((OOC: DONE))
After the night of Charlie's diagnostics. There had been a particularly somber mood near the hospital bed. Ever so often Punja would drop by the intercom now that she was in Greenland and had established ties with several neutral regions in the area. Rumors going about she creating her personal mega-lab in the region. She did not seem to be evil, but it was clear that she did not care too much for those around her as she had her own agenda. If anything, she seemed direct and hard to barter with. She often repeated the phrase " Science is stronger than Chaos." As if it was glued to her mind somehow. She seemed at times to completely ignore, or focus too strongly on her experiments to worry about Charlie. Yet, her calls aside, there was really very little talking going on. Charlie, for his part, was either asleep, or wishing he was. The weather outside was in a terrible condition overall, and Charlie's skin had mutated more and more by the minute. His right side being more infected than his left. Growing claws, twisted teeth and even a tail. The alteration was quite rapid at one point, but it seemed to have slowed down once his body caught up with the transformations. It would hurt for Charlie for a few months before it would feel natural, but even then, there could be no hiding his identity anymore. He could no longer be considered human. He was a corrupted.
[color="LightBlue"]" Leave me."[/color] He said suddenly, after hours of not saying anything. Fredrick followed Vivian into the hall not too far from this room. The mood seemed to be ill, but Fredrick told Vivian the following. [color="LightBlue"]" I am.... extremely sorry for all this. I know how much your nation has done for him already. If not for you, he would be dead by now, and..... he is alive. His brain is still largely the same from the scans. You saved him, and, only seem to be rewarded with sadness at this moment. Our lord works in mysterious ways, yet, I've always thought that this sadness makes a man better somehow. That although suffering is a toll on it's own, it can be their greatest reward. I must admit I miss the peaceful days I enjoyed back at the monastery. Baptista.... well, he was another man back then. He was always willing to share from his humble rations of food and work to cover for others. He thought that hard work was love, and it would be the only way to truly see worth in life. Yet.... during the first chaos attack. His son and daughter were forcefully conscripted. Baptista too was forced to work in the labs which is were he meet Charles. During the last stand.... Baptista was said to have lost both his daughter and his son. He... He also had a secret wife. I would know, as he choose me to be their priest during their ceremony. She was a wonderful lady, as kindhearted as Baptista himself was during that time, yet, the war against chaos.... I am not sure it would have been won had it not been for Charles and Baptista. Some of their efforts included gruesome sacrifices, even of civilians. Yet.... It held Chaos back, and eventually, drove them back into the abyss."[/color]
Fredrick tried to cover for his eye, as there was a tear emerging. [color="LightBlue"]" I..... I fear for the emperor and his soul. The things that emerged during that war, no man could stand whole after facing such a foe. He seemed increasingly tired as the days went by... As if he simply wanted it all to end. Baptista, after the war was a broken man in many aspects, but it did not take long for him to request his new position on Charles right hand. He is.... to say the least, effective, but I think he is broken too. At times, I would see glimmers of his past, but, there is a rage within that man unlike anything I have seen. I find myself powerless to talk to him about it...."[/color]
*Suddenly, the sound of breaking glass could be heard*
Fredrick: [color="LightBlue"]What on God's green earth is this?
[/color]
*Both Fredrick and Vivian would go towards the room were Charlie lay hospitalized. Only to find him gone, and the windows completely shattered. Upon looking down. One could see a small figure, hidden within the mist moving around towards the ground. He could apparently, in this new form, scale buildings. To have been so wounded just a few moments ago, his recovery must have been incredible. At this moment, Punja's inter cube turned active again as she said the following.
