arrived in time for the parent teacher meetings, something that had turned out to be a good thing. Not that the Head Master Lector Moebius was a problem, he just wasn?t much of an asset. Or rather to be fair, he was in the wrong place for his skills. There was no shame in realizing a job wasn?t suited to you. Take her for example, she would be out of place serving in something like the military like her brother was doing.

The same could be said of Moebius, he was more suited to gathering information. Even his annoying habit of prying only showed that he had a love for getting the information and circumstances surrounding people and events. Ironically, in her opinion, if he could only lose a bit of the arrogance and ego he seemed to hold so dear; someone like that could be a rather effective history teacher. Potentially instilling the desire to learn about one?s past into students. In her opinion, he would be far better suited as a teacher than as a Head Master. Though she doubted he would ever see that.

The evening was going well, something that had Catherine pleased since she had worried a little that people would skip the meetings in an attempt to learn more about who had been named as the new ruler of Czenoble. But since the announcement was not open to the public until the official coronation tomorrow, there had been no reason for any of the parents to not come. Now, as things came to a close, Catherine was wondering what was going to happen. Leonhart was alive and she couldn?t help but wonder if she would ever see him again. She sighed as she started to put things away in her office on the second floor of Choas, the halls empty other than a few others who were already on their way out.

Catherine just focused on finishing up since she would be the last one it seemed. The others had already said their good nights before heading out, other than the security and the night guard who would be at the front door. Though depending on which exit she used, their presence didn't matter since the night guard only focused on making sure no one broke into the school when it was not in session.

She had just finished closing the curtains to her office when Catherine was surprised by the sound of the door to her office opening. She turned to see who it was only to be surprised even further by Hugo Black along with several other men who she did not know entering her office.

?[B]Can I help you?[/B]? Catherine was puzzled. She had never met Hugo Black, though she knew of him from following the Chimera Cup as well as having seen him from a distance on occasion. More importantly though, to the best of her knowledge he was unmarried and had no children. [I]Why is he here?[/I]

?[B]Actually dear, it is you who can help me.[/B]? He looked rather amused, though at what Catherine did not know.

?[B]Are you here on behalf of one of the children?[/B]? Catherine was beginning to feel a bit of disquiet over the odd situation as the others casually approached her.

?[B]On the contrary, I am here for you.[/B]? He smiled at her obvious confusion. ?[B]You see... The Starks are very interested in meeting you.[/B]?

Catherine took an involuntary step backwards, her heart catching in her throat at the mention of the Starks name. She barely had time to realize something was terribly wrong when the others who were with him pulled out pistols, pointing them in her direction. With a tiny little gasp of fear she froze, her mind racing wildly as Hugo Black approached, closing the gap between them.

?[B]I have no interest in meeting the Starks,[/B]? She finally managed when he was no more than a foot away, looking down at her. Her heart was pounding as she realized that with the others with him? she was trapped. Catherine flinched when the others with him moved to take her arms. She could feel a scream starting to build and faltered when Hugo Black took her chin in his right hand, forcing her to look up at him.

"[B]Now don't be like that.[/B]" He admonished her as the others secured her hands behind her. "[B]There's no reason to make this more unpleasant than it has to be.[/B]" He let go and turned to leave her office, the others pulling her along.

Catherine's thought that someone would realize they had been there was shattered when she realized they were taking her to the entrance to the tunnels in the basement of the school. A moment later, when they were at the bottom of the stairs and facing the different directions one could take into the tunnels; her heart raced even faster when they blindfolded her before forcing her to go with them.

[Sandy]

[RIGHT][SIZE="3"][FONT="Georgia"][B]In Times of Despair, One Shall Find Hope[/B][/FONT][/SIZE][/RIGHT]

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[FONT="Georgia"]Leonhart Almagest was deadbeat and exhausted. There was neither night nor day in the underground city, but Leonhart had calculated that it must've been well over a week since he was first taken there.

And for what? He looked at the massive structure in front of him. Most of the grime and rust had been cleaned from it by now, so the metal surface was glimmering in the light of the magitechnological lanterns.

Leonhart found it highly ironic that while the Underdogs despised his factories, they were more than willing to use the products. He first had reckoned they just didn't value hard work, but it had become evident to Leonhart that this had gone beyond a mutiny among his workers. It seemed that the two Czenobles were at war with each other.

Turning his thoughts back at the contraption, Leonhart was sure it couldn't be anything else but a weapon. It had a cannon-like shaft and a turning turret, but there were no cannonballs or other ammunition around. Instead of levers and buttons there were strange gems, oozing with alchemical power. It was a certainly a weapon with great destructive force, but it seemed that no one had no idea how to use it.

That's were the carved text on the side of the structure came into play. It was written in some ancient language - most likely the one that the inhabitants of this buried city spoke - but there was only one word that made sense in it: [I]Almagest[/I].

Seeing his honored and famous last name written on the side of a machine from ancient times was perplexing to Leonhart. He knew his ancestry was old, but could it really be that old? Or perhaps it was just a cruel game of fate, a mere coincidence that had cost the life of Callisto Prometheo and several others by now.

But Leonhart was still alive. The Starks kept him that way for one purpose only: to make the weapon work. He had made some progress, but if the Underdogs thought they were going to make him use it, they were even simpler than he thought.

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[B][FONT="Georgia"]Landmark 09[/FONT][/B][/CENTER]

[James]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/audrey-avatar.jpg[/img] [/center] Audrey dreamed for the first time in days. As she closed her eyes, her head became numb to the cold concrete beneath it. At first, images of home flooded into her mind. The broad blue vista of Cobalt Bay unfolded before her as she stood at the water?s edge. The wind came from the western ocean and its warmth enveloped her body and trickled through her hair. She could see small cottages dotted along the opposite shoreline; each one was lined with funny wooden wind chimes, which click-clacked playfully in the breeze. Nearby, an elderly woman was working in her garden. She was hunched over by a rosebush, wearing thick pink gloves. She stood up and noticed Audrey and her face brightened with a smile. She waved. Audrey waved back. Today was a perfect day. The woman approached her. She seemed to have something in her hand, which was now behind her back. A gift? A plate of freshly-baked cookies? She was like a grandmother, her face filled with warmth and kindness. What she produced from behind her back did not look like cookies at all, however. It looked like a long, black cylinder. Its metallic surface gleamed in the sunlight. The old woman?s expression hardened and her face became something else entirely; it was square and dark and menacing. She hated Audrey. She raised the metal cylinder into the air and then swiftly brought it down with tremendous force. It struck Audrey?s lower jaw and as she was thrown backwards, her eyes opened. Beads of sweat cascaded down Audrey?s face. Her hair was matted to her forehead. She brushed it aside hastily and looked around. It was the familiar concrete cell, shrouded in darkness, except for a thin thread of moonlight that pierced the blackness. Pepper was asleep. Audrey could hear her snoring. She sat up and ruffled her hair and shook her head. [i]I have to wake up, I can?t stand this any more![/i] But this was a dream she would never wake from. This prison did not just hold her captive, it also penetrated her mind. Now, even in her dreams, she could not find peace or respite. For a brief moment, Audrey propped herself up against the brick wall at the far side of the cell. She was curled into a tight ball and shrouded completely in darkness. In the corner of the room, she could feel both walls against her ? it was as close as she could get to an embrace at the moment and in some strange way, it comforted her. But then, a noise broke the silence. It was the sound of metal against metal but it was very subtle. It sounded like a single smooth movement, followed by a click. It had been enough to wake Pepper, who yawned and stretched. The door at the far end of the hall opened and quiet footsteps approached. One, two, four?perhaps six people, Audrey thought. Possibly there were more, but she couldn?t tell. Whoever had entered the hall was now standing at the entrance to their cell. Several silhouettes emerged from the darkness. The nearest figure was a tall man with square shoulders. Audrey could barely make out his face, but even in the dark, it looked suitably intimidating. The cell door rattled slightly and then began sliding open. The first man entered the room and as he stepped into the moonlight, Audrey noticed a prominent patch on his shoulder. It was a white wolf on a dark star. She knew what this symbol meant. Apparently, so did Pepper, who immediately began screaming at the top of her lungs. The sound startled Audrey and she covered her ears and squeezed her eyes shut. Pepper knelt in front of the man and grabbed at his trousers. ?I?m sorry!? she pleaded, ?I?m so sorry! I couldn?t do it! They caught me! It wasn?t my fault! I got so close to the King, but it was too late! Please, give me another chance!? Her sudden desperate pleas made Audrey feel sick in the stomach again. Whoever this man and his friends were, they were obviously Underdogs supporters. Were they here to punish Pepper for failing to assassinate the King? Perhaps they wanted to make sure she didn?t talk? Audrey didn?t want to know. As Pepper screamed and sobbed, the man seemed to ignore her. Then, rather suddenly, he unsheathed a small silver dagger. With horrific speed, he reached down and grabbed Pepper by her hair. Her cries fell silent immediately. ?Another word and I swear I will cut your throat.? The man?s voice was deep and rhythmic. He did not speak loudly, only loud enough for Pepper and Audrey to hear. He spoke with a certain conviction and matter-of-factness that was sickeningly cold. He then let go of Pepper?s hair ? the way he did so was surprisingly gentle. She fell to the floor and began crying to herself quietly. He re-sheathed his dagger and faced Audrey. She swallowed hard. Perhaps he would not be so forgiving with her. The man approached and knelt down in front of Audrey. He gently took her chin and turned her head towards him. 'I'm not here to hurt you,' he whispered. Audrey was shaking, but she did not look away from the man's eyes. They were large and vivid, full of vitality. His eyelashes were long and his face had an oddly gentle air about it up close. 'I've seen you somewhere before,' replied Audrey quietly. She tried as hard as she could to keep the shaking out of her voice. 'Who are you?' A slight grin slipped across the man's face. 'Black is the name. And you are Audrey Bertrand. You were once the Assistant Commander's Personal Assistant, weren't you?' Audrey nodded slowly. [i]Hugo Black![/i] She could not understand why he was in the cell. Wasn't he supposed to be loyal to the royal family? Yet, he had an Underdogs logo emblazoned on his arm. Perhaps she had a link with Augustine; based on her short conversation with Audrey, it was clear that Augustine was not quite as above board as some of her family members. 'Why are you here?' Black's grin faded. 'You were close to the Guard. We need all the information we can get on how they work - especially about their internal security detail.' Audrey frowned. 'What makes you think I'd know that?!' 'Don't think you can play stupid,' retorted Black, 'you were working with the two most powerful men in the Guard. You may not [i]think[/i] you know anything of value, but I will be the judge of that.' It still didn't make a great deal of sense to Audrey. Why try to take her from the dungeon when they could be out there looking for Gaul Rosier? 'Why not just attack Gaul? His whereabouts are often not a secret,' said Audrey. Black laughed to himself. 'It's not quite that simple. Now that New Czenoble is under our control, RPG security has increased ten fold. Rosier is often surrounded by Guard Officers and his movements are now highly secretive. We need inside knowledge of RPG security protocol...' Audrey sighed. 'I don't know how anything I know can help you, but I don't have any choice do I?' Hugo Black shook his head. 'No. So you can come with me quietly, or we can do this the hard way.' On the one hand, Audrey was terrified at the prospect of being taken to one of the Underdogs' camps. On the other, she knew she'd likely never get out of the dungeon alive. At least the Underdogs camp may improve her chances.

[Raiha]

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[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]"This is awful Macey. How are we supposed to help him if he vanishes whenever a threat appears?"

"Can't blame him really."

"Do you think he'll come back any time soon?"

[i]Gustave turned to Macey with a frown on his face, his expression puzzled, even though she'd taken the time to explain who and what Gadget was awhile back.[/i]

"Either way, I can't move forward without him in my lab. Speaking of which, I need to take care of some things there before dinner. If you'll excuse me?"

[i]Macey Ellen tripped down the staircase to her lab, key in hand, a pile of notes from her upstairs desk under one arm. Her sister had left a few of her own notes on the desk, and most of them were written in the same short hand Macey used, only with a slightly heavier ink line. The beauty of it all was that anyone curious would have to first decipher the system they used, a plan that had become increasingly clever as government officials became more and more curious to discover exactly what Macey was creating.

Once in the cool dark, dusty room that was her secret haven, she locked the heavy wrought iron door behind her and leaned against it for a moment, collecting her thoughts. A quick sweep of the room confirmed that the RPG had already been through. Nothing was missing, but everything was slightly out of place. Odds are they'd been totally baffled by her system of note taking, just the way she'd intended. She sat down at her oversized desk and set down a heavy sheaf of parchment that had fallen to the floor. Picking up one of her lighter quills, she dipped the point down into the ink well. A fresh sheet of paper across her desk, and she began to write down her findings thus far.

And depressing they were. Macey leaned back slightly, ink splattered on her nose and fingers. Her voice echoed dully around the still room, the sound absorbing itself.[/i]

"There won't be a cure. Not without Gadget close enough for me to study. And goodness knows where he's gone."

