(ooc: PM about what? I don't recall... :confused: Sorry Larry! I don't think I got it, whatever it was! )

Anaquei
~She raised an eyebrow insistingly.~ <font color=teal>"I'm afraid it is, Lorath!"</font> ~She smirked, revcoiling her hands to examine the left's nails.~ <font color=teal>"At least as far as I'm concerned."</font> ~She chuckled, looking up at you.~ <font color=teal>"There is going to be some excitement at the Den tonight though - A little party for Lowell and Kalia..."</font> ~She looked at you curiously, tightening her grip on your hip.~ <font color=teal>"You want to come?"</font>

Cyrus
~Cyrus sighed, holding his head up listlessly in one hand.~ <font color=silver>"Personally I think we should skip all this dawdling."</font> ~He straightened from his backward slouch, and let both of his legs stretch.~ <font color=silver>"We know that there's just one leader behind all of this; Just one dragon causing all of this trouble."</font> ~He abesent-mindedly flicked at his new stitches to make sure they were sufficiently tight.~ <font color=silver>"I say we just kill the big one. Without leadership... Or perhaps without pay, all of these bastards'll scatter."</font> ~His cobalt eyes flickered with concern.~ <font color=silver>"Unfortunately, it's kind of like getting the queen bee in the hive, all her minions will die for her first."</font> ~He grinned smugly, looking to Aragorn.~ <font color=silver>"But there are ways the bees might be smoked."</font>

<font color=silver>"If you'll be there, I'd love to go," I told her as I gazed into her beautiful green eyes and ran my right hand through her golden locks. Indistinctly I patted one of the treasures I had found in my pocket and smiled to myself, then held Anaquei's head close to my chest. "So what kind of party will it be anyways?"</font>

With her back turned to the group, Ursula's expression could not be seen. But the knee-jerk reaction of a "hrmph!" upright posture could be detected at Cyrus' mention of a 'dragon'. After a moment's pause, she finally turned, her face darkened ~ <font color=lightblue>"I'll be in my tent if you need me, Aragorn."</font> ~ She spoke coolly, before sweeping past the others and out of the cramped quarters.

Aragorn instinctively glanced at his cousin. She, too, looked startled and her eyes spoke to his ~ Are you sure about this, Aragorn? ~ He saw the fear that swiftly came and disappeared from her face. He knew she would never back out, but her self-doubt seemed almost infectious. She stood, her gaze alternating between Aragorn and Cyrus, chewing her lips subconsciously. Behind her back, her fingers clasped and unclasped.

I have not much of a choice. ~ Lines momentarily formed on Aragorn's forehead ~ Damn Ursula! If she were on our side, things would be easier! ~ It was true; her valour and skills were exceptional strengths, ones he was unlikely to find even in men. Yet now, she was sulking... women! ~ He emitted an involuntary growl, before facing Cyrus.

<font color=white>"Alright, then. A dragon it'll be."</font> ~ Knowing that his tone sounded anything but casual ~ <font color=white>"Soo... any plan that you have in mind that you'd care to share?"</font>

Anaquei
~She smiled up at you, toying absent-mindedly with your golden hair.~ <font color=teal>"Well... It's a baby shower of sorts."</font> ~She chuckled, her hand now tracing your jaw.~ <font color=teal>"Kalia's due for a little one any day now, and Lowell's been a nervous wreck since day one. So Aoln decided to keep the tavern open a little longer, and we're going to throw them a little party."</font> ~Her eyes widened dramatically, she put a finger to your lips.~ <font color=teal>"Mmmmm, but it's a surprise!"</font> ~She recoiled her hand.~ <font color=teal>"Can I trust you to keep a secret?"</font> ~She smirked up at you.~ <font color=teal>"Or do I have to pre-occupy your mouth until the party?"</font>

Cyrus
~The half-elf nodded, relaxing as Ursula left the tent.~ <font color=silver>"Yes I do..."</font> ~He looked somewhat edgily from Aragorn to Fantine and then back.~ <font color=silver>"But I'm going to need a good deal of help from both of you."</font> ~He smiled weakly.~ <font color=silver>"Do all present agree to aid me with full knowledge of the danger at hand?"</font>

<font color=yellow>"Of course..."</font> ~ She had barely spoken two words before Aragorn motioned for her aside. He gazed upon her lovely face, feeling the familiar burden ~ How will she be able to survive an encounter with a dragon?! ~ Just fighting the lizardmen had nearly killed her.

Softly, he said to her ~ <font color=white>"Fantine, I think you'd better stay here, where you are safe."</font> ~ Shaking his head at her protests ~ <font color=white>"No, let me finish... you are the pearl of your loved ones, Arthur included. And I would not want you to put your life at risk like this."</font> ~ <font color=yellow>"As long as you know the risk, I am satisfied."</font> ~ She answered, her cheeks turning a shade redder ~ <font color=yellow>"I wish to go, cousin Aragorn... you know that I do..."</font> ~ Her glistening eyes pleaded with his.