[color="LightBlue"]"Fredrick, do you know who is the division leader o...... What? The heir has escaped? That's...... not good. That brat has always been a thorn, but I'd rather not be crucified by his fathers wrath should anything else happen too him. Sorry guys, I am letting Baptista in on this, save all the information of Chaos of course. That guy has such a poor eyesight he would not be able to tell a priest from a prostitute these days."[/color]
*This being said, the other intercube came up, and yes, it showed Baptista who would at this time be near the NHRE Suez Channel city project. The weather was quite bad on his side as well, but he did not seem to mind. He turned towards the intercube and simply said.*
[color="LightBlue"]"What is it?"[/color]
Fredrick stuttered as he said. [color="LightBlue"]" M... my lord. The heir has escaped! We have gotten a track on his location however! We will be giving you the co-ordinates of his locations. I suggest you grab a hopper and get to our position as soon as possible!"[/color]
Baptista looked annoyed at this and said. [color="LightBlue"]" I do not know why the emperor places so much trust in either of you. If you cannot guard a child, you are not fit to lead or represent any nation! I shall see you at the co-ordinates. Pray that he is well."[/color]
*His location changed rapidly several times. It showed him creeping through pipes and various other hard terrain. Yet, finally there seemed to be hope as he had managed to go so far down into a rather isolated sewer system. On the outside, Fredrick and Vivian had managed to locate the entrance, not a moment too soon however could they see Baptista slowly walking towards them. He had no security with him, yet seemed to be in a better mood than his last transition. He smiled, extended his hand towards Vivian and said.
[color="LightBlue"]" Forgive my last outburst.... I was.... Busy... Doing some construction direction. The workers in my nation have no sense of aesthetics after all and need all the guidance and.... persuasion to do their job right. But, I shall see that they do their jobs as good architects, even if it kills me."
[/color]
Baptista did chuckle.
[color="LightBlue"]" Or if it kills anyone else for that matter."[/color]
Fredrick looked speechless, but Punja took the initiative in the conversation over the intercom. [color="LightBlue"]" Ahead seems to be only one long tunnel. The heir has stopped moving for the time being. He trusts all of you, but approach him too rapidly, and he will run away again. Vivian, you're the only one who could keep up with his speed. So you're going in. Fredrick, you follow. Baptista, guard the gates for the time being. Be quick, but also cautious. Baptista, if this goes well, I will contact you over the intercom and request you get over to Greenland ASAP, I have finished the project you requested me to work on, and Charlie does not need any of your lectures right now."[/color]
Baptista smiled and rested his back towards the wall near the entrance. [color="LightBlue"]" Very well, but you owe me Punja, even more than what you already do."[/color]
Of Nations and States: Reborn
107 posts •
Page 4 of 4 •
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Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part II
Vivian gave Baptista an odd look at his statements, he was hardly Vivian's superior and had no right trying to order him around. Still, he felt it was best to try and find Charlie as quickly as possible, even if it was to get him to escape. If Baptista determined his current condition, they would likely hunt him to his grave. At the very least, he had to warn them that they were tracking him somehow.
Vivian looked into the ancient systems below, there was a walkway next to the primary drainage pipe, going down into a sewer was hardly the most sanitary thing to do and unless they were careful, a slip into the sluice would leave more then a nasty smell. Vivian thus made his way down carefully along with a couple of other escorts that had responded in the area. One of the USCU members quickly made sure to turn on the lighting system which lined the roof-tops and was connected through a series of hanging thick wire systems connected to the local power grid.
Inside, was the well constructed brick walls and side-walkways of the ZODEAC sewer, which provided a path into the depths of the tunnels. The water levels were raised slightly from the rainstorm and one had to carefully over-step puddles on the floor to avoid stepping in the waste-water from time to time. The side-walls were lined with various water-proof doors for supplies or occasionally a secret stash of some world-weary Oniru. To the un-initiated, the Sewer system would be a terrifying maze, the flood waters had set rats to line the sides of the wall and roaches flicked their antenna in disgust at their surface dwelling intruders.
One by one, the party was carefully lead into the sewers, rushing too quickly would only lead to more risks and besides which... it would spook the rats - and that couldn't be a good thing. As they turned into the deeper sections indicated by the path on Fredricks Com unit however, there was a look of surprise to be had, the shifting Earth of East Africa had opened a gash in the wall, leading into some kind of dark ancient work. The musty air from within invited them with a moist cold welcome, it smelt stagnant and untouched to Vivian's nose as though it had been left undisturbed by all save his rodent companions for generations.