[i]Without her subject, there was almost nothing to work on, and thus mentally assured, she sealed the file that contained all her pertinent research on the project, should the new government be interested in the work that had gone so wrong. All that remained to deal with was her own project. Part of her was disappointed she'd had so little time for it, but given the way the last project went, her interest had flagged, if only for a little while. Gustave was fascinating in his own right, and she'd be happy to leave this place. It wasn't like her work couldn't continue without this lab. And she'd have to continue it.

She needed a way to quantify what had happened to Jack the last time she'd been here. Or perhaps just an excuse to throw herself into another project and sequester herself from the madness that was going on over her head, in the rooms above.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR]

[Aaryanna]

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Victoria Ann had tried to stay awake since she wanted to talk to Auntie Catherine when she got back, but she found that she couldn't keep her eyes open. The next thing she knew it was morning and a quick check showed that Catherine had already left. But now, she was distracted by the conversation she had with Gustave the other day, about hidden cities and how they weren't on maps. It had lead to vivid dreams of her finding a map of the tunnels and hunting down the giant that Harriet had told her about, but she had woken up just before she would have gotten to see what the giant looked like.

As she made her way to the train station to head for Chaos, she wondered if there were maps of the tunnels. After all, unlike the hidden cities, everyone knew about the tunnels, so surely at one time someone had made a map of them. Determined to ask her Auntie Catherine she hurried to school, but to her surprise, Catherine was not there and the Head Master was sending everyone home. [I]What the? Why is he doing that? And where is Auntie Catherine?[/I]

She waited until nearly everyone was gone and approached the Head Master who was also getting ready to leave. "[B]Excuse me.[/B]" She asked, causing him to turn around just as he was about to open the front doors.

"[B]Why is everyone leaving? Where is Auntie Catherine?[/B]"

"[B]I'm sure that like everyone else, Lady Almagest left to get a glimpse of the coronation of our new ruler. This is an important historical event Victoria Ann, much more important than attending classes. You should get going as well so you can go with your own family to see the coronation. Just think, you'll get to see history in the making![/B]"

"[B]But what about Auntie Catherine![/B]" Victoria objected. "[B]She's not at home and she would never just leave without telling someone![/B]"

"[B]Silly child. I don't have time to worry over what your aunt would do.[/B]" He dismissed her concern and took off out the doors, heading quickly off of the grounds.

Victoria just watched him leave, fuming. [I]That jerk! All he cares about is stupid history! [/I] She was about to leave as well, to head home when a thought struck her. [I]History? Wait, is it possible? [/I] She pivoted in place and then made a dash for the stairs, heading for his office, but the door was locked. She was about to give up when it occurred to her that she could unlock it from the inside.

With a smile she ran for the entrance to the attic, heading for the maintenance trap door above his office. With a smile she opened it and dropped down into his office, the door slamming shut once she was through. With a smile she moved over to the files along one of the walls.

When the Head Master had first shown up, apparently he had a lot of stuff brought in with him and that meant, it was possible he just might have maps of the tunnels. She smiled as she started rummaging through his things, not caring that she didn't have permission to do so. After all, she doubted the stuffy fool would let her or anyone look at his precious history stuff.

It took a little while but she finally found what she was looking for, historical maps of the tunnels under Mount Grail. With a smile she snatched all of them, stuffing them into her backpack. [I]I was right! He did have maps! [/I]With a smirk she opened his door, setting it to lock once she had left so he wouldn't know that she had been there.

[I]I need someone to help me look for the Giant![/I] She hurried down the stairs, the sound of her shoes hitting the steps echoing through the now empty school. [I]I have to find Auntie Catherine too! [/I]She just knew Catherine would not up and leave without some form of note. Victoria was out the doors and on her way to the train station to head home within a few minutes.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Shy]

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[size=1][indent]Henry woke up the next morning in Alexander and Alecia’s flat with a stinging headache. He had spent much of his evening burying himself in a glass of ale, attempting to distract himself from his current dilemma. Everything that Hugo Black had said to him rang true, but there was no way he could justify the cruel steps the Underdogs have taken to achieve their goals. Worst of all, Alexander appeared to be one of them! Henry would never have suspected him of wrongdoing, but judging by his brief appearance at last night’s gathering it was obvious now that the Underdogs were everywhere.

“[b]Henry Grimalkin step out of bed right this instant![/b]”

Anna opened the shutters by Henry’s bedside, flooding the room with sunlight. It was an overcast day, but bits of sunlight shone through the cloud cover and airships overhead. Henry squirmed as he rolled out of bed.

“[b][I]Mother![/i][/b]”

His mother was in her finest formal attire, “[b]The morning is wasting away while you lay in bed. Alexander and Alecia certainly didn’t invite us into their home for you to sleep all day![/b]”

“[b]Please, just give me a few more minutes…[/b]”

“[b]Nonsense. You have a very important day ahead of you![/b]”

Henry’s face suddenly turned flush, “[b]What? What are you talking about?[/b]”

“[b]Don’t be ridiculous. Today is the King’s coronation ceremony, and while you were out socializing last night you received a personal invitation last night from none other than the Princess herself![/b]

Anna withdrew a small envelope, adorned with the Dynast’s personal seal, and handed it to Henry. His hands began to tremble as he read the invitation.

“[b]Augustine…[/b]” Henry remembered his dinner with The Dynasts only days earlier. The Princess had been incredibly kind to him, but given the revelations of the night before her actions took on a whole new light. Was she really interested in him romantically, or was it just another move to manipulate him? Either way, it would be far too dangerous for he and his mother to be anywhere near The Dynasts.

“[b]I’m sorry to do this, but we can't attend the coronation.[/b]”

“[b]You can’t be serious![/b]” she exclaimed, “[b]For a Grimalkin to witness an event like this firsthand is the chance of a lifetime…[/b]”

Henry‘s eyes widened, “[b]Time!? Oh hell, what time is it mother?[/b]”

“[b]That’s what I’ve been trying to say, Henry. It‘s only an hour before the ceremony, and our carriage will be here any minute to take us to the palace.[/b]” Anna’s demeanor suddenly changed. She turned towards Henry’s suit, neatly pressed and laid out on a nearby dresser, “[b]Please don’t be so foolish. This is such a good opportunity for your future…[/b]”

“[b]I can’t. It’s… it’s complicated.[/b]”

“[b]Oh Henry, I know Lady Bavaria has been very cruel to both of us, but you can’t let her--![/b]”

“[b]This isn’t about Bavaria, I swear![/b]” he replied, “[b]Just promise me you’ll stay inside today. I have something very important I need to do…[/b]”

“[b]You’re a very headstrong you man, do you know that?[/b]”

Henry embraced Anna tightly as traced her finger along the collar of his shirt. Her eyes began to water as she stared intently at the small pin that Catherine had given to her before the races. He stood up and hurriedly searched the room for his shoes.

“[b]If there’s the slightest bit of trouble, hurry to Eshe Rehema as fast as you can! And I don’t want you answering the door for anyone, do you understand?[/b]"

“[b]Fine, fine, Henry. But I still don‘t understand what this is about…[/b]”

"[b]I can't explain now mother, but I have to warn someone in time...[/b]"

"[b]Warn someone about what? What is it?[/b]"

"[b]It's the Underdogs,[/b]" Henry said flatly, "[b]High Czenoble is under attack, and I'm afraid I might already be too late to stop it.[/b]"[/size][/indent]

[SunfallE]

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Alecia knew something was wrong when Alexander came home after going to attend something with his superior officer Jonathan Grants. It was clear that his mind was elsewhere and it bothered her since she couldn't recall seeing him so troubled before.

It was if something had him stressing and she could only imagine as to what it was since he didn't want to talk about it, telling her that they would discuss it soon, once he had a chance to sort things out. Though she supposed that the news that communication between New Czenoble and High Czenoble was non-existent had something to do with it. She was sure he had to be worried about his family, she certainly was.

The next morning as she was getting ready for work, Alexander was in the small study off the main receiving room to their home, writing up a letter. She walked in and leaned over, wrapping her arms around him from behind as he finished sealing the letter. Smiling a bit when she saw that it was addressed to either Dwalish or Daedalus.

"[B]Did you find out more about Grandfather?[/B]" She asked, smiling when he stopped and reached up to take her hands in his, grasping them firmly before turning so they were facing one another, his expression serious.

"[B]Alecia, you have to promise me something.[/B]" She didn't know what to think of his expression, never had she seen him looking so torn or serious for that matter. "[B]No matter what you hear, no matter what happens. You have to stay at the Eshe Rehema until I come for you.[/B]" He gripped her hands even tighter.

"[B]What's the matter Alexander?[/B]"

"[B]I can't tell you just yet,[/B]" he stood up, pulling her into a fierce embrace, making her wonder just what was going on when he finally pulled away and then kissed her tenderly before letting go.

He reached over and snatched the letter, stuffing it into his pocket. "[B]Please Alecia, promise me.[/B]" He waited for her to finally nod before continuing. "[B]We need to get going or we'll be late.[/B]" He took her hand in his and the two of them went to get some breakfast before finally leaving to catch the train to work.

When they finally arrived at their stop, the day looking to be one of rain as it was overcast and slightly chilly, Alecia couldn't help but wonder what had Alexander so worried, or just what was in the letter he had marked urgent and mailed before they had gotten on the train at the stop closer to home.

Instead she did as she always did, smiled and exchanged a hug and a kiss before they went their separate ways, her into the Eshe Rehema and him on his way to the headquarters of the Royal Police Guard that was further up the same street. She watched him until she could no longer see him and then finally turned to enter the medical center to get to work. Later, once they were done, she'd see if she could find out what was bothering him so much.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Sandy]

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[FONT="Georgia"]Gadget stood in front of the appartment building where Vincent had lived. He had returned there last evening and sneaked inside shielded by his invisibility. He still had had some clothes of his size there, bought to him by Audrey just a few days ago. But Gadget knew he couldn't stay there longer than for the night. He thought it was only a matter of time before the Almagests would tell the RPG about him and Vincent, and then the appartment would be the first place they'd come to search for him.

So he stood there in a simple sand-brown suit, trying to decide where to go from there. He could try and find a job from the city as a repairman or something, start a new life that way. But there would always be the risk that one day the RPG would find him. He could also try to return to New Czenoble, but he didn't think his parents would be pleased to see him anymore. The city was rumored to be on the verge of chaos, so it was very unlikely that Gadget would even find the Starks there.

Of course, he could do as his parents had originally told him and go to Brigit Town. But he didn't have any money, and even if he did, the railways were closed. He could try to sneak into an airship, but there was a chance it would get shot down.

All this pondering made Gadget frustrated. He was about to just cross the street and start walking aimlessly, when a steamcar stopped in front of him. Behind the wheel was Eva Almagest.

[B]"Get in"[/B], Eva told him. [B]"Don't worry, I'm not letting anyone take you. I have to get you to safety. It's dangerous to stand here idly as if you're waiting to get caught."[/B]

Gadget was baffled. How had Eva known where he was? And could he really trust the woman, after the way he had been driven out of Rosengard? On the other hand, Eva had defended Gadget to her brother... Taking another leap of fate, Gadget entered the mobile.

[B]"I'm glad to see you well, Gadget. I was worried they had already caught you, and this was the only place I knew where to look for you."[/B]

[B]"Where will you take me?"[/B] Gadget asked cautiously.

[B]"Back to Rosengard, but we have to be discreet about it. Don't worry, it's almost deserted now. Bavaria and Beatriste and the little children already left this morning with most of the servants to our family's countryside villa. You'll be safe in there as long as you don't show your face publicly."[/B]

Gadget was hesitant to return to the Almagest manor, but Eva was right. The RPG had already looked there, so they wouldn't think Gadget would go back there. Gadget hoped that his parents would soon give the RPG something better to do than chase him around.

[B]"Macey has missed you, Gadget. You are her most priced scientific achievement, after all..."[/B] Eva said and smiled at Gadget. But when she saw Gadget's face darken, she corrected her words. [B]"Ah, I apologize for talking like that.We scientists sometimes see the world only as something to experiment on. Of course you are a human being like us. I just hope my father would have seen that before he approved Project Alchimaera..."[/B]

But Gadget wasn't sure if he really was anything else than an utility item anymore. He didn't seem to have any other function in the world except to be used by other people. He could've been happy with Vincent, but he would've lived Vincent's life then, not his own. Gadget felt like his life was given a purpose without asking his opinion about it.

But then he looked at Eva, and thought about her sister Macey. Maybe the Almagest twins could change his destiny. Maybe they could undo what had been done to him, and he could start living a life of his own. Just maybe.[/FONT]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

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Catherine had no idea where she was being taken, at least not the actual physical location. It wasn?t hard to guess why though, Hugo Black?s mention of the Starks made it clear that she was likely being taken to where the other missing alchemists were being held as well. She could see it with frightening clarity in her minds eye and she only hoped that what she was thinking was incorrect. She had her own theories as to why top alchemists were being taken, it didn?t take much to figure that one out, anyone with a little bit of logic on their side could.