He saw the anguish in her eyes, instantly repelling against what he already knew ~ Impossible. I cannot return her love, when so much weighs on my mind... it would be an unnecesary distraction. ~ He avoided her eyes deliberately, staring right through her ~ <font color=white>"Fantine, it cannot be. Your participation would cause sleepless nights and endless worry for all of us. Please, be obliging and not go."</font> ~ Adopting his most persuasive tone.

With a sigh, she lowered her head in assent and he relaxed. That was her style: womanly, malleable and eager to please. He knew he had only to snap his fingers and she would be more than happy to die for him ~ Well, all the more I must protect her from such a foolish passion. ~ He gave her an encouraging smile, than signalled for her to leave quietly.

This, she did obediently.

<font color=white>"Sorry about that, Cyrus."</font> ~ Aragorn threw a sheepish grin at the half-elf ~ <font color=white>"Family duty and all that... with her out of the way, and possibly Ursula too, we'd be weaker in numbers."</font> ~ His expression turning serious ~ <font color=white>"But I'd definitely have less distractions in my mind."</font> ~ Coughing a little ~ <font color=white>"Let's hear your plan, then."</font>

<font color=silver>"Ooo, nice to hear that something exciting might actually happen around here!" I exclaimed. "Oh, I don't know," I told her, running my hand over her shoulders and down her back. "I'm sure I can keep a secret, but I think it would be good to be safe, you know?" Using my hand as leverage I bring us together, and we kiss for a moment before I pull away. "But wouldn't it also be wise to keep my tongue busy too?" Having said that we join again, more passionate than before and with the vigor of a fanatic.

OOC>>>Spree, I need an idea on how to present Daniel Silverfall into the story, and when to do so. The most important part is between your family and Mistral's,,,but at some point Daniel is supposed to become enemies with your father, steal the twin Scimitars, and I don't know what else. I need guidance, little miss!

OOC>>> As usual, Spree will have the final say, but aren't we about to attack the dragon? Daniel could probably bump into the group :D

ooc: Little miss??? What is this, bicentennial man?

N E Way, I've got a plan... (Smirk)
Daniel said he got his scimitars from a wood-elf, correct? Well, what if the swords were currently in Ravenwood? (HINT HINT) You could bump into us during the dragon fight, then decide to travel with (or follow or stalk or whatever) Cyrus for a bit. Cyrus will be stumbling upon Ravenwood just after the dragon fight, so you can follow him there. Once you get there, you can go about stealing the swords from Ol' Li Wolfrun. Okies?

Cyrus
<font color=silver>"Er, well..."</font> ~Cyrus grinned, tugging absent-mindedly at his boot laces.~ <font color=silver>"You see, once we get this dragon out into the open, our victory is assured. If it escapes the storm of arrows, or even the flurry of spells, it won't escape Incarak."</font> ~He patted the blue katana at his hip.~ <font color=silver>"I've confidence she can outfly a dragon. And she needn't! She only needs to keep up, to stab the thing in the eyes. Once it's blind, it's as good as dead."</font> ~His voice grew excited.~ <font color=silver>"The sea-elves can raise a wall of water to shield its sightless attacks, and we can pick it off at our leisure! It's fool proof! All I've got to do is trod through the heavily trapped den fast enough so that its minions don't get to us. We trek in the night, I find the dragon, I lure it out, it's good as dead!"</font>

Anaquei
(ooc: [img]graemlins/blush.gif[/img] Is it hot in here or is it just me?)
~Anaquei grinned slyly.~ <font color=teal>"Well it never hurt to be cautious..."</font> ~She returned your keen energy with her own neurotic-ness, tickling your jaw with her nimble fingers. When the opposite arm found room to move from your tightly packed bodies, she reached up to your opposite cheek. After a few more rapturous moments, she bit your lip gently, gesturing for you to stop. Her hands fell to your shoulders. There was a roguish glimmer in her eyes as she looked up at you.~ <font color=teal>"I think I'll make like Illuna and run. Something tells me I'll miss the whole party if I stay out here with you."</font>

(ooc: I think we'll be getting more of this... c'mon, you know you like it [img]tongue.gif[/img] )
<font color=silver>I was pretty stunned by Anaquei's readiness and vigor. I stood stunned for a few seconds, my jaw hanging slightly slack. "Hey, wait up!" I call after her. With a quick gait I set off after her, making sure that my pocket remained closed. "You'll need me to spice up the party!"</font>

He was silent for the next twenty seconds, tossing and turning the half-elf's plans in his head, detecting for loopholes. It sounded easy enough... almost too easy, except for the first bit... then...