[color="LightBlue"]"It looks like he crawled through there,"[/color] Vivian said with amazement [color="LightBlue"]"This looks incredibly ancient, it might not even be safe to go in there, who knows how long that space has been untouched, or how crowded it will be to get through in places."[/color]
Vivian moved his head into the hole, only to pull it out in a rush at the hiss from a frightened rat which quickly scurried away with it's friends, only to be replaced by others. Vivian looked back at his companions from the USCU, [color="LightBlue"]"I need you to stay here while I go ahead."[/color] he stopped them as they were about to object, [color="LightBlue"]"In case something happens, I need you to be able to direct help here so that we can get out."[/color]
After the group had come to an agreement as to how to proceed, they jumped headfirst into the abyss, using flares to light the way and scare off the rodent defenders. They moved at first on their hand's a knees, Fredrick was the only one that had slightly more trouble making it through the gap. As expected the inside greeted their eyes with rough ancient brick-work which expanded into vast hallways, layered with mold and dust from ages past. Decayed papers were strewn about, their form so decayed that none could still read what they once said. Old statues of Oniru stood at each door-way within, their eternal gaze meeting the wayward explorers with gilded reflection and bones of former residents lay by the side broken bones now inhabited by all manner of creatures, who's beady eyes questioned these strange lurkers in the night.
Vivian was well aware that this structure must have only opened recently as no traces of recent activity were present other then the strong smell of Charlie who had apparently traveled ahead. The structure dated back well over several hundred years to one of the old Oniru Kingdoms. It was likely outfitted with innumerable passage-ways, many hidden that would lead ever deeper into this rabbit hole. These were often outfitted with water mechanisms that cleaned the surfaces of any scent to hide their presence from would-be followers. Some of these would lead to vast treasure-troves stored away, others to massive libraries of hidden knowledge their masters believed in during their day and age - of course, given the age, any path could just as well lead to death.
The last part didn't concern Vivian however, who's fascination with what he had just discovered overwhelmed any sense of concern. [color="LightBlue"]"He took this path,"[/color] He responded as he lead the group ever deeper, [color="LightBlue"]"Remember to tread lightly, this thing isn't exactly up to modern engineering standards and I get the feeling we're the first ones down here to view these things with sentient eyes in quite some time."[/color]
As they rounded the maze-like structure, Vivian was suddenly struck by the sound of a cough from around the corner, his trance on the blinking red dot vanished as he was suddenly aware that they were very much on top of the boy. This was his chance to let Charlie know that they were able to follow him somehow, and so he yelled out, [color="LightBlue"]"The signal is right up ahead, Charlie must be located there, Charlie! Can you hear us! I have come with Fredrick and Baptista!"[/color] he said turning the corner, his Vesari eyes seeing Charlie at the end of a dark and vastly worn hallway. As he turned the corner quickly, he felt the earth beneath him shift ever so slightly, causing him to naturally slow in a fear that he could neither define at that moment, nor deny in instinctive will.
In this dim lighting, with so great a distance, it would be impossible for anyone to tell Charlie's current form, but unless he took the opportunity to run once again, that situation wouldn't remain... of course... why had he suddenly frozen? What was this nagging feeling telling him to stay back? He whispered 'stop' just beneath his breath but couldn't exactly understand why... but his stomach told him that something wasn't right.
Vivian looked into the ancient systems below, there was a walkway next to the primary drainage pipe, going down into a sewer was hardly the most sanitary thing to do and unless they were careful, a slip into the sluice would leave more then a nasty smell. Vivian thus made his way down carefully along with a couple of other escorts that had responded in the area. One of the USCU members quickly made sure to turn on the lighting system which lined the roof-tops and was connected through a series of hanging thick wire systems connected to the local power grid.
Inside, was the well constructed brick walls and side-walkways of the ZODEAC sewer, which provided a path into the depths of the tunnels. The water levels were raised slightly from the rainstorm and one had to carefully over-step puddles on the floor to avoid stepping in the waste-water from time to time. The side-walls were lined with various water-proof doors for supplies or occasionally a secret stash of some world-weary Oniru. To the un-initiated, the Sewer system would be a terrifying maze, the flood waters had set rats to line the sides of the wall and roaches flicked their antenna in disgust at their surface dwelling intruders.
One by one, the party was carefully lead into the sewers, rushing too quickly would only lead to more risks and besides which... it would spook the rats - and that couldn't be a good thing. As they turned into the deeper sections indicated by the path on Fredricks Com unit however, there was a look of surprise to be had, the shifting Earth of East Africa had opened a gash in the wall, leading into some kind of dark ancient work. The musty air from within invited them with a moist cold welcome, it smelt stagnant and untouched to Vivian's nose as though it had been left undisturbed by all save his rodent companions for generations.