The trip itself was a bit odd, switching from walking, to riding in something that had to be open since she could feel the rush of air as they moved along, and then back to walking again. With the blindfold on, she could only assume they were using some sort of old fashioned pump car, probably attached to a smaller car for carrying things like coal or other materials. If they had been using something that required steam or alchemy, she would have recognized the unmistakable noise that both types of transport would have made.

It had to be a pump car, the odd noises she heard fit and the speed was fast enough for her hat to be blown off and left behind. Something a pump car was capable of doing. A short argument over retrieving her hat ensured and was dismissed with a laugh that where she was going she wouldn?t need something to shield her from sunlight. She thought perhaps that it indicated she would be kept in the tunnels, though that could also mean a building of some sort, where all the windows were covered or there were none to begin with.

She said nothing during the trip, not even when it was apparent that she had been handed over to another group of people. They were more harsh and unforgiving when she stumbled from time to time on account of not being able to see properly. Getting her going again with harsh shoves that nearly made her fall altogether. Catherine just said nothing, refusing to give into the taunts and jeers being tossed her way.

Finally after what seemed like forever, the sound of their footsteps changed, the lack of an echo indicating they had entered a much larger space. She could also hear the sounds of others moving about and the odd mechanical sound or two as well. A moment later and the group halted, someone untying her hands only to pull them to the front and put something cold on each wrist, the metallic sound of it closing making her think it was shackles, a guess that when they took her somewhere else, stopped to open something before ripping the blindfold off and shoving her inside, turned out to be true.

She was in a makeshift type of cell along one of the walls of an enormous cavern, one that contained what seemed to be the ruins of an older city. There was a massive weapon that had others who were in shackles working on it, probably the other alchemists who had been kidnapped. It looked like a type of cannon, but of a design that Catherine had never seen before. Her theory as to why the alchemists were being kidnapped was confirmed. But that was not what horrified her the most, no, what did that was the other occupant in the cell; Leonhart.

?[B]Leonhart,[/B]? She said, her voice tight with suppressed emotion, uncertain as to what to do. He was different somehow, she could see it in his eyes. It was more than fatigue, it was if some part of him had died. [I]What have they done to you?[/I]

?[B]I?m sorry Catherine,[/B]? He finally said with tears in his eyes. She knew what he meant and she felt tears gathering in her own eyes as well. Catherine knew what he must be feeling - she felt the same - glad to see him and yet wishing more than anything it was someplace else.

She wanted to collapse and cry and yet some stubborn part of her refused to do so, she wasn?t even sure what she was feeling. And having a guess as to why she had been brought to this place didn?t amount to actual knowledge. The question now was why. Did they expect her to help? Or was she merely there to put more pressure on Leonhart to cooperate? Catherine didn?t want to know why, but the sound of approaching footsteps told her that she was going to find out whether she liked it or not.

It was Donner Stark, she recognized him from the wanted posters that were up in High Czenoble, he was approaching the cell the two of them were in, a long plain envelope in one hand, a rifle with some sort of lens for seeing further away in the other. As he came to a halt just outside of their cell, Catherine began to feel the stirrings of true anger, her expression hardening into something far more stern as she met his gaze with a sharp one of her own. But he was unfazed by it and seemed to be amused instead.

?[B]I already told Hugo Black that I have no interest in meeting you.[/B]? Catherine said sharply. ?[B]That has not changed. Nor do I intend to help you.[/B]?

Donner just gave her a half grin of amusement. ?[B]You?ll do exactly as you are told, just like your brother here.[/B]? He waited patiently while Catherine gave Leonhart the tiniest of glances before looking back at him, the hesitation and confusion in her gaze evident, but not for long. He would see to that.

?[B]You see, I have a little something for you,[/B]? He held the long plain envelope through the bars, waiting for her to take it. ?[B]Go on, take a look.[/B]?

Catherine opened up the envelope in order to pull out the contents, wondering what in the world Donner Stark was talking about. She didn?t have to wonder for long, there were photographs inside, curious she took a look. [I]Photographs? How could photographs? [/I]Her hands began to shake as she realized what she was looking at. There weren?t a lot of them but it didn?t matter, and the content made it clear that they were recent too. Harrison and Victoria out on the front lawn at Chaos the day the wasps had been set loose in the Head Master?s office, Victoria and Gustave as they were riding Lucy towards Rosengard the other day...

They were watching the family! Taking pictures of them, keeping tabs on what they were up to. A horrible cold feeling came over her as a quick glance showed her that there were similar envelopes over in the corner of the cell. Catherine fought the shaking, tried to fight the despair that began to weigh on her mind, turning her attention back to Donner when he spoke.

?[B]You see that tiny little bottle over there?[/B]? He pointed to a small crate that was a good fifty feet away, an empty liquor bottle sitting on it. Once he had her attention he turned, took aim using the scope on the rifle and fired, shattering the bottle.

The pictures slipped from Catherine?s fingers and fell to the floor. If not for Leonhart catching her by the shoulders, she would have collapsed to her knees. Donner Stark just smiled knowingly at her reaction.

?[B]You?ll start by translating what?s written on that device. The choice is yours, fail to cooperate and I?ll select someone from one of those pictures and either have them shot or brought here for a more private execution for your benefit.[/B]? He smiled maliciously at the pair and then turned and left.

[Horendithas]

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There was another thing Harrison was learning from being in the military as he quickly got up again the next day, throwing on a clean uniform before heading for the mess hall. And that was how quickly news traveled. It was certainly different than how things were back at home. It was amazing at how quickly things spread through out the ship. For one thing, it seemed as if new recruits and even more seasoned members loved nothing better than to spend their short time during meal breaks to talk about everything going on. From how Gual Rosier was an idiot for ordering the [I]Vigilant[/I] to use lethal force; to the news about Meredyne Artemis being arrested for supposedly helping Jack Deacon. There was nothing they didn?t gossip about, much to Harrison?s surprise.

The bets being made as to how much trouble Gaul Rosier would be in and how quickly they?d catch Jack Deacon made Harrison a little uncomfortable though. Not that he cared about Gual Rosier, but Jack? Even if he didn?t really know Jack all that well, helping him and Victoria when they had been caught up in that mess at New Czenoble didn?t seem like the actions of a terrorist to him. He put it out of mind and tried to pay attention to the rest of the conversation, though the new direction the conversation was taking? He could only shake his head a bit.

After all, the jokes that were being told? Harrison could only imagine his mother?s expression if she knew the things he had heard since he had been brought on board the[I] Sentinel[/I]. There was certainly no way in hell he was ever going to repeat anything to her, just the thought was enough to make him wince. Though the more friendly manner of some of the men there at least made it clear that the rudeness directed his way from the three who had pestered him the other day was not shared by the others. If anything, he was starting to get a lot of curious glances and even questions from the others.

Questions that he answered, but unlike the other day, other than a few laughs most of them didn't care what family he was from. And then breakfast was over and he was off with the others to head for training again with Sergeant Garett. He only hoped that he'd get use to it and soon, he was still a little sore from the training session with his father, the normal training and then the spar with Dwalish the other day.

As Harrison made his way to where training was held, he got a glimpse of the conditions outside. It was overcast, looking like it would most likely rain later on in the day. Not that the weather would stop anyone from attending the official coronation for their new ruler. He couldn't help but smile over at least one thing, being on the [I]Sentinel[/I] meant it was unlikely he'd have to attend any silly social function. With a shrug he put it out of mind as he entered the room where the rest of the recruits were gathering.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Raiha]

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[LEFT][FONT="Times New Roman"][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][i]Macey stood in front of the full length mirror she and her sister shared, her hair carefully assuming the low coil that would set off the hair ornaments slipped into the high curve of the bun. As the only Almagest attending the Royal Coronation of the new Dynast king anyway, she might as well go all out. A dark red gown, touched here and there with flickers of gold thread, sweeping down to her feet, hiding the tips of her boots. Simple jewelry, she knew better than anyone how bad it would be to try and upstage the annoyed princess that would be forced to attend by law.[/i]

"Do you think the Princess will try to feign a headache to get out of the proceedings?"

"If I were her I'd just decapitate myself and get it over with. She'll never be the Queen now."

[i]With a wry chuckle Mell put the finishing touches on her mistress's coiffure and stepped back to let her survey the effect. A slow turn, and the ensemble was pronounced complete. Picking up her purse on the way out the door, Mell followed after, in the black that artfully set off her mistress's gown. The two made their way down the abandoned hallways, a lone servant or two greeting them as they headed for the main doors. The carriage pulled up just as Macey was drifting down the stairs, the footman leaping down to hand her in. Within the hour, they had pulled up to the magnificent grounds of the Mirror Palace, and the footman was assisting Macey down the steps of the carriage. Mell trailed close behind, unwilling to leave her lady's side for a moment.

Too soon, the Lady Bavaria drifted over in her own finery to proffer a hand to Macey, all for show she was sure. Macey gripped fingers with her ever so politely, her smile rather fixed.[/i]

"Why Macey Ellen, you made it. I was afraid there was nobody left to come to the coronation."

"I'm so sorry to have shown up then. But alas, some properties must be attended to regardless of personal feeling."

"Speaking of which, I never got the chance to ask you about that traitor boy, Gadget. Wherever he is."

"I'm afraid that until you can show me the same kind of government credentials my previous employers had, you'll be forced to keep asking me for the rest of eternity. Although I know a couple of rather good forgers who may be able to assist-"

[i]With a flash of rage, Bavaria looked Macey directly in the eyes, only to find a smirk of smugness glinting in her expression, dancing in her smile. She flounced off, only to be replaced by the Princess Augustine herself, determined to greet every guest of high birth even if it killed her. Mell prodded Macey surreptitiously, who turned exactly in time to greet the very out of sorts royalty. The princess brought a dramatic hand to her forehead much to Macey's amusement.[/i]

"Ah Macey, so good to see another Almagest here today. Perhaps you'll be able to understand my horrible plight."

"All to well your Highness. I think Czenovia could've benefited immensely from a female ruler such as yourself."

"Why I had no idea your sensibilities were so modern."

"Well incase you've forgotten, I am the only noble lady thus far to initiate divorce proceedings with her former husband."

"Of course! How silly of me to have forgotten such a thing. If you'll excuse me, I see other guests that need fleecing... I mean greeting, before the ceremony begins."

[i]With that, the disgruntled would be Dynast ruler tripped off, the train of her be-ruffled gown tossed about by the breeze that was swiftly becoming an annoyance. Macey and Mell made their merry way to the chairs that had been set up under a rather sturdy looking pavilion, dozens of servants standing in attendance, some with huge smiles on their faces, others looking half asleep. Macey sat, inwardly praising her servant for suggesting a subdued gown instead of something more overblown. In this weather, such a thing would've been a total disaster. Just as she was wondering if the new Dynast ruler intended to make his subjects wait until they fossilized, he made his appearance, sweeping across the raised platform like he had built it himself. His two manservants flanked him on either side, looking about as pompous as the man himself. The podium that had been set up just for his use glittered under a fresh veneer, and he made his way to it and took up a rather arrogant stance. At least to Macey's mind.[/i]

"My loyal subjects, how good to see you all here. Today we remember a great leader, a king to be remembered, a-"

[i]Macey struggled to stay awake. The effect of his sweeping rhetoric, and empty phrases was as powerful a soporific as the best sleeping potion Alecia could mix up. [/i] [/COLOR][/FONT][/LEFT]

[Muse]

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As much as Henry was confused as to who's side he was on, something inside him was telling him that this was the right thing to do.

He didn't have much time.

He was outside like a shot, leaving his bewildered mother behind, hoping it wasn't the last time he would be able to see her face. The carriage to take them to the Coronation was indeed waiting nearby.

[b]"To the Royal Police Guard headquarters, on your life, my dear man!"[/b] Henry shouted breathlessly as he clambered inside.

[b]"But sir, the ceremony is about to-"[/b]

[b]"Just GO!"[/b] Henry pleaded, already feeling a sickening twinge in his stomach. Was this the right thing to do? It had to be. It was too late, now. The carriage had set off in the direction of the headquarters.

Henry breathed in, and then breathed out slowly, trying to calm his nerves. He would simply notify someone, and then leave. He would be gone before the fighting started. These were not his affairs to be getting caught up in.

[b]"Please, please let them not be mine..."[/b] He whispered softly, staring, wide-eyed, out the window.

----

Just a short while later, Henry tore into the headquarters, frantically searching for someone, anyone, who looked trustworthy enough. Who knew, these days, who could be trusted and who couldn't?

[b]"How can we help you... sir?"[/b] A secretary asked the panting young man, skeptically raising a finely plucked eyebrow. Many officers of varying rank were wandering around, working, talking to each other, some even recognizing Henry's face and whispering to one another.

[b]"Please... I need to speak with someone, anyone. Someone high up, please, this is important."[/b]

[b]"Sir, I'm sorry, but civilians are not-"[/b]

[b]"I am Leonhart Almagest's youngest son!"[/b] Henry roared, pounding his fists on the desk in front of him. The whole place went silent, each and every face locked on Henry.