<font color=lightgreen>"Why would he need your help, yes?"</font> ~ A girlish voice floated in from outside, causing him to jump. But at the sound of the muffled giggles, he was ready. Whipping out his left hand ferociously, he tugged in his "saviour" - there was no mistaking her tone of voice.

<font color=white>"How the devil did you get in? How much have you heard? Where are you from? And what are you doing here?"</font> ~ He demanded, ignoring her obvious discomfort.

<font color=lightgreen>"Let go of me, you brute!"</font> ~ She shrieked lashing out at him with her nails and scratching his right cheek somewhat. At his involuntary release, she stepped aside nimbly, skipping over to behind Cyrus' back ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Is this how you treat those who've rescued your puny life? I do declare you're the most ungrateful, dis- honourable boy I've ever met!"</font> ~ Sticking out her tongue at him vehemently.

With narrowed eyes, Aragorn watched her, feeling the irritation sweep across his body like a consuming fire ~ <font color=white>"Answer my question, or face the consequences of being judged a spy. The fact that you saved my life has nothing to do with it."</font> ~ He unsheathed his long sword and advanced towards her, careful to avoid his friend.

<font color=lightgreen>"Why, of all the louts in the world..."</font> ~ She began indignantly, then smirked as she whispered to herself. To the paladin's dismay, she had disappeared from sight and was quick-witted enough to hold her tongue for once.

Before he heard the sudden breath upon the back of his neck, he felt a painful twist on his left ear, then a hard knock on his head ~ <font color=lightgreen>"You're incredibly rude, Aragorn... yes, that's your name, isn't it?"</font> ~ Another whoosh, and she had stepped out of reach, still invisible ~ <font color=lightgreen>"But then, I'm no better..."</font> ~ As time wore on, she sounded more gay, a sign of her feathers slowly unruffling ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Anyway, if you'll quit being such a stuffy, impertinent and totally inhospitable boy, I might answer some of your questions... if it pleased me."</font> ~ As an after-thought ~ <font color=lightgreen>"I might even abandon my advantage and reappear."</font>

<font color=white>"Alright then."</font> ~ He was still fuming inwardly, but curiousity and the urgency of the cause forbade him from indulging in dramatics. Besides, she did have a point. Grudgingly, he nodded.

A few seconds later, the grown-up imp materialised again. Her dark brown eyes shone as they gazed upon himself, then Cyrus ~ <font color=lightgreen>"That sounds like fun, Cyrus. May I join?"</font> ~ Waving aside Aragorn's sudden outburst ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Ignore Mr Grumpy over there. I have my spellcasting abilities to offer, and many more than Fantine."</font> ~ An enticing smile crept into her lips ~ <font color=lightgreen>"I'm a sorceress, you see... well? How about it then?"</font> ~ She smiled challengingly at the half-elf.

[ 05-15-2002, 10:26 PM: Message edited by: mistral4543 ]

Cyrus
~Cyrus looked at the sorceress, halfway between intrigue and bemusement.~ <font color=silver>"Well I er..."</font> ~The half-elf shrugged.~ <font color=silver>"I don't see why not! We need all the help we can get, Gods know!"</font> ~He looked over at Aragorn curiously.~ <font color=silver>"Is it all right with you? Or is she uh..."</font> ~He grinned.~ <font color=silver>"Too dominating for you?"</font> ~He chuckled.~ <font color=silver>"It's your decision Mr. Grumpy... ER... Aragorn... I'll probably end up dead one way or the other!"</font>

GAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH! I'M OUT OF TIME!! NOOOOO! [img]tongue.gif[/img] Sorry Sephers... ;) Promise I'll post tommorow. Here's a little preview: [img]graemlins/kiss.gif[/img] Hee hee hee...

Hey, no problem Spree. [img]smile.gif[/img] Just do it when you get around to it, and I think that it'll be quite worth waiting for ;)

OOC>>> This is beginning to become a case of ol' Mistral with Silas, isn't it? [img]graemlins/biglaugh.gif[/img] [img]tongue.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/hehe.gif[/img]

IC>>>
He grimaced at Cyrus, ignoring the impertinent sorceress for a moment ~ <font color=white>"Hell's Gate! You too, Cyrus?!"</font> ~ Heaving a sigh, he wondered briefly why this will-o-the-wisp sought death so fervently. Then, shrugging ~ <font color=white>"It's her life, after all... not mine."</font> ~ His eyes narrowed as they turned towards the girl ~ <font color=white>"You'll have to tell us your name, before we even consider you joining us."</font> ~ Arching an eyebrow, he taunted ~ <font color=white>"You DO have one, don't you?"</font>

She glared at him momentarily, taking a full five seconds before responding ~ <font color=lightgreen>"My name is not important..."</font> ~ Waving aside his growing impatience ~ <font color=lightgreen>"... but to satisfy your curiousity, Aragorn... my name is Eilonwy. And that is ALL you need to know."</font> ~ She advanced towards the men, clutching the hilt of her dagger ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Well? Am I in or out?"</font>

Aragorn stared at her long and hard ~ Why the devil would she do this? ~ Feeling a little uneasy ~ Will she prove to be a liability? ~ Yet it was foolhardy to refuse aid offered so freely... And after all, I feel nothing for her. ~ Gritting his teeth ~ Better for her to be dead than either Fantine or Ursula. ~ A pang of guilt washed over him as the next thought struck him ~ And she deserves anything she gets, for this impetuousness.