[color="LightBlue"]"It looks like he crawled through there,"[/color] Vivian said with amazement [color="LightBlue"]"This looks incredibly ancient, it might not even be safe to go in there, who knows how long that space has been untouched, or how crowded it will be to get through in places."[/color]
Vivian moved his head into the hole, only to pull it out in a rush at the hiss from a frightened rat which quickly scurried away with it's friends, only to be replaced by others. Vivian looked back at his companions from the USCU, [color="LightBlue"]"I need you to stay here while I go ahead."[/color] he stopped them as they were about to object, [color="LightBlue"]"In case something happens, I need you to be able to direct help here so that we can get out."[/color]
After the group had come to an agreement as to how to proceed, they jumped headfirst into the abyss, using flares to light the way and scare off the rodent defenders. They moved at first on their hand's a knees, Fredrick was the only one that had slightly more trouble making it through the gap. As expected the inside greeted their eyes with rough ancient brick-work which expanded into vast hallways, layered with mold and dust from ages past. Decayed papers were strewn about, their form so decayed that none could still read what they once said. Old statues of Oniru stood at each door-way within, their eternal gaze meeting the wayward explorers with gilded reflection and bones of former residents lay by the side broken bones now inhabited by all manner of creatures, who's beady eyes questioned these strange lurkers in the night.
Vivian was well aware that this structure must have only opened recently as no traces of recent activity were present other then the strong smell of Charlie who had apparently traveled ahead. The structure dated back well over several hundred years to one of the old Oniru Kingdoms. It was likely outfitted with innumerable passage-ways, many hidden that would lead ever deeper into this rabbit hole. These were often outfitted with water mechanisms that cleaned the surfaces of any scent to hide their presence from would-be followers. Some of these would lead to vast treasure-troves stored away, others to massive libraries of hidden knowledge their masters believed in during their day and age - of course, given the age, any path could just as well lead to death.
The last part didn't concern Vivian however, who's fascination with what he had just discovered overwhelmed any sense of concern. [color="LightBlue"]"He took this path,"[/color] He responded as he lead the group ever deeper, [color="LightBlue"]"Remember to tread lightly, this thing isn't exactly up to modern engineering standards and I get the feeling we're the first ones down here to view these things with sentient eyes in quite some time."[/color]
As they rounded the maze-like structure, Vivian was suddenly struck by the sound of a cough from around the corner, his trance on the blinking red dot vanished as he was suddenly aware that they were very much on top of the boy. This was his chance to let Charlie know that they were able to follow him somehow, and so he yelled out, [color="LightBlue"]"The signal is right up ahead, Charlie must be located there, Charlie! Can you hear us! I have come with Fredrick and Baptista!"[/color] he said turning the corner, his Vesari eyes seeing Charlie at the end of a dark and vastly worn hallway. As he turned the corner quickly, he felt the earth beneath him shift ever so slightly, causing him to naturally slow in a fear that he could neither define at that moment, nor deny in instinctive will.
In this dim lighting, with so great a distance, it would be impossible for anyone to tell Charlie's current form, but unless he took the opportunity to run once again, that situation wouldn't remain... of course... why had he suddenly frozen? What was this nagging feeling telling him to stay back? He whispered 'stop' just beneath his breath but couldn't exactly understand why... but his stomach told him that something wasn't right.
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Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part III
After receiving Punja's message. Baptista agreed that he should be watching the entrance, in case he would try to flee the same way he came. Baptista did seem his usual self and simply pointed his cross/cane in the direction of the sewers. He also said to Fredrick.[color="LightBlue"] " My dear friend, this time, we cannot afford to fail. Charles himself would be in uproar if he knew, and we cannot let the sole heir die."
[/color]
After this was said, Fredrick followed Vivian into the ruins. He was fascinated by the old architecture. He took care not to shout, but it was clear that he was beginning to fear for the situation. It was during this time Punja called, looking extremely busy even by her standards.