The young woman clearly had had enough. [b]"Please remove yourself, sir, or I will have to call for security."[/b]

Henry opened his mouth to protest when a clear, loud voice rang from somewhere to his side.

[b]"You will do no such thing, Lydia."[/b] Henry spun around, suddenly face-to-face with none other than Gaul Rosier himself, dressed in his finest uniform, obviously on his way to the coronation. His long cane and age detracted nothing from his strict and foreboding appearance, causing a shiver to run down Henry's spine as he looked the man in his eyes, so cold compared to Henry's own.

[b]"Although I cannot accept that you are really Leonhart's true son, you were raised as his own, and so I will grant you a moment of my time, as Leonhart would have wanted."[/b] Gaul drawled slowly, looking the young man up and down. [b]"Do make it quick though, boy. The coronation will be starting any minute."[/b]

[b]"Thank you, sir, thank you."[/b] Henry took a deep breath, so very aware of all the eyes upon him now; it seemed like a whole crowd had gathered now that Rosier had granted him audience. [b]"The Underdogs, sir, they're going to be attacking in,"[/b] he looked up at the clock mounted on the wall, and his heart sank. [b]"...Oh, no... ten minutes, sir. At noon."[/b]

There was shuffling and loud whispers now, some laughter, and some outrage at the very idea.

[b]"Attacking where?"[/b] Rosier asked quietly, looking at Henry over the rim of his glasses.

[b]"Here, sir!"[/b] Henry shouted impatiently. Why wouldn't they understand? Why weren't they rushing to arms? [b]"At noon, Commander! The jockeys, I was there last night, many Chimaera jockeys, last night, I was there! I know! I hear-"[/b]

There was a loud, resounding crack, and Henry hit the floor before he knew what hit him. Rosier's face was red with absolute rage as he lowered his silver cane. Henry, on his back, dumbly raised a hand to his face, where a trickle of blood was making its way from beneath his thick mop of blond hair and dripping onto the cold floor beneath him.

[b]"How [i]dare[/i] you, you filthy little bastard. How dare you come into [i]my[/i] building, on [i]this[/i] day of all days, and feed me and my men these [i]lies?[/i]"[/b]

[b]"I'm... I'm not-"[/b]

[b]"SILENCE."[/b] Rosier turned to the crowd, snarling, [b]"Someone get this [i]bastard[/i] out of my sight. I will deal with him after the ceremony."[/b]

Someone instantly piped up, a familiar voice. [b]"Yes, Commander. Right away."[/b] Alexander. Strong hands hauled Henry up off the ground. Others made to move forward to help. [b]"No, no, I've got him. Get back to work."[/b]

Alexander steered Henry away quickly, down a few hallways, letting the jockey lean on him heavily as he nursed his head, mumbling just loud enough so Henry could hear. [b]"That was a bad idea, Henry. A very bad idea. Stay close to me. It's about to start."[/b][/size]

[Shy]

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[size=1][indent]That morning in Rosengard had been extremely chaotic since the moment Fauntleroy woke up. Beatriste had hurriedly dismissed all of the servants, packed up some her valuables, and headed to the Summer estate with Harriet, Charles, Bertram and Pearl. With Macey attending the coronation, and Eva feverishly searching High Czenoble for Gadget, this left Fonty all alone for the first time in the enormous estate. He had been given strict instructions by Beatriste to take Victoria Ann to the estate as soon as school let out. This left him several hours to get some much needed rest, and decide upon the future of Magitech.

Sitting on his desk was the latest issue of The Chronicle, complete with a set of scandalous stories about Meredyne Artemis’ arrest. This left the pending deal with Artemis Air Transports, and the future of Magitech, in shambles. Still, given the role that his family’s company had played in this revolution so far, it seemed imperative that something be changed. And soon.

"[b]I only hope I'm making the right decision this time...[/b]" he said to himself as he carefully read and reread the new contract he had written.

It was just around noon when Victoria Ann came bursting through the doors of Rosengard, tossing her schoolbag carelessly on the bare floor.

“[b]Oh no! Where did everything go?[/b]” Victoria Ann exclaimed. She stared around the Grand Hall for a moment, taking in the sight of the virtually empty space, , “[b]Did the Underdogs kidnap our furniture, too?[/b]”

Fauntleroy appeared from the hallway carrying a thick stack of papers, “[b]Victoria Ann? You’re not supposed to be out of CHAOS for a couple of hours.[/b]”

“[b]They cancelled school today because of the coronation![/b]” she said excitedly, “[b]So now we have all day to go looking for the Giant and Auntie Catherine.[/b]”

“[b]Catherine? No, do you mean she’s gone missing too…?[/b]”

“[b]Well, that dorky Lector Moebius thinks she's at the coronation, but I know better. I took Lector‘s maps of the tunnels so we can go find her.[/b]”

Victoria opened her bag to reveal several ancient maps rolled up within. Fonty let out a heavy sigh.

“[b]You silly girl and your terrible ideas. Your mother almost ate me alive after what happened in New Czenoble. Do you have any idea how dangerous it is down there?[/b]”

“[b]But it's totally different, I’m way more mature now. Plus, Harrison isn’t around to get us lost anymore.[/b]”

“[b]I’m afraid you’ve gotten me in enough trouble for one lifetime, thank you. But when we see Alexander I’m sure he’d be willing to listen about your latest plan.[/b]”

“[b]But Uncle Fonty--![/b]”

Fonty grabbed his niece’s hand, and forcefully dragged her into the study. There was a large stack of paperwork piled in the corner of the empty room, with a small desk in another. It was obvious that he was working on something big.

“[b]What’s all of these papers for?[/b]”

“[b]I’ve spent the morning coming up with a plan for Magitech’s future. I need to take this to the Business Justice downtown, and ratified as soon as possible.[/b]”

“[b]Ooh, is that on the way to Gustave’s? We can take Lucy with us to the tunnels![/b]”

"[b]Enough, please![/b] Fonty raised his voice sternly, “[b]Just look at your maps until we’re ready to leave. We‘re going straight to the Business Justice, and then to your Mother![/b]”

Victoria Ann nodded and sat down to look over the maps to herself; she knew better than to keep pestering a grown-up when they were angry. However, if Uncle Fonty thought that she would give up on her rescue operation so easily he was sorely mistaken...[/size][/indent]

[Rachmaninoff]

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[I][b]"That was a bad idea, Henry. A very bad idea. Stay close to me. It's about to start."[/b][/I]

In a way, Alexander could admire what Henry had just tried to do and yet at the same time he wondered if Henry realized just how precarious his position was for having done it. As a guard member, Alexander knew that their ranks held a lot of Underdog members, especially on account of his own superior officer being one. It made telling anyone in the rpg about what was going to happen too much of a risk. He also knew how unforgiving Gaul Rosier really was. There wasn't a guard member who didn't, one was either loyal to him or one simply did their best to not draw attention to themselves if their opinion differed.

But now, after what Henry had just done, he'd be lucky to get out of the building alive, unless he did something to prevent it. He had hoped that his message addressed to either Dwalish or Daedalus would arrive in time but it was clear now that it was too late. If only he hadn't hesitated, waiting until morning to send it. Putting himself in the position of needing to use a letter instead of having a wire sent. He couldn't risk a wire, the operator would have been privy to the message. But if he had sent the letter last night instead of this morning... It didn't matter now.

Alexander signed inwardly as he kept heading down the hallway towards where people were detained. Henry in tow. He had no plans to lock Henry up though, all he had to do was wait for the fighting to start and he could conveniently not make it there in time. But for now, he couldn't afford to make a move towards getting him out of the building instead. But the closer they got to the cells and the more time Henry had to recover, the more he began to start to pull away from Alexander a bit.

"[B]Stop that. You need to stay close.[/B]" Alexander continued in tones only loud enough for Henry, tightening his grip on him. The last thing he needed was for him to pull free and attempt to take off. Henry, to the best of his knowledge, had no training on how to fight at all. He wouldn't last five minutes on his own.

"[B]Stay close to you? You're one of them![/B]" Henry objected, starting to attempt to pull free when he realized where they were heading.

As his struggles increased, Alexander did the only thing he could think of, pulling him into one of the interrogation rooms and closing the door behind him, blocking Henry's attempts to brush past him, his expression becoming panicked. Before he could work himself into a state, Alexander slapped him, causing Henry to stagger back in surprise.

"[B]Stop that! I'm not going to hurt you! It's not what you think![/B]"

"[B]Not what I think? I saw you at the Jockey?s Club![/B]"

"[B]What you saw and what's really going on isn't the same thing![/B]" Alexander insisted, grabbing Henry's shoulders before he could move out of the way.

"[B]Please you have to trust me if you want to get out of here alive.[/B]" He looked straight at him, trying to get him to see that he was serious, to get past the distrust and fear he could see in Henry's eyes.

Whether or not it worked, he didn't get the chance to find out as the sounds of fighting reached their ears. Alexander let go, whirling around to face the door. Moving over in quick strides and then opening it up a crack to take a look. It had started.[I] Hell![/I] Which meant the Jockey's were out side on their Chimera's drawing the guard outside as planned, all so the Underdogs could be let into the building via the tunnels under the city. Alexander's own superior officer was the one who would open up the entrance from the inside.

Any hope that the military would arrive to stop it was moot at this point. And Rosier had been on his way to the coronation and was likely long gone. He closed the door and turned back to find Henry watching him with a guarded expression on his face. Alexander didn't have time to convince him to trust him, he probably didn't even have time to get him to the rear exit before the Underdogs from the tunnels below stormed the place.

"[B]I don't suppose you have any training on how to fight?[/B]"

"[B]A little.[/B]"

Alexander sighed and then pulled free his police baton, tossing it to Henry who caught it, his expression slightly confused. He ignored the look, pulling his sword free as he reached for the door handle.

"[B]Follow my lead, I'm going to try and get you to one of the rear exits before the other Underdogs arrive. They'll be entering through the entrance to the tunnels in the lower levels of the building.[/B]" He met his gaze, once again trying to convey how deadly serious he was about helping him get out of the building.

"[B]It's unlikely we'll make it before they arrive so I'm going to try and get you past them. Let me do the talking, just keep your mouth shut and stay close.[/B]" Alexander opened the door and made for the rear entrance, only pausing long enough to make sure Henry was actually following him.

[Aaryanna]

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Victoria, for lack of a better word, was[I] plotting[/I]. Glancing through the maps she had found while figuring out how she would get into the tunnels. It shouldn't be too hard to find the Giant and Auntie Catherine. The giant would only be able to fit in so many places after all, the larger more open areas on the map. He might be able to squeeze through the other areas, but she doubted he'd sleep where it was cramped when there were places that weren't.

The maps to the tunnels were a lot more extensive than she had originally thought though. Making it clear that a trip could take all day long.[I] I'd better get some stuff to take with me.[/I] She thought, having already decided that if Uncle Fonty wouldn't go, she'd find a way to slip away and go on her own. But even as busy as he was, it wasn't enough to stop him from noticing when she stood up.

"[B]I mean it young lady, you are [I]not[/I] going into the tunnels so don't think I'm going to let you sneak off.[/B]" He said sternly, ignoring how Victoria was pouting.

Victoria walked over and set the maps on the desk in front of Fauntleroy with a loud clatter. "[B]I'm hungry Uncle Fonty! All I want to do is go and get something to eat![/B]" It was partially true, she was just leaving out the bit about her gathering stuff from the kitchen for a trip into the tunnels, everything she would need would be in one of the pantries.

"[B]I'll come right back once I'm done, I promise. I'll even leave the maps here with you to prove it![/B]" She didn't wait for him to answer but instead stormed out of the room, stomping her feet in anger, heading for where her backpack was located, picking it up to head for the kitchen. She paused at the door looking in at Fonty.

"[B]Okay?[/B]"

"[B]Fine, just be quick about it.[/B]"

Victoria Ann didn't waste another moment, running for the kitchen, immediately heading for the pantry that had the emergency supplies should they ever need it. Without hesitation she emptied her backpack, placing all her books and stuff from school on one of the shelves. Unless her Uncle Fonty actually looked in her backpack, he'd never know that she had something else in there.

She moved to the shelf that had supplies that were for true emergencies, dried fruit and other carefully wrapped bars that were suppose to keep well. She knew just what to take since she had seen Harrison sneaking stuff to Chaos for him and Josh to use for their own adventures into the tunnels. She finished with that and added other items that could be useful, including some of the little lanterns that were powered by magi technology.

A moment later to stuff in some water bottles, made of a strange hard substance that didn't break when dropped, and she was set. There was just enough room to stuff the maps in if she so wished. Victoria quickly closed it and hefted it onto her back. It was a little heavier than her books, but not too much. And once she used some of the water, that would change.

With a simile she ran back out and fixed herself a sandwich to take to the study, two of them, one for herself and one for Fonty, just in case he changed his mind. It wouldn't do to start a trip on an empty stomach, he'd just get tired to quickly. She grabbed something for both of them to drink and hurried back.