Looking up, he caught her curious eye and an involuntary flush crept into his cheeks ~ <font color=white>"Very well, then. You may join us, Eilonwy."</font> ~ His voice cool and unemotional ~ <font color=white>"But do not expect special treatment. You'll be on your own. Don't count on us to save you."</font>

Breaking into peals of laughter, she wiped the tears from her eyes as she stammered ~ <font color=lightgreen>"No worries about that, Aragorn... I know how to stay alive... unlike SOME people..."</font> ~ Playfully laying her hand on Cyrus' right shoulder ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Right, then! Let's be off on our adventure and you can fill us in on the details as we near towards our goal."</font>

Aragorn watched the two, inwardly sighing ~ If only it were an adventure...

[ 05-17-2002, 10:07 AM: Message edited by: mistral4543 ]

ooc: Aloha ya'll! I gotta dance to-night (Hawaiin themed!), so don't expect me around from about 6 to 9. ;) I'm gonna see if I can upload a picture. :D Because I look damn good in a coconut bra! ROFLMAO!
Nah, no coconuts, no grass skirts... ( [img]tongue.gif[/img] Sorry Sephi, I know that dissapoints you.)

Anaquei
(ooc: [img]tongue.gif[/img] All right you little monkey, stop flirting and do your homework!)
~Anaquei darted up a thick-trunked tree like a puma. From above she smirked at you, clinging to a limb.~ <font color=teal>"Lorath, dear, it's a baby shower! What're you going to do to 'spice it up' hmmm?"</font> ~She rolled her eyes.~ <font color=teal>"Going to steal the silverware? Eat all the pop-tarts?"</font>~She grinned.~ <font color=teal>"Wait!"</font> ~Her eyes widened.~ <font color=teal>"You're going to rig the musical chairs! SHAME!"</font> ~She laughed, her legs swinging from the branch she was sitting on.~</font>

Cyrus
(ooc: Mistral, Mistral, Mistral... [img]tongue.gif[/img] What am I going to do with you? Taking advantage of handsome, healthy, physically fit young men...)
~Cyrus grinned sideways, a bit of color coming to his pale cheeks.~ <font color=silver>"Right you are Miss! If you'll just give Aragorn and I a minute to pack up..."</font> ~He grabbed his pack from the floor of the tent, slinging it over the opposite shoulder. He turned to Aragorn, shrugging weakly, then turned back to Eilonwy.~ <font color=silver>"Can you ride?"</font> ~He cleared his throat.~ <font color=silver>"ER... A horse that is?"</font>

[ 05-17-2002, 05:30 PM: Message edited by: Killing Spree ]

(ooc: a shame, i would have liked to see that picture! ;) )

<font color=silver>"Oh trust me, I have plenty of ideas!" I winked and stepped under her legs and gave them a slight, playful tug. "Why don't you come on down and I can show you?" Now it was my turn to smirk. "But wait, I guess you'll just have to wait and see at the party, won't you?" Grinning broadly I pulled on her legs and Anaquei fell from the limb and into my arms. After I set her down I place my arm around her waist and resume walking, this time back toward Ravenwood. "You'll have a good time though, I assure you."</font>

[ 05-17-2002, 07:15 PM: Message edited by: SSJ4Sephiroth ]

OOC>>>I will just bring Daniel Silverfall into the picture when I see a good spot to enter. Right now, I see now way to make an entrance, and it not seem awkward.

<font color=lightgreen>"Of course."</font> ~ She flashed a girlish smile at him, then Aragorn ~ <font color=lightgreen>"My childhood was not that deprived."</font> ~ For a moment, her lips parted as if to speak more, but she hurriedly clamped her mouth shut, evading the paladin's gaze. Walking towards the flap of the tent, she grinned at the half-elf ~ <font color=lightgreen>"I can't tell you how thrilled I am to be here."</font>

Aragorn glanced around the room and located his packpack with satisfaction ~ How thoughtful they've been. ~ Ursula and Fantine. Would he return to meet them, ever again? His facial muscle tensed as he thought of the proud fighter whom he had relied on all this while to get the troops geared up ~ A pity that we part on such unhappy circumstances. ~ Then the unassuming, gentle Fantine ~ She'd do well with someone else. ~ Unsure of what she actually meant to him, he shook his head and swung the pack over his shoulders ~ <font color=white>"Let's go."</font> ~ His tone crisp and urgent.