[color="LightBlue"]" Fredrick, I've just gotten a read on Charlie's vitals. He has altered significantly. Once you and Vivian find him, I will recall Baptista on an emergency trip, I got several important development updates I can use this excuse on, but something worries me about him. Well, more than usual at any rate. Remember that rate of execution he was going to tone down? Well, he succeeded, but he kept staring at one of the thousands of crosses inside the holy imperial wing before making the final decision to hand him over to my research or not. Speaking of that, it's not the first time he has frozen in thought like that in recent times."[/color]
Punja looked to both sides.
Punja: [color="LightBlue"]<_<......... >_>...... Who knows, he has probably gotten senile.
[/color]
Fredrick, at this time, was breathing quite heavily even by these standards. Sweat was quite apparent on his forehead. He replied, not regaining hos composure completely by telling Punja this. [color="LightBlue"]" I know a good part of Baptista the fools in the Imperial wing seems to have forgotten about. No one has suffered any more than him! This is the man who took me in when I had nothing, when I was nothing. His only demand was that I would try to do the right thing, and try with all my heart. I owe him a dept greater than I can ever repay, and, despite his current shortcomings, I will see his state of mind... no... his sanity return."
[/color]
Punja nodded. [color="LightBlue"]" Well, at any rate. I will keep you updated on the visors. Good news is Charlie has run into a dead end, bad news is that the structural integrity there is very, very weak. You can raise your voice, but thread lightly. If one of these stones fall, they might all fall. Then you, Vivian, and Charlie would be no more. Please, don't leave me alone in the world with Baptista, I got limited company demands, him, science experiments, people I can blackmail, that's you Vivian and a person who can actually make something good out of something really bad. That's you Fredrick...... 'sights' He is inside there, give him a warning you are coming won't you?"[/color]
Baptista looked before the rather narrow passage. He shouted the following. [color="LightBlue"]" Charlie!!! It's Fredrick. I just want to talk!"[/color]
*An echo could be heard later*
[color="LightBlue"]"Go away! I hate you all!"[/color]
Fredrick sadly seemed to take these words personally. He already had tears in his eyes. He whispered too himself. [color="LightBlue"]" With all my heart....."
[/color]
He turned to look directly at Vivian. [color="LightBlue"]" When this is all over, I'd like to take a vacation from diplomacy. It all turned out to be rather stressing compared to what I imagined."[/color]
At this point, Charlie extended his hand towards Vivian. [color="LightBlue"]" I thank you, you've been a source of inspiration and courage for an old man like me. We go after him together, but I have one thing that will calm Charlie down, I must give this to him once we see him."[/color]
*Going through the long and narrow passage, a glimmer of light could be seen near the end. Here, the shape of Charlie could be seen, half of his body was pretty mutated, he had even grown a tail, what little hospital clothing he had worn seemed ruined, and he was afraid.*
Charlie: [color="LightBlue"]G.... go away Fredrick.... There is nothing you can do now.... There is nothing you should do.....[/color]
At this point, Fredrick released Vivan, stepped forward, and took light, gentle steps towards Charlie. His lips were quivering at this point, and he ignored all his own tears while advancing. [color="LightBlue"]" Charlie... You are loved, why can't you see that? I made a promise to your father, that I would see you have the best heart any man ever had. I made a promise to your mentor, that I would do the right thing, with all my heart...... I have not a single doubt, be it spiritual or rational, that aiding you is the right thing to do."[/color]
Charlie, isolated in the corner had been crying for some time. This statement made him hold around his tummy, as it was something his heart itself could feel.
Fredrick approached now with light steps. [color="LightBlue"]" You remember when you first got introduced to your father? All those years when that first terrible war had ended? When you first spoke with him, he said that you were lacking in both structure and walked with no sense of pride..... When you left, he told me that he had never seen a more promising young boy. He had broken down in tears, only once before this had I seen anything similar. Your father kept you at arms length because he wanted you to be the one to save humanity. It has torn a great hole in his heart doing this, because he believes it will make you stronger. I know you are strong Charlie, just like your father. I do not know of a single parent that has placed so much care for his child, and yet, been hurt so badly in doing what he thought was the right thing."[/color]
Fredrick held out a small amulet of some type. One that contained the picture of a young woman. [color="LightBlue"]" Your mother told me with her dying breath after giving birth to you, that you were the only light of the world in these dark, chaotic times. You are the light Charlie... You are our light."