"[B]What took you so long?[/B]" Fauntleroy said irritably, stopping when he realized she had something for him too. "[B]Ah, never mind, that was very thoughtful of you.[/B]"

Victoria smiled and then froze at the next question. "[B]Why did you get your backpack? You're not going to need it at the summer house.[/B]"

Victoria rolled her eyes. "[B]Oh seriously Uncle Fonty! Auntie Catherine would [I]never[/I] let me hear the end of it if I forgot my homework![/B]" A comment that just made him chuckle.

"[B]I'm going to get us some jackets Uncle Fonty. It looks like it's going to rain and Alecia would never let [I]you[/I] hear the end of it if you got a chill and got sick.[/B]" She set the backpack down and took off again, this time fetching their cloaks. She set them down next to her backpack and fetched the maps, stuffing them inside before carefully closing it again.

"[B]Are you almost ready?[/B]" She asked him after taking a bite of her sandwich, watching him carefully to see his response.

"[B]Yes.[/B]" He said shortly, clearly preoccupied. "[B]Finish your lunch, we'll probably leave once you're done.[/B]"

Victoria Ann just smiled, she wanted to leave a note for Alexander, so he'd know where she was going, but she didn't see a way to do it where Fauntleroy wouldn't notice. It was going to be tricky enough as it was, if he saw a note, she'd never manage to slip away.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Sandy]

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[FONT="Georgia"]Instead of driving to the front yard, Eva steered the steamcar to the small road leading to the servants' entrance at the side of the mansion.

[B]"There shouldn't be anyone home"[/B], Eva explained. [B]"Macey went to the coronation. I heard that Primas Generous is our new Dynast King. Least of three evils, I'd say."[/B]

Just a few months ago Gadget would've been in awe about the new ruler. As hated as the aristocracy was down in New Czenoble, the workers there considered the Dynasty to be nearly gods - distant, etheric, omnipotent. But after seeing the ruling family at the Chimera Cup and hearing all the dirty details about them from Vincent, most of the glory related to them was gone in his eyes. His time spent in High Czenoble had opened his eyes to see that the upper class were all humans with their own faults as well.

But Eva had been wrong. As they stepped through the kitchen door, they heard someone rummaging the pantry. They tiptoed across the kitchen, and Gadget saw that the little girl, Victoria, was packing food to her bagback. She was so focused on it that Gadget and Eva managed to sneak out of the kitchen without her noticing them.

[B]"What is the little rugrat up to now?"[/B] Eva asked when they had walked to a safe distance. [B]"It looked like she was planning to go out to a picnic."[/B]

[B]"Or run away"[/B], Gadget suggested. Eva shrugged her shoulders, and lead her up to her room. On the way there, Gadget noticed that Bavaria had been thorough in packing up the treasures of the house: the corridors were void of all the paintings, vases and statues that had filled them before.

[B]"Do you really think the Underdogs might try to attack here again?"[/B] Gadget asked when they had made it safely to Eva's living quarters.

[B]"You tell me"[/B], Eva answered, giving him a meaningful look. Then she smiled. [B]"Sorry, I don't mean to question your trustworthiness. It's just that I barely know anything about you."[/B]

She motioned towards an armchair, and went to her desk to fetch a device that looked like a sort of a pump with a gauge meter.

[B]"Sit down, please. I'll measure your blood pressure for starters. Meanwhile, you can correct my lack of knowledge about you, if you will."[/B]

Gadget felt comfortable with Eva Almagest. Although she shared some physical features with her twin sister, the two of them were quite different. It was obvious that both of them cared for Gadget for some strange reason, but somehow Eva was much more approachable than Macey. That's why Gadget told her everything, starting from his first memories in Mrs. Charcoal's orphanage, when the young couple only recently revealed to be his parents had come to watch him play in the yard through the fence.[/FONT]

[Horendithas]

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Daedalus was eyeing the pile of reports on his desk in his quarters, debating on whether or not to attempt to tackle a few before getting into full dress uniform for the upcoming coronation that he would be required to attend. A quick glance at the chronometer showed he had the time, but the loud banging of someone at his door caught his attention and he abandoned the reports to see who was there. Taking advantage of the distraction to ignore the reports if only for a moment. He opened the door to find Dwalish standing there a wry grin on his face.

“[B]Come to rub it in have you?[/B]” Someone had to stay on the [I]Sentinel[/I] after all, that task naturally falling to Dwalish as it’s executive officer. As Air-General of the First Fleet, Daedalus was the one required to attend. Though even if he wasn’t, it was likely as an Almagest he still would have ended up being required to go. He stifled a sigh.

“[B]Not at all, I figured you could use some company.[/B]” It was clear he was quite amused at Daedalus' obvious reluctance to attend the coronation.

Daedalus raised an eyebrow at that statement and at the glint in Dwalish’s eyes, wondering what he had done. Though he could guess.

“[B]There’s no need for Harrison to be miserable and bored too.[/B]”

“[B]Who says anything about being miserable and bored?[/B]” Dwalish smirked, confirming Daedalus‘ guess as to what he was up to. “[B]If he’s going to be an officer then he needs to learn it’s important to attend social functions as his duty will require. Besides, I’ve already sent for him.[/B]”

Daedalus finally did sigh inwardly, thinking on how Dwalish was enjoying himself a little too much. “[B]Then you’d better go and get him prepared.[/B]”

Dwalish just saluted and then turned with a smile to head down the corridor.

Once he was gone Daedalus shook his head a little and closed the door to his quarters; turning to go and get ready himself.

[hr=indigo]100[/hr]
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Training had been going well that morning, even if Sergeant Garett was every bit as demanding if not more than he was the other day. So it was with great surprise that Harrison halted what he was doing when he was called out and ordered to come over to where Garett was standing, overseeing the recruits. Confused, Harrison did so, dropping his current task and heading over, wondering what the Sergeant wanted.

“[B]Get going Harrison, you’re to report to Colonel Almagest in the junior officers quarters.[/B]”

“[B]Yes sir.[/B]” He responded smartly before taking off to see just what it was that Dwalish wanted. Wondering just what it could be since he wasn’t due to report to him until after morning training and lunch.

He wasn’t sure what to expect when he got there and found Dwalish standing in front of the door to his tiny little quarters. He was holding what looked like a fancier version of the uniform he was wearing, sporting an amused grin.

“[B]There you are Harry,[/B]” He thrust the uniform into his hands as soon as he was in reach. “[B]Get changed into that immediately, you have a coronation to attend with dad.[/B]”

Harrison gave him a flat stare, “[B]What the hell are you talking about?[/B]” Since when was he required to attend something like that?

“[B]You’re an officer Harry, and as such, that means you’re going to have duties that you may not care for.[/B]” He opened the door to Harrison’s quarters. “[B] So stop whining and get changed.[/B]”

He caught Harrison by the arm and shoved him into his quarters, pulling the door shut behind him and then Dwalish smiled when he caught the sound of muffled cursing coming through the door. A couple minutes later and the door opened again to reveal Harrison wearing the dress uniform, a scowl on his face as he came out, closing the door.

Dwalish just made him turn around checking to make sure he got everything right. “[B]I suppose you’ll do. Now get going, you don’t want to keep dad waiting.[/B]”

He grinned at Harrison’s look of irritation before Harrison finally turned and left the junior officer’s quarters without another word. Dwalish just chuckled to himself as he watched Harrison leave. Once he was gone Dwalish finally left to head back to the bridge.

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Harrison was trying to keep his irritation under control, wondering how the hell he had ended up being required to go to the coronation. Wearing of all things a fancy uniform that was stiff and uncomfortable.[I] God damn...[/I] He resisted the urge to try and straighten it in an attempt to get comfortable.

For some reason as he approached the airship where his father was waiting, this time he got the feeling that there was no way he could get out of it. He was only slightly mollified by the fact that the uniform his dad was wearing was even more elaborate than what he had on. It didn't help him all that much though, since in spite of the scowl on his face, Daedalus seemed pleased to see him, placing a hand on his shoulder when he got close enough.

"[B]You look good Harrison.[/B]" He motioned for him to follow as he entered the air ship they would be using to get to the coronation.

There was no one else on the small airship Daedalus was piloting to the landing field close to the Mirror Palace. Harrison paid little attention to his father's conversation with those on the ground as he gained the clearance to land the tiny air ship.

“[B]Is it true dad?[/B]” Harrison finally asked from his seat opposite of where Daedalus sat. “[B]That officers have to attend stuff like this?[/B]” It wouldn't surprise him to find out that Dwalish had pulled a fast one on him. It certainly wouldn't be the first time if he had.

“[B]It’s never just [I]stuff[/I] Harrison.[/B]” Daedalus brought the ship in, landing it with his usual skill. “[B]There’s a lot to be learned by paying attention at social functions. Don't let the trappings of a gathering like this dull your observation skills.[/B]”

He got up and made for the exit to the ship, Harrison following along. [I]Right,[/I] Harrison thought sarcastically.[I] Does he really expects me to believe that? [/I]

“[B]Welcome Air-General Almagest, 2nd Lieutenant Almagest.[/B]” A well dressed fussy man said politely as they both exited the air ship, clearly there to greet them. “[B]This way if you please?[/B]”

Harrison said nothing, following his father’s lead as the man took them to where the coronation was to be held. There was a sturdy pavilion already set up for the many chairs for those who would be attending. It was apparent immediately to Harrison that this was going to be even more stuffy and boring than anything he had ever attended. The entire deal progressing with ponderous slowness, he turned to Daedalus who had a semi pleasant expression on his face as he dealt with those who were circulating around; talking with everyone who was in attendance.

“[B]Dad?[/B]” He asked in a tone only loud enough for Daedalus to hear. “[B]Aren’t you bored?[/B]”

“[B]Of course,[/B]” he answered, “[B]No one but a moron could avoid being bored by all this. You learn to either sit or stand and smile until your face and your backside are both stiff. Then you do it some more.[/B]”

“[B]Ugh,[/B]” Harrison fought to keep his expression neutral. “[B]How do you manage?[/B]”

“[B]Well there is a secret to it.[/B]” Daedalus answered him. “[B]However, I’m not sure you can handle it.[/B]”

“[B]Of course I can.[/B]” Harrison protested.

“[B]You have to swear to keep it a secret, otherwise I can’t tell you.[/B]” Daedalus' expression was utterly serious. "[B]It is a military secret after all, not something you can go telling to civilians.[/B]"

“[B]I swear! I won't tell.[/B]” Harrison answered immediately, eager to know what his father was talking about.

"[B]Well, if you're sure..."[/B]

"[B]Of course I'm sure! I won't tell anyone! I promise![/B]"

Daedalus just grinned faintly, making Harrison wonder if he was seeing things. “[B]Alright... If you say so... It’s called; The Game.[/B]”

“[B]The Game?[/B]” One of Harrison's eyebrows shot up.

“[B]Exactly, The Game. The rules are simple, you try to decide what animal the other guests attending the social function remind you of. The first one to laugh loses.[/B]”

Harrison couldn’t help but give his dad a quick side glance. [I]Is he kidding?[/I]

“[B]I’ll start, to give you an example,[/B]” Daedalus said with a perfectly straight face. “[B]Take the guy in the maroon suit, he’s a badger.[/B]”

“[B]A badger?[/B]” Harrison had to fight to keep a grin off of his face. “[B]Well if he’s a badger, his lady’s a watchdog. Look at how she raises her hackles whenever he smiles at that pretty serving girl.[/B]”

“[B]You catch on quick,[/B]” Daedalus replied. “[B]Okay, take Primas, he’s a Sphynix.[/B]”

Harrison choked, barley keeping the urge to laugh in. [I]He’s actually comparing the new ruler to an animal? A hairless cat no less?[/I] He couldn’t help but look around to see if anyone had noticed, but other than to realize that they were talking, no one had. Their conversation not loud enough for anyone to truly hear what they were saying.

“[B]Uh... how about that lady over there? The one wearing black and white? She’s a skunk.[/B]” Harrison glanced at his father to see if it got a reaction, but he didn’t even crack a smile.

The banter between the two continued for a bit, with each one trying to outdo the other one with absurd comparisons for those who were in attendance. Harrison was clearly struggling to not laugh while Daedalus, other than the tiniest of smiles from time to time was maintaining a straight face.

“[B]Princess Augustine, she’s a toy poodle.[/B]” Daedalus looked at Harrison a tiny half smile on his face. “[B]With her fur painted pink[/B].”

Harrison tried to hold it in, but at that point he couldn’t stop the chuckle, barely managing to contain it to sound like a cough instead. Imaging the princess as one of those horrible little yip dogs was more than he could take and true laughter threatened to spill forth. Daedalus just calmly reached over and gave Harrison several good whacks on the back, making it easier for him to hide the laugher.

“[B]You lose.[/B]” Daedalus said with a small grin.

Harrison just smiled in return, not caring that he lost. It was certainly a social event that he was never going to forget. It certainly made it hard to pay attention to what Primas was saying as he addressed those who were there. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Gavin]

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[indent][size=1]Returning his face to it's previously steely expression, Daedalus continued to merely stare on at the gathering of dignitaries attending the formal coronation of the new Dynast King. To say it was a large would be something of an understatement, in attendance as well as Daedalus were the seven other Air-Generals of the Fleets, probably the first time the entire group had been in a room together since the previous coronation. Countless other members of High Czenoble's elite were also present, the poor showing of Almagests however could be forgiven, taking recent events into account.