One by one, the three companions emerged from the tent and Aragorn signalled the nearest soldier ~ <font color=white>"Saddle our horses ready, Soloman."</font> ~ The youth was off in a jiffy, eager to please his superior. Hasty footsteps aproached the group and they turned to see Arthur, Ursula and Fantine.

<font color=yellow>"You must be the one who teleported us in."</font> ~ Fantine's cheeks paled somewhat at the sight of Eilonwy ~ <font color=yellow>"Thank you for your assistance."</font> ~ The light in her blue eyes wavered and she toyed with her quarterstaff.

<font color=lightblue>"... and not to mention that you have saved Aragon."</font> ~ The fighter's eyes appeared greener than ever ~ <font color=lightblue>"Aragorn, why does she go instead of myself? For I see you planned to leave without me."</font> ~ Displeasure written all over her dark face.

<font color=white>"I..."</font> ~ He stared at the two ladies, suddenly speechless, silently cursing the boy for not returning with the horses sooner ~ <font color=white>"... you'll be safer here."</font> ~ He managed feebly at last, avoiding Ursula's furious glare.

<font color=lightblue>"Safer? Is that all you have to say?!"</font> ~ Her tone was scornful now, tinged with anger ~ <font color=lightblue>"I did not come out here to be safe, Aragorn! I came to prove myself worthy of being a successor. The successor to the female fighting society!"</font> ~ Furiously, she demanded ~ <font color=lightblue>"Who are you to decide whether or not I am staying here? My father is your superior!"</font>

Too late did she see the error of her actions. The heat came to the paladin's face as his voice grew icy ~ <font color=white>"While in battle, you'll follow Brenner's orders! And in his absence, you'll follow mine!"</font> ~ Wounded pride wore on his masculine face ~ <font color=white>"Do you mean to defy my orders? Or will you once again suppress me with threats of your advantaged position?"</font> ~ He clenched his fists, struggling to keep them from trembling with rage.

<font color=lightblue>"I did not mean that..."</font>

<font color=lightgreen>"Oh, look! The horses are here!"</font> ~ Eilonwy have an incongruous cry of delight, swinging herself up deftly and gazing down upon the group ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Come on, Aragorn! Kiss and make up, and we're off!"</font> ~ Her cheeks were radiant with excitement.

He scowled at the sorceress, his expression softening as he realised her intention ~ <font color=white>"You're right."</font> ~ Turning back to Ursula ~ <font color=white>"Let's not part in such unamicable terms."</font> ~ He offered a formal handshake ~ <font color=white>"I need you to take care of Fantine for me, anyway."</font>

Ursula looked up, her eyes glistening and blinked several times before she found her voice again ~ <font color=lightblue>"I will do that, Aragorn, but you will come back to us as soon as you can. That is your duty."</font> ~ She walked away, without accepting his offer. Resignedly, he turned to Fantine and gave her a weak smile ~ <font color=white>"Goodbye, Fantine."</font>

With that, he, too, leapt onto his horse as Cyrus did so. The three companions thus began on their journey.

The journey to the dragon's jaws...

[ 05-17-2002, 11:34 PM: Message edited by: mistral4543 ]

<font color=skyblue>Daniel Silverfall

Tired he was from so much walking. He had run out of tunes to whistle and was now low on supplies which had him living off of whatever he could find. Experience in the field had taught him alot about living off the land, so he was not desperately starving.

In the distance, he thought he could see riders on horseback, but they were too far away for him to determine who they were or do anything useful, other than wish he had a horse. He decided to turn a tad bit to the right and trail them anyway. They were the first live things he had seen yet on this long journey. Maybe they would not kill him, if he was lucky.</font>

[ 05-17-2002, 09:51 PM: Message edited by: Larry_OHF ]

ooc:
WHAT A NIGHT! ~Flops down~ You shoulda been there Seph!
Who wants to see the pictures?!!
<a href=http://community.webshots.com/scripts/editPhotos.fcgi?action=viewall&albumID=38263113> Click Here!</a>
:D Hee hee... Just 4 of 'em now. ;) Tell me if ya'll have any trouble. Ah... I'll post a seperate thing for IC replies. [img]graemlins/hehe.gif[/img] Sephi's gotta see this, NOW! ROFLMAO!

OOC>>> Spree, I ain't a member so I can't access the pics [img]graemlins/verysad.gif[/img] But glad that you enjoyed yourself :D

ooc: Spree, i can't access the photos, probably for the same reason Mistral can't. [img]graemlins/crying.gif[/img] glad to hear you had a good time though, maybe you can put a few of them up on Stealthy's (or email them to me!) :D

ooc: Grumble grumble grumble... ;) Internet fried on me last night... Okies though, I just e-mailed 'em to Sephi. :D Tell me if you wanna see 'em Mistral. Larry, you'll hafta tell me which e-mail address to send 'em to if you want 'em.