[/color]
At this point Charlie wept badly. He stood up, and ran towards Fredrick, hugging him close. But he was careless and one of the stones of the nearby pillars collapsed. Fredrick turned to Vivian with despair in his eyes, and pushed Charlie his way. [color="LightBlue"]" Quick! GO FOR THE EXIT! NOW!"
[/color]
At this point, while running out. Vivian was hit by a rock that made a clear mark on his shoulder, but he was able to get out with the heir just fine. Fredrick was not a fast runner, not by any sense, but he was close to the exit, and it would be close call. At the very last step before the hole in the wall, he feel, his upper half sticking outside of the hole, his other half crushed beneath the falling debris.
[color="LightBlue"]"GAAaaaaahhaaaaaaaaaiiiiiiiinnnggggggggg"[/color] He cried out with a a fading, agonizing scream. He had been holding his cross the entire time while running, and, with what little power he had left, he clenched too it. For a few seconds, he could do nothing else, but, with what little power he had left, he managed to turn his head up to look at Charlie and Vivian. He was no longer crying, in fact, he looked happy.
[color="LightBlue"]".... My....... It seems that indeed I was meant to be trapped between a rock and a hard place."[/color]
With the lightest voice he had, he chuckled after saying this, blood was pouring out of his mouth at this point, but it seemed to make no difference.
[color="LightBlue"]" Charlie, you are the light of this world. Our light, sacred in every shape, way and form. Your father loves you deeply, never doubt this for a second. He has always been watching over you. Since you were born, he has always spends hours of his day praying for you. When you were young and he was in war, he always asked for me to tell me how his son was doing, and what had to be done should he fall. When he returned, he was in tears over how proud he was of you. The perfect human he called you, for you were the only one he knew that had the potential to overcome his every wrongs, and make the world right in the process..... You've not changed a bit Charlie...... You're place is as rooted in my heart as ever."[/color]
At this point, Charlie was clinging to Vivian, and he could not bare to look Vivian directly in the eye, but Fredrick sure could look directly at Vivian, he did, and smiled.
[color="LightBlue"]" Vivian, you encompass everything I thought was good and wholesome in this world of hurt. You've always been there to help. I fear, that my vacation, which I wanted to invite you to will be postponed..... It would have been great. Good weather, nice, calm waves..... A simple life... just for a week....."[/color]
Tears were streaming down the face of Fredrick at this moment. [color="LightBlue"]" I always thought that when God made the ocean, it was from his tears of the future. All the horrors it would have for us. Baptista was the one who gave me the idea years back before the great war. My son, Wilheim..... he will be so sad.... You must tell him, at my funeral..... that I will be waiting for him in heaven......"[/color]
Fredrick coughed blood at this point, but smiled and said looked up, he could no longer make out the silhouettes that formed Vivian and Charlie, but he knew they were there.
[color="LightBlue"]" Baptista gave me that idea....... That the oceans are the tears of God...... He taught me the song..... This water is made from hope and dreams... these rivers... filled with with joy and glee..... these clouds.... filled with tears of joy.... and our world...."[/color]
[/color]
After this was said, Fredrick followed Vivian into the ruins. He was fascinated by the old architecture. He took care not to shout, but it was clear that he was beginning to fear for the situation. It was during this time Punja called, looking extremely busy even by her standards.
[color="LightBlue"]" Fredrick, I've just gotten a read on Charlie's vitals. He has altered significantly. Once you and Vivian find him, I will recall Baptista on an emergency trip, I got several important development updates I can use this excuse on, but something worries me about him. Well, more than usual at any rate. Remember that rate of execution he was going to tone down? Well, he succeeded, but he kept staring at one of the thousands of crosses inside the holy imperial wing before making the final decision to hand him over to my research or not. Speaking of that, it's not the first time he has frozen in thought like that in recent times."[/color]
Punja looked to both sides.
Punja: [color="LightBlue"]<_<......... >_>...... Who knows, he has probably gotten senile.
[/color]
Fredrick, at this time, was breathing quite heavily even by these standards. Sweat was quite apparent on his forehead. He replied, not regaining hos composure completely by telling Punja this. [color="LightBlue"]" I know a good part of Baptista the fools in the Imperial wing seems to have forgotten about. No one has suffered any more than him! This is the man who took me in when I had nothing, when I was nothing. His only demand was that I would try to do the right thing, and try with all my heart. I owe him a dept greater than I can ever repay, and, despite his current shortcomings, I will see his state of mind... no... his sanity return."