Harrison looking up at him again, his face still slightly red from failing to repress his laughter at losing "The Game", he wasn't quite as good as Dwalish had been, but then his eldest born son had been such a sombre soul, it had never been impossible to make him laugh under normal circumstances. Daedalus doubted that Harrison would believe him if he said that "The Game" had been taught to him by his father in law at a very similar event Gods' know how many beforehand. Leaning back down, he gave his son an owlish glance.

"[b]I probably should have mentioned before we started Harrison, but there's a penalty for losing "The Game".[/b]"

Instantly Harrison's face contorted from his carefree smile to one of mild concern.

"[b]What do you mean Dad ?[/b]"

"[b]It's nothing major. You simply have to do part of my paperwork for the next week. Obviously the stuff you can do.[/b]"

"[b]What ?!![/b]"

The gasp was barely audible, though Daedalus' expression did not change, he was fighting to contain his own laughter. He knew how much Harrison hated homework, so having to do paperwork must have seemed like a worse punishment than corporal punishment.

"[b]Now now, you're actually lucky. When Dwalish first lost to me, I had him do all my paperwork because he'd gone through the academy and actually knew how to do it all.[/b]"

If glowers could kill, Daedalus would probably have dropped dead on the spot. Clasping Harrison by the shoulder, he squeezed gently as his son merely dropped his head and chuckled at the predicament he found himself in.

"[b]So, how many times have you lost Dad ?[/b]"

To Harrison's great surprise, he saw his father visibly shudder at the question.

"[b]Twenty four times...But then, the man I lost to all those times was probably the single best player of "The Game" ever. Even now, I'd lose.[/b]"

Maybe he was exaggerating a bit at "best player ever", but the near half a year's worth of additional paperwork could be least described as a nightmare for someone like Daedalus with an abject phobia of red tape. It was probably what had caused his loathing for paperwork in the first place, and as a General, he certainly had no shortage of it, even now, he knew a fresh stack was awaiting him by the time they got back.

"[b]Wow...you must really have sucked at "The Game" when you were younger.[/b]"

If glowers could kill....

After what seemed like hours, which in reality was probably correct, Daedalus and the other Air-Generals were called away for their first formal briefing with the new Dynast King. He caught a brief nod from Litheway and returned it. Lead away from the main reception area of the Mirror Palace, they were escorted by the elite Sovereign Protectors... with enough time, he thought sadly, Helen would probably have joined their ranks.

Despite his long years in the military, he'd never been involved in a formal briefing like this before. Even his dealings with Mideus had been mostly informal due to his low rank. The room itself was an odd half-moon shape, flanked by giant marble columns, a single semi-circular table with eight chairs faced the exquisite Dynast Throne on a higher level. Daedalus watched with a mild sense of trepidation as Primas quickly ascended the steps to take the throne, his throne, Daedalus corrected himself.

"[b]Friends, thank you for attending this meeting. I look forward to your briefings as we work together to ensure the security of our glorious nation.[/b]"[/size][/indent]

[Malkav]

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[FONT=Palatino Linotype][COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]
The Cygnus touched down a few blocks from Camp Doberman. Jack had decided the crew should get restocked on food and other supplies before they made their move against the military. If all went as planned, Jack knew that he'd probably need to high tail it out of Czenovia as soon as possible and that may mean going a month or so away from society. He felt his gun at his side, clacking against his belt with each step he took. Something was not right.

Jack took note of the sky, which was gray. Every bad day he ever had seemed to happen on a day like this. He held his hand up and stopped the crew. [B]"Go back to the ship."[/B]

Expectedly, murmurs of protest began to develop among the crew. Jack repeated his statement, but like any good pirate crew they refused to listen to their leader until they felt their lives were in danger. Frustrated, Jack pulled his gun and pointed it at the men, and Kil'ani, behind him. [B]"Get back to the bloody ship! That's an order!"

[/B]They backed away slowly, not taking their eyes off of him. When they were some ways away, they started talking again, and the nervous look in their eyes became more frantic. Jack felt raindroplets start to trickle onto his head as he knew, they weren't afraid of his gun anymore. From behind his head he heard the sound of a shotgun being cocked. He eased his grip on the trigger and put his hands up, afraid to move too quickly and risk being shot.

[B]"Turn around."[/B] said a raspy voice from behind him.

Jack did as he was told and turned slowly to face a rather large black man. As he expected, the man was holding a shotgun aimed squarely at Jack's head. [B]"Hello, my good man."[/B] Jack said, his hands still up.

[B]"Put the gun on the ground, Mr. Deacon."

[/B]Jack knelt, following the man's orders. He chanced a glance back at his crew, who had by now escaped. Jack knew they weren't in any real danger anyways. He knelt down slowly trying not to stir his captor. As his knee hit the ground, Jack lunged forward tackling the man. He pulled up his gun and aimed squarely between the man's eyes when the shotgun went off. Jack fell backwards, but before his mind could wrap around the pain, he fired as well, killing the large man in front of him. Jack let out a cry that woke the whole damned street. As people rushed to their windows to see what was out there, and those not wanting to get involved closed the shutters and pretended to see nothing. Jack took his right arm and grabbed his left shoulder, which took the lion's share of the shotgun fire. He ran his hand down his shoulder and the upper part of his arm, bringing it rest where a bloody nub was left. He looked around, searching for it, and then he found it. Nearly five feet behind him lied his left arm, mangled by the shotgun fire. He was maimed, and he vomited from the sight of his severed arm, fingers still twitching.

He crawled. Maybe it was instinct that made him try and recover his arm. Somewhere in the back of his mind, he knew he couldn't do anything with it, but still he crawled, blood etching a path from where he was shot to where his arm was. Right as he reached for it, he felt a sharp pain in his gut that knocked the wind out of him. He turned his head and saw three men around him, they all began pummeling him. Jack tried uselessly to fight back, but they were too many, and he wasn't even a whole man anymore. He curled as much as possible to defend his head and stomach, and then from out of nowhere, a bag was tied over his head and he passed out...

Jack awoke to the feeling that he was being drowned. He opened his eyes and still saw only darkness. He was being hung up by one arm. Quickly realizing this, Jack attempted to clench his other fist, before realizing that he couldn't feel it, only the pain of trying to move muscles that weren't there anymore.

[B]"Well well, Mr. Deacon. I'm glad you could join us." [/B]came a voice from beyond the veil. Jack didn't recognize it. [B]"You know, you really captured our hearts. Your services to us, especially in downing the Vigilante have been invaluable."[/B]

[B]"Stop, you're flattering me."[/B] Jack said. He felt a swift pain in his gut. Someone had punched him. He noticed then that he was shirtless.

[B]"Despite your services, we couldn't help but notice you've been siphoning information to various parties outside of the organization. I believe in schoolyard terms that's called 'taddling'."

"Uh-huh." [/B]Jack remarked, [B]"Get to the bloody point, my chest is getting cold." [/B]another punch to the gut.

[B]"The point is. Who have you been talking to? Is it your father? That sister of yours? We must know Mr. Deacon because you've put in jeopardy our whole operation."

"I can't remember." [/B]Jack then felt another punch to the stomach, and another, and another.

[B]"Mr. Deacon, I can not stress the importance of how much we need you to talk. Its simply out of your service to us that you're alive right now."[/B] Jack felt a sharp pain in the stub where his arm was severed. It felt as if someone had taken a knife and stabbed into it. The voice was closer now, almost a whisper. [B]"This isn't a game, Mr. Deacon. Now will you speak up?"

[B]"Alright..." [/B][/B]Jack said. The knife was pulled out of the nub and Jack breathed easy again. He hesitated before answering. [B]"I was taking your mother this amazing recipe for meat pie, really you must-"[/B]

Jack's captors commenced to beat him. Over the course of the next few minutes or so Jack felt everything from steel, to wood, to leather, to fists strike his flesh. He tried not to yell, but every once in a while he couldn't help but let one out. The beatings eventually stopped, and that voice, tired now, spoke into his ear again. [B]"Talk now Mr. Deacon!"

"You know your mother does this amazing thing with her tongue...[/B]"

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The bag was taken off of Jack's head and he found himself inside a cell. His body was blue and purple all over from his sitdown with his captors. His nub, Jack noticed, was bandaged with the exception of a slit where the knife was sunk in. Jack crawled forward a bit on the floor before he heard a voice from behind him.[B] "Take some time and think about what you've done. I doubt even the famous Jack Deacon can escape this time."

[/B][I]Seventeen.[/I] Jack thought to himself. He'd kept count of how many times he'd heard that in his lifetime.

He crawled for a bit before resting on a nearby wall. Every part of his body hurt right now, but at least nothing was broken. Well, if you discount his arm. Jack looked over his surroundings and noticed he wasn't alone in the cell. A young woman sat in the opposite corner, wondering if she should speak or not. [B]"Hello lass. My name is Jack Deacon and if you can't already tell, I've had quite a rotten day. If you could possibly massage my shoulders I'd be obliged to thank you in the near future."

[/B]The woman still looked at him, not really knowing how to respond to what he said. [B]"M-My name's Audrey."

"Well Miss Audrey, how about that offer?"[/B][/COLOR][/FONT]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

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Catherine was already exhausted even though the morning had only just begun. By the time they had gotten her to where Leonhart was last night and Donner Stark had made it clear what would happen if she did not do as told? it had made getting any form of sleep next to impossible. She had wanted to talk to Leonhart or at least attempt to, but he had been so exhausted himself that after a brief discussion he had been unable to stay awake. Catherine had tried to rest, but the conditions of the cell didn?t lend to one being able to sleep. The thin blankets and sleeping pallets were hardly enough to ward off the cooler temperature of the cavern and after waking up repeatedly she had finally given up, electing to study a close up picture of the letters on the cannon.

It pained her to realize that she actually did know what it was, though translating it was another story. She had a notepad along with something to write with, they had already been in the cell with Leonhart, but she was having a hard time bringing herself to actually try to determine what the message meant. After hearing how Callisto Prometheo had been ruthless killed, she didn?t know if she could help them learn how to use a weapon that would be used to kill who knew how many people. It could end up being used to destroy High Czenoble, did she have the right to trade so many lives just to save a few? She turned from where she was sitting at the sound of Leonhart stirring, waiting for him to sit up before speaking.

?[B]This is more than a simple problem Leonhart,[/B]? she said rhetorically, not expecting him to answer, he would know what she meant.

He moved until he was sitting next to her, his voice low so as not to carry beyond their shared cell. ?[B]I know what you are thinking Catherine.[/B]? He sighed gently, tugging at his torn and dirty suit looking down at his hands. ?[B]The dilemma this choice presents. Do I save those closest to me? or do I try to save everyone else?[/B]?

He looked up, ?[B]The psychology behind such a choice is something I never thought I?d have to actually face. I feel as if I have come up short, as if I have failed what I resolved I would do if ever faced with it.[/B]? He couldn?t hide the pain he felt, not from Catherine.

?[B]You?re human Leonhart,[/B]? tears formed in her eyes. ?[B]There?s no shame in that.[/B]? She tried to find words to somehow comfort him, but the awkwardness of their situation made it hard.

?[B]You?ve always done everything in your power to take care of the family, it?s not possible for you to fail.[/B]? She finally finished, feeling like she had failed him as well, with not knowing what to say. She shook her head, wishing she could say something, anything to make him feel better. Instead, she tried to change the subject.

?[B]Do you remember what this is?[/B]? She held up the picture with the letters that were on the cannon for him to look at.

He shook his head. ?[B]It does look vaguely familiar but I don?t know what it means.[/B]?

Catherine lowered the picture, leaning back so her head was against the wall where she was sitting. ?[B]It?s from the Xear Culture.[/B]? She said tiredly. ?[B]Remember it now?[/B]? But his look was still slightly puzzled.

?[B]I guess I shouldn?t be surprised. Some of our current magi technology comes from studying this culture; though what few remnants were found were translated long ago. No one really studies the language of the Xear anymore, only a handful of people bother since there hasn?t been any new discoveries in quite some time.[/B]?

She gave him a sad smile, ?[B]It?s only briefly mentioned in the history of magi technology that all students are expected to learn, so it?s no surprise you don?t remember it.[/B]?

Leonhart's expression became pained. ?[B]Please tell me you don?t know what it means,[/B]? he almost pleaded with her, his look somehow haunted. Leonhart moved so he was sitting cross-legged and facing her from the side, taking her hands in his and squeezing them tightly when tears started to flow down her cheeks.

?[B]I?m sorry,[/B]? she finally choked out. ?[B]I?m far from fluent and it?s been quite some time since I read the books I have on it, but?[/B]? Her throat constricted painfully as she tried to control her emotions, not wanting the others there to see how upset she was. If the Starks knew anything about her at all, then they would know she had an interest in things like that. It was unlikely she could lie and say otherwise.