Anaquei
~Anaquei shot you a sideways glance, grinning complacently.~ <font color=teal>"Oh I'm sure!"</font> ~Chuckling, she looked up at the canopy. She gasped.~ <font color=teal>"Oh no!"</font> ~She tugged at your arm, starting to quicken the pace.~ <font color=teal>"The sun's going down! I've got to get back to the den and help Aoln set up! Come on!!"</font>

Cyrus
~Cyrus hummed as the trio trecked listlessly along.~ <font color=silver>"Hmmm hmm hmmm..."</font> ~They were moving at a comparitively slow pace, taking their time on the march to iminent death. Suddenly his tune stopped, and he whispered to his comrades.~ <font color=silver>"Hush... Stop a moment."</font> ~The rogue's ears strained, and he quietly slipped off his horse, handing the reigns to Aragorn for safe keeping. He padded softly across the ground, listened, then grinned, calling back to his friends without turning his searching eyes.~ <font color=silver>"I thought I heard something. I'll just take this a precautionary measure..."</font> ~Drawing out his katana, he grinned and commanded.~ <font color=silver>"Incarak khil neogyth nay gurth."</font> ~With that the blade sprung happily from his hand, keeping enchanted watch for intruders. Should it find one, it would gladly prevent them from moving until its master could investigate. The sword flying keenly alongside, Cyrus remounted his horse and the party started off again.~

[ 05-18-2002, 10:57 AM: Message edited by: Killing Spree ]

(ooc: very nice pictures Spree, I'm sure you had fun!)

<font color=silver>I gasped as well, and set off after her. Before we went too far I activated my innate Haste spell, speeding us both up so that we would get there faster. We ran the whole way, and arrived back at the edge of town just as the sun was a mere sliver on the horizon of an orange sky. "Just in time," I managed to say through gasps for air. The haste spell wore off and I had to stagger my way toward Aoln's inn.</font>

Digging her heels onto the sides of the horses a little, Eilonwy prodded it forward to beside the half-elf ~ <font color=lightgreen>"That's a fine blade you have there, Cyrus."</font> ~ She murmured softly in awe ~ <font color=lightgreen>"It hums a tune of its own... I hear it..."</font> ~ She tossed a glance at the silent paladin who rode with a hardened expression on his face.

Aragorn looked through her, far beyond, his mind was drifting a little ~ Ursula, you've got to protect Fantine... ~ He barely noticed the dancing katana swivelling around them in a sinuous rhythm ~ Fantine, you will stay back there, won't you? ~ It suddenly seemed a horrible idea to have left those two ladies behind ~ Will they trail us? Is that what Cyrus was mumbling about?... What was it that he said, anyway? ~ Uncharacteristally, a lost look clouded his eyes as he dully urged the horse along.

<font color=lightgreen>"Get a grip of yourself."</font> ~ He started as he felt a cool hand upon his wrist. Looking up, he met Eilonwy's solemn countenance, the first time she wore one since they had met ~ <font color=lightgreen>"You've made your choice, Aragorn. Live with it. Live in the now."</font> ~ At his instinctive glare, she shook her head ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Don't start that now, please. You know I've nothing against you."</font> ~ A mischievous grin persistently crept onto her lips ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Except for when you charged towards me like a madman, waving that ridiculous long sword."</font>

With reluctance, he returned the grin, albeit wearily ~ <font color=white>"It is my family blade."</font> ~ Subconsciously running his fingers along the scabbard ~ <font color=white>"It is the pride of the Brightblade family, and has served many generations."</font> ~ I hope I do not disgrace it...

<font color=lightgreen>"Yes, the Brightblade family..."</font> ~ She spoke to herself quietly ~ <font color=lightgreen>"... or the Freelight..."</font> ~ Jolting as he, in turn, grabbed her wrist.

<font color=white>"How did you know that?"</font> ~ For a strange reason, he almost choked at the sound of the name ~ <font color=white>"How is it that you know so much about me, while I know nothing about you?"</font> ~ It was so unfair! She had the advantage in almost aspect.

<font color=lightgreen>"If we survive this adventure, I will let you know all that you want."</font> ~ Once again, she lapsed into a pensive mood ~ <font color=lightgreen>"But now, you must do your part, Aragorn."</font> ~ Her voice was hypnotic ~ <font color=lightgreen>"You must be alert, and help us live to fight that beast. Then become a hero, a pride to your family..."</font> ~ Her eyes sparkled in the moonlight ~ <font color=lightgreen>"... and then, we shall sit around the fireplace and share as many stories as we would like."</font> ~ With that, she pulled her hand away and continued to keep up with Cyrus, ignoring him.

Aragorn took a deep breath, then exhaled. All that she had said made sense. Imp that she was, she had her serious moods. And she was so right ~ What was I thinking of?! ~ With renewed spirit, he now flicked the reins of the horse, and together they made their way to the front, closely behind their companions...

Anaquei
(ooc: ;) Thank you Sephi. Wish you could of been there! :D We coulda moshed!)
~Aoln looked on quizically as two panting elves entered his tavern.~ <font color=indianred>"What in Corellon's name happened to you two?"</font> ~He chuckled, putting down the cup he'd been washing.~ <font color=indianred>"You look like you tried to outrun a wolf pack!"</font> ~Anaquei grinned weakly and gasped through uneven breaths.~ <font color=teal>"Well... We... I had to... Get back to... Help... So..."</font> ~She nodded her head, satisfied with the answer.~ <font color=teal>"Yeah..."</font> ~Aoln raised an eyebrow.~ <font color=indianred>"Well what had you so pre-occupied that you had to-..."</font> ~He paused, looked at you, then held up a ceasing hand.~ <font color=indianred>"Never mind."</font> ~Anaquei, who had now nearly caught her breath, chimed in.~ <font color=teal>"So... Where should we start?"</font> ~Aoln returned his critical gaze to you once more.~ <font color=indianred>"He's helping too I take it?"</font> ~Anaquei bit her lower lip.~ <font color=teal>"Ummm..."</font> ~She smiled at you.~ <font color=teal>"Yeah. He'll help."</font> ~Aoln nodded, then pointed you two in opposite directions.~ <font color=indianred>"Right. Ana, you can clean the tables... And Lorath, you can sweep."</font> ~Turning back to his dishes, he added.~ <font color=indianred>"And be quick about it if you can!"</font>

Cyrus
~Cyrus yawned shamelessly, drawing his dark cloak tighter around him. He decided to make idle conversation to escape his sudden bout of boredom. (As he'd been yawning from sheer lack of activity more than fatigue.)~ <font color=silver>"So, my friends..."</font> ~His trail of thought was interrupted as the katana paused deftly, pointing to the left, moving fluidly as if it were stalking something. The elf chuckled.~ <font color=silver>"Watch this... She's found something... It's a bloody good show if I might say so. Though Gods know I'm easily amused... Ah, but look!" ~The blade crept level with the long grass, humming and glowing.~</font>

Eilonwy's eyes swept in the direction of the blade, straining to catch a glimpse of the intruder ~ <font color=lightgreen>"We've been trailed all this while?!"</font> ~ Her hiss smacked of annoyance more than anything else ~ <font color=lightgreen>"Whoever it is, we'll see how well he resists my spells..."</font>

<font color=white>"Hold."</font> ~ Aragorn raised his hand, signalling for her to calm down ~ <font color=white>"Let's see what it is, first. No point wasting your valuable spells if it's just some goblins or so."</font> ~ He felt his heartbeat nevertheless increasing, as thankful as Cyrus for the break in monotony.

Together, the companions watched in silence, awaiting for the blade to reveal the truth of the situation...

OOC>>> Spree, I'd like to see the pics too. They aren't too big, are they [img]graemlins/1ponder.gif[/img] I'll let you know if I don't receive them...

ooc: ;) OK, I just sent 'em to both of ya. [img]smile.gif[/img] I'm waiting for Larry to post IC. (Hint, the swords going after YOU. Come out with your hands up!! ROFL!)

OOC>>> I got them, and (hope this doesn't get me clubbed) Spree looks so pretty and sweet! :D By the way, it's like 1.30 am... what am I doing here?! [img]graemlins/saywhat.gif[/img] Hrm, looks like I'll have to leave just when things are heating up [img]tongue.gif[/img]

Have fun, everyone, and see you in a few hours' time!! [img]graemlins/happywave.gif[/img]

(ooc: Spree, did you get my reply email?)
<font color=silver>"Sure, I'll help!" I answer. But when told to sweep, I begrudgingly pick up a broom and begin, working rather slowly as there's little motivation. I smile at Anaquei whenever we're both facing each other, but other than that I'm completely absorbed in the task.</font>

ooc: Pretty and sweet...? Wheeeeeeee!!! ~Hugs Mistral until her eyes pop out.~ *Ahem* Sorry... I'm used to scrawny and sarcastic... So it's uh... ;) Kind of nice to hear.

[img]tongue.gif[/img] And yes Sephi, I got your e-mail. You sly devil you... :D You like my braces. [img]smile.gif[/img] I'm gonna e-mail you back after this.