Leonhart let go at the sound of someone approaching their makeshift cell, scrambling to his feet before helping Catherine stand up as well. It was Donner Stark again, along with four others. Without a word one of them opened the cell motioning for them to exit, something Leonhart simply did. But when Catherine moved to follow him, Donner blocked her path.

?[B]You and I need to have a little talk first,[/B]? Donner stated, causing Leonhart to stop, bringing those guiding him towards the cannon up short. The four merely tightened their grip and pulled him away. Surprising Catherine with the level of restraint they were using, at least for a brief moment until she realized it was only because they still needed him alive.

Once they were well out of hearing range, Donner turned towards her with a knowing look that made Catherine?s heart sink. She stepped backwards without even thinking about it, brought up short by the cave wall behind her. [I]Why can?t you just leave me alone? [/I]She thought, despairingly as he entered the cell, moving until he was only a few feet away. Not knowing what to do she looked down, refusing to meet his gaze.

?[B]Tell me what you know about the language on the device, keep in mind, lies will not be tolerated.[/B]? His voice was deceptively gentle, unlike the colder tone he had used when she first arrived.

Catherine choked a bit, feeling sick to her stomach as a faint feeling came over her. She could feel tears running down her cheeks, she did not bother to reach up and brush them off. [I]Is this how Leonhart felt? When he realized? [/I]She jumped when Donner grasped her chin lightly, using just enough pressure to make her look up at him and nothing more.

?[B]You know what it is.[/B]? It was a statement not a question.

It was more than the threat of harming the family if she didn?t cooperate, it was the utter coldness behind his eyes, a sense of looking into something that had lost a part of itself. It terrified her in a way she didn?t understand. Catherine wondered if she was seeing things as she felt herself begin to tremble in fear. A slight narrowing of his eyes prompted her to finally whisper a single word.

?[B]Yes.[/B]?

He let go of her chin, ?[B]What does it say?[/B]?

?[B]I?[/B]? She faltered a bit. ?[B]I need time, I haven?t studied it in quite some time.[/B]?

He watched her expression as if gauging whether or not she was telling the truth. ?[B]Don?t take too long.[/B]? He finally said before leaving the cell, locking the door behind him.

Once he was out of sight, Catherine sank to her knees as a wave of nausea came over her. Followed shortly by a bout of shaking and more tears as she cried silently. Then once she had managed to compose herself as much as she could, she picked up the picture and tried to remember, to figure out what it said. It really had been quite some time since she had studied it. But hours later, when she was finally done, it made no sense.

[I]?This weapon shall bring an end to misery though only an Almagest can wield it.

But one must do it with pure intentions or everything will end in misery.?
[/I]
Catherine set the notepad aside leaned back against the wall of the cell. Never had she felt such utter despair. She didn?t even try to stop the tears as she cried silently, wishing she had the means to destroy the weapon. When she had finally exhausted herself, Catherine shifted until she was lying on her right side, her back up against the wall, the rattle of the chains from the shackles on her wrists only serving to remind her of how hopeless her situation was. A moment later, with one of the thin blankets covering her, she closed her eyes. Though exhausted or not, she did not expect to actually manage to sleep.

[Gavin]

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[indent][size=1]Perhaps it was age, but Daedalus couldn't help but compare Dynast King Primas to his recently departed father. Many aspects to the man were similar, physically very much so, but something about Primas had a hawkish edge to it that Mideus had seemed to lack, or maybe managed to mask better. Of the three heirs to the Dynast throne, Daedalus had had no preferred candidate, each of them had strength and faults, some far more obvious than others, perhaps of the three, Primas was the best.

Still, the rumours which persisted the monarch could not be easily dispelled, particularly those involving his siblings. For a family with so little loyalty to it's members was, for the Almagest patriarch at least, deeply disconcerting, and did not bode well for his treatment of his future subjects. It was not an ideal situation, but then government rarely was.

His concentration was broken as Air-General Von Heisenberg of the 2nd Fleet concluded his briefing. Of the eight Air-Fleet commanders, he was by far the youngest, a prodigy who'd risen through the ranks of the Air-Fleet faster than anyone in the last century. Despite being dogged by claims his position was as much due to his membership of the Czenovian elite as his military skills, after hearing his briefing, Daedalus made a mental note never to underestimate the thirty-seven year old.

"[b]Air-General Almagest, if you please begin your own briefing.[/b]"

"[b]Of course Highness. As you as well aware, the 1st Fleet is responsible for maintaining the internal security of Czenovia. With the recent surges of unrest among the lower populations, however we have found ourselves in an increasingly difficult position.[/b]"

"[b]How so General ?[/b]"

Primas steepled his fingers as his eyes scrutinised Daedalus for any sign of weakness or hesitancy.

?[b]Due to the somewhat tenuous relationship between the Fleet and the Royal Police Guard, at least in High and New Czenoble, where the latter have purview, we have mostly an observational role, acting only when we feel the Guard are not equipped to handle the threat presented. However, with the recent insurgency, military intelligence has come to believe that there is a dangerous sympathiser, if not out-right traitorous faction within the Guard which has compromised it in dealing with Underdogs.[/b]?

?[b]I see.[/b]?

?[b]Furthermore Highness, Commander Rosier?s tactics in dealing with insurgents has proven disastrous. Their heavy-handed nature, particularly his deployment of the Vigilant with lethal force proved to be a decisive factor in driving the undecided majority populace of New Czenoble directly into the hands of the Underdogs, because of which, our control over the city has been greatly diminished.[/b]?

?[b]Speaking of the Vigilant General, how goes your search to apprehend Jack Deacon ?[/b]?

?[b]As quickly as possible Highness, however, we believe that Mr Deacon has since joined the Underdogs in New Czenoble, which is making his arrest all the more difficult. Rest assured I will bring him to justice with all possible haste.[/b]?

?[b]I trust so General. Please continue your briefing.[/b]?

?[b]Of course. Projections of future Underdog activity is limited due to our relatively meagre knowledge of the group. Their kidnapping of prominent alchemists has lead me to authorise the guard of all major human assets of Czenovia by our most elite counter-terrorists troops, replacing their RPG protectors. As my own family has been the subject of several attacks, I believed it prudent to give them an equally strenuous guard.[/b]?

?[b]Quite so General. My condolences once again on the loss of your daughter Helen, my sister spoke very highly of her.[/b]?

?[b]Thank you Highness, she did her duty to it?s fullest, I could ask for no greater praise. To conclude my briefing, at this moment in time, I have mobilised the entirety of 1st Fleet around the border between High and New Czenoble, with orders to use force against any believed targets attempting to breach between the two cities. I have also several thousand troops positioned on the ground at various strategically advantageous points to accomplish the same goal.[/b]?

?[b]You believe the city to be secure from attack General ?[/b]?

?[b]I do Highness, at least, as secure as I believe it can be made by my troops and intelligence available to me.[/b]?

?[b]Thank you General. Gentlemen, your time has been most valued, I only ask that this is one of the few times you must come before me as a group. Your are all dismissed.[/b]?

As the other Air-Generals continued to gather together their briefs, Daedalus continued to merely watch the Dynast King, it was exceptionally difficult to know what to make of the man, his political and strategic acumen was simply flawless. One by one his colleagues exited through the enormous golden doors of the throne room, until only Daedalus and King Primas remained. With an expression Daedalus would almost describe as lazy, but perhaps better described as unconcerned, Primas regarded him.

?[b]You have more to say Air-General Almagest. Something which could not be said in front of the other Air-Generals ?[/b]?

?[b]I do Highness, it is something which only the Dynast King is made aware of, and by responsibility of their position, the Air General of the 1st Fleet. As I know fulfil the latter role, it is my duty to inform you. Highness, you know of my reputation as Czenovia?s greatest weapon-smith, and that my most dangerous creations are sealed away within Mount Grail itself for use only in our most dire need.[/b]?

?[b]I am aware of this yes.[/b]?

?[b]What you do not know Highness, is that in addition to these armaments, there is something else. An immense, ancient magitechnological cannon, who?s strength I believe is unrivalled, not even remotely by my most destructive weapons. As a young man I discovered this weapon, and when I told your father about it, he ordered it moved to beneath Mount Grail in the most secret circumstances, and that it never be used, lest the entirety of the New Globe view Czenovia to be too great a threat.[/b]?

For the first time, Primas genuinely looked surprised.

?[b]I see General... and this cannon ? How great a power do you believe it possesses ?[/b]?

?[b]I believe that it could easily obliterate the entire Mirror Palace, as well as a great deal of the surroundings. If it would to be fired on High Czenoble, the level of destruction would be the equivalent of several hours of bombardment from the Sentinel?s main guns.[/b]?

?[b]And the cannon itself is secure ?[/b]?

?[b]I believe so Highness. Air-General Litheway assured me that it was under constant guard, I do not believe the Underdogs would be capable of capturing it, and even then, would they be able to activate it.[/b]?

?[b]Thank you for your assurances General, believe me when I say, never in my wildest dreams did I consider something like this cannon existed.[/b]?

?[b]Of course Highness. However, in addition to this, I must inform you that recent knowledge has come to me to believe that my brother Leonhart was not killed in the explosion at Magitech as we previously believed, and that he is instead, a prisoner of the Underdogs along with the other missing alchemists.[/b]?

Primas?s expression returned it?s previous look of contemplation as he studied Daedalus.

?[b]You must be very relieved General.[/b]?

?[b]As his brother, yes, I am. However, as the nations chief defender, I am very worried about what the Underdogs may be forcing the alchemists to do. Leonhart has been trained as a soldier, so I believe he is capable of resisting their instruction, but we must face the prospect that the Underdogs may employ magitechnological weapons against us.[/b]?

?[b]I will keep that in mind General, please, return to your flagship. I will need you to act swiftly in case anything happens.[/b]?

?[b]As always Highness, I will serve.[/b]?

Saluting, Daedalus exited the grand throne room and headed towards his personal shuttle where Harrison would be waiting for him.[/size][/indent]

[James]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/audrey-avatar.jpg[/img] [img] http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/jackavatar.jpg[/img] [/center] Jack winked at Audrey and winced straight afterwards; he was clearly in pain. He sat up against the stone wall with his back propped against it. He was shirtless and his torso was covered in bruises. Just looking at his current state made Audrey feel guilty for feeling so bad about being in the Mirror Palace dungeon; after all, she hadn?t been beaten or attacked. For a moment, Audrey simply watched him. He was the type of man that Audrey?s parents would no doubt have told her to avoid; rugged, carefree, troublesome. He was a fugitive of the highest order and yet, despite sitting there covered in bruises and with a severed arm (which had been hastily wrapped in bandages), he did not seem terribly upset. Jack reached into his trousers and produced a cigar, which he struck against the wall. It flared up in the dimly-lit room and he took a long, deep drag. As smoke billowed from his lips, he seemed to be deep in thought, contemplating his situation. Perhaps he was planning his escape already. As Audrey considered him, she felt conflicted. On the one hand he was the type of man she?d never have mixed with in her past life as a diplomat; under normal circumstances, he might even scare her. Yet he seemed to have a gentle quality underneath his battle-hardened body. Audrey found him oddly attractive, but she wasn?t entirely sure why. Perhaps it was because he had completely rejected the trappings of the aristocracy (she knew the name ?Deacon? well ? as did most Czenovians). Or, perhaps it was that he seemed to carry himself with an air of wisdom; he was obviously a man who had travelled and Audrey had often wished she could travel more herself. Jack looked over at Audrey, breaking her concentration. ?Well,? he said as he took another drag, ?would you care to do a guy a favour?? He puffed a cloud of smoke into the air. Audrey must have balked unknowingly, because Jack grinned and closed his eyes. ?Don?t worry, Lass. I won?t bite,? he said calmly. ?All I really needed was a good cigar, but a shoulder rub would do well. Nothing more than a simple shoulder rub, mind.? As his mouth opened, thick rings of smoke escaped his lips and hung lazily in the air. ?The company of a beautiful woman always helps to ease the pain.? As it was, Audrey was still uncomfortable, but she knew nothing of this man. And if she could ease his discomfort at least a little, it might make both of their stays in the cell easier. The rear of the cell contained two single cots with thin, tattered sheets. It was at least better to have somewhere to sleep, Audrey thought as she finally stood up and approached Jack. He was sitting in between the two cots with his back to the wall. Audrey gestured toward the left cot. Jack grinned and nodded. ?With pleasure,? he said as he stood up and perched himself on the cot?s edge. Audrey sat behind him. The remainder of his left arm looked incredibly sore, but Jack didn?t seem to notice. She put her hands on his back and began kneading along his spine, up towards his neck. ?You look as bad as I feel,? she chuckled. Somehow she knew this wouldn?t offend him. Sure enough, Jack laughed and coughed. ?No doubt,? he said cheerfully. ?It?s the worst I?ve been hurt, but I won?t miss this arm much. Once I get out of here, I?ll be looking for a new one. For now I?m more worried about my ship.? ?A new arm?? asked Audrey, her eyebrow raised. Jack nodded. ?Yeah, they sell automail arms nice ?n? cheap on the black market. Lots of places in Czenovia to acquire that kind of thing.? Audrey suddenly understood what he meant: magitechnology. Although authentic magitechnology was highly expensive, cheaper generic models could often be acquired illegally. As long as the remainder of Jack?s arm didn?t become too infected, it would be possible to have an automail implant attached. ?Oh, wait,? exclaimed Audrey as her hands moved over Jack?s shoulders, ?I think I?ve heard of you. You have visited Rosengard before, haven?t you?? Jack nodded again and puffed smoke into the air. ?Don?t stop, that?s just the right spot ? on my shoulder there, yeah.? Audrey shook her head and smiled. ?Yeah,? said Jack finally, ?I?ve visited a few times. How do you know?? ?I was Vincent Achard?s Personal Assistant,? replied Audrey quietly. Jack paused. ?Oh,? he mumbled. ?Yeah, he was a good man?had a cigar with him once.? Audrey wiped a tear from her eye. Talking about Vincent still raised images in her mind of his brutal death. She had never witnessed a shooting in her life and now she knew she could never forget it. She had been witness to a vicious murder. Jack turned his head. ?You okay, Audrey?? he said with startling gentleness. ?Yes,? she nodded, ?I?m fine. It?s history and I need to worry about getting out of here now.? ?Still,? sighed Jack, ?it?s worth remembering good people. Sometimes their memories get lost in times of war.? Audrey sighed deeply and pressed her fingers into Jack?s lower back. ?Feel better?? She could see the traces of his smile even from behind him. ?I do, thank you Audrey.? He turned around and sat facing her. He was still clearly in pain, but he seemed a little brighter. His cigar was almost spent. ?Want to try it? It?s imported.? Audrey laughed and shook her head. ?Maybe later,? she replied. ?First I think you should tell me more about yourself, especially if we?re going to share a cell for a while.? Jack nodded vigorously. ?Of course!? he chirped. ?And maybe you should do the same. It?s rare that I?m in the company of a beautiful woman who doesn?t seem entirely worried about chipping her nails all the time.? ?I?m just worried about getting a good meal,? said Audrey as she chuckled to herself. ?Priorities change when you?re in prison.? ?Amen,? said Jack, raising his cigar into the air. ?But a therapeutic massage and some good conversation always helps.?

[Sandy]

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[FONT="Georgia"]As soon as she was free from attending the coronation ceremony, Princess Augustine Beauteous made her way down to the abandoned part of the dungeons below Mirror Palace. She had sent a message to the Starks as soon as she had heard her father's choice. It was time to put an end to this all. Now that everyone were gathered to one place, it was a perfect opportunity for a meeting. But Augustine was so worked up by her plotting that she didn't notice that she was being followed.

Augustine arrived to the crumbled cell with a hole on the backwall that the Starks used in their meetings. She turned on the magitechnological torch on the wall, and much to her dismay saw that the person inside the cell was not who she was expecting.

[B]"Oh. You"[/B], Augustine said with clear distain to Blair Stark. [B]"I've grown accustomed to dealing with your husband."[/B]

[B]"My Donner is caught up with something else now, so you will have to deal with me"[/B], Blair replied, with equal loathing in her voice.

Augustine's eyes narrowed. She could always work her feminine charms to bend Donner to her will, but they were useless against Blair.

[B]"Very well. I called you to say that I'm [I]utterly[/I] disappointed in how things have turned out, so I will break off our agreement this instant!"[/B] Augustine bit her tongue, as her words hadn't come out quite like she had intended. That tramp had gotten on her nerves!

[B]"Our agreement was broken a long time ago"[/B], Blair said with a satisfied grin. [B]"If you thought you were our only source of funding, then you were sadly mistaken. We have no use for a Dynast Whore in our plans anymore. We will burn down your precious tyranny, and out of the ashes will be born a glorious democracy where everyone will live free from oppression!"[/B]

Augustine was taken aback by Blair's burning eyes. She was fortunate that there was a row of metal bars in between them. She cursed her stupidity - of course these rats wouldn't have let her ascend to the throne! They didn't want to be ruled by anyone, the savages... But what was this other funder Blair was talking about.

[B]"For someones who are so desperate to be their own lords, you are certainly willing to take money from some higher power"[/B], Augustine mocked.

[B]"Our benefactor will be more than pleased to see High Czenoble up in flames, trust me," [/B] Blair said. [B]"You can rot in this palace of illusions till that time comes, for all I care. We are finished, [I]princess[/I]."[/B]

Augustine was about to retort, but then she saw someone approaching them. It was shady, but she could see that the figure was limping. It could only be one person...

[B]"Brother, what are you doing here?"[/B] Augustine inquired from her twin. Augustus' scarred face was distorted with rage, and his mouth was dripping with saliva.

[B]"I could ask you the same thing, sister!"[/B] the disabled prince shouted. [B]"You're a traitor! A shame to our father's memory! He's barely dead, and here you are plotting against his will!"[/B]

[B]"She has been doing that for much longer than you think"[/B], Blair notioned, withdrawing into the shadows of the tunnel behind her.

Augustus roared. He wasn't strong or tall, but the years of living under shame and neglect had given him inner strength that was about to be unleashed. His fist slammed into his twin sister's face, sending her on her back on the hard stone floor.

[B]"Augustus, please!"[/B] the princess begged. [B]"It's not what you think!"[/B]

[B]"Lies, all lies!"[/B] Augustus bellowed. He grabbed ahold of the torch on the wall and ripped it off from it's hinges. Blinded by the anger caused by the betrayal, he struck again and again, until his sister's screams and cries ceased.

Blair Stark, afraid to show her face, had watched this from the tunnel. Although she hadn't anticipated it, she was glad that the world had gotten rid of yet another wicked soul. Blair wasn't delusional, she knew that she was no better than Augustine had been, and that she would eventually follow the princess to wherever she had gone, but that time wasn't yet. First, she had to ensure a better future for her son and other innocent souls.[/FONT]

[Muse]

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There were only a few choices, and most of them ended in death. Stay here, die. Go out and fight, probably die. Go with Alexander, and only maybe die. After all, Alexander was family, even if only barely. In times like this maybe trust didn't matter, only family.

[b]"Alright,"[/b] Henry muttered finally, but Alexander was already out the door, pausing to look back questioningly at him. Henry eyed the baton in his hands, judged its weight, and followed.

The pair sprinted down hallways, Henry following Alexander's lead, eyes darting from side to side lest he need to defend himself from some attacker. To his very mild surprise, the halls seemed almost empty - every guard, at least every Dynast loyal guard - must have already moved outside to hold back the Jockeys. The Jockeys upon terrible, huge creatures with long claws and sword-like teeth to match... Henry shuddered as he ran; as much as he wanted to get out of the building, he did not fancy going out the front, now.

[b]"What's your plan, exactly?"[/b] Henry muttered, just a step behind Alexander. [b]"Hope to god that we can sneak by an entire revolution-sized group of terrorists without them noticing?"[/b]

In spite of themselves, both men cracked a grin at the image. [b]"Pretty much, yes. And if we can't sneak by, at least you've got a standard issue piece of polished wood at your disposal."[/b]

Henry laughed, loudly, at that. He was about to reply when the pair turned a sharp corner and Alexander held up a hand, stopping Henry abruptly.

[b]"Wait."[/b] Alexander mouthed silently, walking slowly down the new hall and stopping at the end, where a dark room revealed a stair case that winded down and down, lost in the gloom to Henry's eyes.

Henry held his breath as Alexander looked up at the jockey, nodded once, and then crept down the stairs. Presumably, this was the way out. Unfortunately, this was also the way in for the Underdogs.

Henry could hear screaming and shouting from outside. He closed his eyes against the images the noises brought him. He found himself thinking of, oddly enough, Morphia Markham. He hadn't noticed, until now, in what could only be described as mortal peril, how much he missed her. And how much he'd like to survive this whole ordeal, at least to see her again.

All thoughts were interrupted, however, with the sudden sound of loud shouting in the very near vicinity, from the room at the end of the hall.

[b]"Henry! Retreat, back to where we came from! Go!"[/b] Alexander's voice preceded him, but quickly enough the young guard appeared. There was blood on his unsheathed sword.

[b]"What happe-!"[/b]

[b]"Just go!"[/b] Alexander cried, pushing Henry forward with his free hand. [b]"We need to find another way out, just run..."[/b] He said, almost to himself, as the pair took off running yet again.

They did not get very far, however. Three men, furious, had rushed out after Alexander, crude swords drawn and shouting. Alexander, with a deep, determined sigh, spun expertly around, sword up and ready. [b]"Keep running, Henry... Get out the front door, anything."[/b]

In the sudden face of danger, however, Henry discovered a newfound strength. An almost exhilarating sort of power. And if there was anything Henry craved most in life, it was [i]exhilaration.[/i] He stopped short. [b]"Don't be a fool. I've got my polished wood, after all."[/b] He threw a wink at Alexander, his trademark grin spreading slowly across his face.

Alexander had no time to argue - the two front runners, both of average height and build, nothing terribly remarkable about either, collided with him, crashing their own swords down. It was like watching a professional jockey racing a few amateurs – the difference was incredible. Alexander spun this way and that, his sword blocking the first attackers’ before kicking out high and catching the second man in the shoulder, causing him to reel back in pain and surprise.

The third man reached them just as Alexander was pulling his sword out of the first rebel’s stomach with a swift [i]slick.[/i]

[b][i]”Well, now or never…”[/b][/i] Henry thought, pulling his arm back and bringing it around, crashing down on the third rebel’s head with a sickening crack. He toppled to the floor, lifeless, just as Alexander finished off the second rebel with a satisfying slice.

Alexander looked down at Henry’s victim with an almost comical look of shock on his face. [b]”…Thanks?”[/b]

[b]”Don’t mention it… Ever. Again.”[/b] Henry trembled, his face pale and his hands shaking in the slightest. Surely he hadn’t meant to hit him [i]that[/i] hard…

[b]”Deal. More will be coming up soo-“[/b] He looked back down the hall as more shouting made its way up the stairs. [b]”Now. Go!”[/b]

[b]”Did you git ‘im, lads? Lads?”[/b] An inquiring voice drifted its way down the hall and Alexander took off running. In a quick spark of genius (he hoped) Henry stooped down and grabbed the sword out of one rebel’s limp hand. Even though it had been years, Sword Training was a requirement for him at CHAOS, as a son of (sort of) nobility. Hopefully a few lessons would come rushing back to him at the proper time, if needed.

[b]”Sorry, mate.”[/b] Henry whispered to the fallen rebel, patting the man’s chest softly before following Alexander like fire was on his heels.

Down more hallways; Henry felt very much like no progress had been made – they were going back the same direction they came.

The sounds of shattered glass and terrified cries reached their ears all too soon. The pair slid out into the opening foyer, where the bewildered RPG Guards had retreated back into. The Jockeys had followed, Chimaeras and all. It was absolute chaos, bodies strewn around, broken glass littered the floor, giant unnatural beasts flying and clawing around, men and women alike shouting orders and threats around the now crowded foyer.

Both men gaped in complete awe, two unnoticed bystanders, as a giant, fearsome beast stood back on its hind legs in the middle of the room, glowing yellow eyes blazing as it clacked its razor-sharp beak threateningly at the guard members surrounding it. With a sudden, terrible sound like wind rushing past ears at a speed entirely too fast, the monster’s wings opened sharply to their full length, nearly taking up the entire room. Every man surrounding the Chimaera was thrown back like a ragdoll against a nearby wall.

Alexander pulled Henry away from the disorder just as a small Chimaera with five foot claws, its Jockey laughing hysterically, bounded towards them. They ran, again, turning down a new corridor just as they heard shots ring out from where they had just ran from. The Underdogs had arrived.

Henry was devoid of nearly all thought, except [b][i]”Please god, don’t let them have Altheo, not him, don’t let them hurt him.”[/b][/i] His legs were cramping up like mad, he had just killed a man, and yet he followed Alexander, no longer caring about whether or not he could trust him.

He didn’t even notice when Alexander stopped, grabbing Henry’s shoulder almost gently when the younger man kept running. [b]”Here.[/b] He gestured to the door in front of him. [b]”Holding cells. If we just… get inside and block them up, we should be safe. There’s only one way in. We can wait this out.”[/b] Alexander was explaining this as if to a young child, though Henry was thankful for it.

Henry stumbled in before Alexander, very surprised at how dark and musty the holding cell area was. He couldn’t see past his nose. Alexander slammed the door shut, making Henry jump, and the pair waited for their vision to line itself up in the darkness.

[b]”…I didn’t mean to kill that man.”[/b] Henry whispered, mostly to himself.

[b]”It’s alright, Henry. He wouldn’t have thought twice about it if he had done the same to you.”[/b] Alexander sighed, moving forward blindly to put a hand on Henry’s shoulder.

Once they were able to see, even if slightly, they began moving whatever they could in front of the door. A bench and a few chairs were about all they could find. Henry and Alexander each sat down heavily against the makeshift barricade, breathing heavily and lost in their own silent thoughts.
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