Anaquei
~After a while Aoln called out.~ <font color=indianred>"Okay! That's good for now, get over here!"</font> ~You and Anaquei obediently filed in front of the bar. Aoln continued.~ <font color=indianred>"We've got to get this place decorated now. Ana, you can set the tables, and Lorath... You're tall, so you can hang the streamers. I'm going to be in the kitchen if you need me."</font> ~He glared at Anaquei before retreating.~ <font color=indianred>"Don't get into trouble!"</font> ~Anaquei nodded, smirking at you.~ <font color=teal>"Oh don't worry, we won't!"</font> ~Aoln rolled his eyes.~ <font color=indianred>"Yeah right..."</font> ~Then dashed into the kitchen.~

<font color=silver>"Oh don't worry, we'll get the job done," I told him, grinning. Immediately I set about, hanging up the streamers in pretty much anywhere that looked like it needed one. Every once in awhile though, I 'accidentally' dropped one so that I could bend down and pick it up, then kiss Anaquei on my way back up, if only briefly. Before too long I was nearly finished, and I had just two more to put up, but to me it seemed like there were no places that needed one so I just stood around confused.</font>

OOC>>> ~ Groping in the darkness ~ "Where are those darn eyeballs?" ~ Staggers forward ~ "Yoohoo! Where are you, my sweeties?" ~ Stiffening at the touch of a warm hand ~ "Who goes there?" ~ Then smiles briefly at the sound of Larry's voice ~ "You've found them for me? Why, thank you..." ~ With one swift movement, she shoves the eyeballs back into her sockets and begins ranting ~ "Where have you been all day? Hurry up, we're all waiting for you!!" [img]tongue.gif[/img]

OOC>>>Oops! How did I let this slip by! I need to be punished, I suppose...tee-hee!

<font color=skyblue>Daniel Silverfall

Daniel had been walking for a long time, and now the hill he was climbing was probably going to get the best of him. Finally making it to the top, he collapsed, happy as ever to finally have some level ground to tread on. Looking up from his ridiculous position, not only was he a bit surprised to see a katana glowing and floating in the air at him, but the people he had been anxious to meet up with were there, staring at him in odd amusement. All he could say was...
"uh oh..."</font>

OOC>>> Bad Larry!! You have committed a grievous sin... you delayed the plot of the best RPG in the forum. How could you?! [img]graemlins/troutslap.gif[/img] [img]tongue.gif[/img] :D

ooc: C'mon, let's keep it going! I want to get back to kissing with Spree! :D Woops, did I say that? [img]graemlins/blush.gif[/img] I meant that Lorath wanted to get back with Anaquei. ;) Yeah, that's what I meant...

ooc: I NEED to study!! ~Grumbles and messes with his hair.~ Cocoa puff! [img]tongue.gif[/img]

;) OK folks, I REALLY can't play tonight. But I will be able to tommorow I believe! ~Sighs~ Just for another two days! Then I'll be done with finals!

[img]smile.gif[/img] And with the academic aid of our good friend Sephi, I think I shall do fairly well. ( [img]graemlins/hehe.gif[/img] I'm inflating his ego and giving him too much credit, but that's OK!) He did help me kick into gear and nip those counties in the bum.

Speaking of Larry! You're a bad, bad, naughty bumbling ranger! And we've but one punishment in the castle Anthrax! :D

OK! Nighty night ya'll!
Hugs Mistral gently, so as not to provoke eyeballs.
Gives Larry a swift kick to the posterior (Smirk!)
Smooches Sephi publically just to inflate his already bulging ego. (Don't worry Pyro-Bunny! The albino oompa-loompa won't have any nasty thoughts about you!)

ooc: I NEED to study!! ~Grumbles and messes with his hair.~ Cocoa puff! [img]tongue.gif[/img]

;) OK folks, I REALLY can't play tonight. But I will be able to tommorow I believe! ~Sighs~ Just for another two days! Then I'll be done with finals!

[img]smile.gif[/img] And with the academic aid of our good friend Sephi, I think I shall do fairly well. ( [img]graemlins/hehe.gif[/img] I'm inflating his ego and giving him too much credit, but that's OK!) He did help me kick into gear and nip those counties in the bum.

Speaking of Larry! You're a bad, bad, naughty bumbling ranger! And we've but one punishment in the castle Anthrax! :D

OK! Nighty night ya'll!
Hugs Mistral gently, so as not to provoke eyeballs.
Gives Larry a swift kick to the posterior (Smirk!)
Smooches Sephi publically just to inflate his already bulging ego. (Don't worry Pyro-Bunny! The albino oompa-loompa won't have any nasty thoughts about you!)</font>[/QUOTE]ooc: G'night, wonderful Spree! SMOOCHES back, even if it was just to inflate his ego! (I'll bet you just confused everyone reading this thread, especially with the albino oompa-loompa. [img]tongue.gif[/img] ) Don't worry, I won't be cruel enough to call you by your nickname. I think the others would be too tempted to use it if they should learn it. ;)

[ 05-20-2002, 11:12 PM: Message edited by: SSJ4Sephiroth ]