[/color]
Punja nodded. [color="LightBlue"]" Well, at any rate. I will keep you updated on the visors. Good news is Charlie has run into a dead end, bad news is that the structural integrity there is very, very weak. You can raise your voice, but thread lightly. If one of these stones fall, they might all fall. Then you, Vivian, and Charlie would be no more. Please, don't leave me alone in the world with Baptista, I got limited company demands, him, science experiments, people I can blackmail, that's you Vivian and a person who can actually make something good out of something really bad. That's you Fredrick...... 'sights' He is inside there, give him a warning you are coming won't you?"[/color]
Baptista looked before the rather narrow passage. He shouted the following. [color="LightBlue"]" Charlie!!! It's Fredrick. I just want to talk!"[/color]
*An echo could be heard later*
[color="LightBlue"]"Go away! I hate you all!"[/color]
Fredrick sadly seemed to take these words personally. He already had tears in his eyes. He whispered too himself. [color="LightBlue"]" With all my heart....."
[/color]
He turned to look directly at Vivian. [color="LightBlue"]" When this is all over, I'd like to take a vacation from diplomacy. It all turned out to be rather stressing compared to what I imagined."[/color]
At this point, Charlie extended his hand towards Vivian. [color="LightBlue"]" I thank you, you've been a source of inspiration and courage for an old man like me. We go after him together, but I have one thing that will calm Charlie down, I must give this to him once we see him."[/color]
*Going through the long and narrow passage, a glimmer of light could be seen near the end. Here, the shape of Charlie could be seen, half of his body was pretty mutated, he had even grown a tail, what little hospital clothing he had worn seemed ruined, and he was afraid.*
Charlie: [color="LightBlue"]G.... go away Fredrick.... There is nothing you can do now.... There is nothing you should do.....[/color]
At this point, Fredrick released Vivan, stepped forward, and took light, gentle steps towards Charlie. His lips were quivering at this point, and he ignored all his own tears while advancing. [color="LightBlue"]" Charlie... You are loved, why can't you see that? I made a promise to your father, that I would see you have the best heart any man ever had. I made a promise to your mentor, that I would do the right thing, with all my heart...... I have not a single doubt, be it spiritual or rational, that aiding you is the right thing to do."[/color]
Charlie, isolated in the corner had been crying for some time. This statement made him hold around his tummy, as it was something his heart itself could feel.
Fredrick approached now with light steps. [color="LightBlue"]" You remember when you first got introduced to your father? All those years when that first terrible war had ended? When you first spoke with him, he said that you were lacking in both structure and walked with no sense of pride..... When you left, he told me that he had never seen a more promising young boy. He had broken down in tears, only once before this had I seen anything similar. Your father kept you at arms length because he wanted you to be the one to save humanity. It has torn a great hole in his heart doing this, because he believes it will make you stronger. I know you are strong Charlie, just like your father. I do not know of a single parent that has placed so much care for his child, and yet, been hurt so badly in doing what he thought was the right thing."[/color]
Fredrick held out a small amulet of some type. One that contained the picture of a young woman. [color="LightBlue"]" Your mother told me with her dying breath after giving birth to you, that you were the only light of the world in these dark, chaotic times. You are the light Charlie... You are our light."
[/color]
At this point Charlie wept badly. He stood up, and ran towards Fredrick, hugging him close. But he was careless and one of the stones of the nearby pillars collapsed. Fredrick turned to Vivian with despair in his eyes, and pushed Charlie his way. [color="LightBlue"]" Quick! GO FOR THE EXIT! NOW!"
[/color]
At this point, while running out. Vivian was hit by a rock that made a clear mark on his shoulder, but he was able to get out with the heir just fine. Fredrick was not a fast runner, not by any sense, but he was close to the exit, and it would be close call. At the very last step before the hole in the wall, he feel, his upper half sticking outside of the hole, his other half crushed beneath the falling debris.
[color="LightBlue"]"GAAaaaaahhaaaaaaaaaiiiiiiiinnnggggggggg"[/color] He cried out with a a fading, agonizing scream. He had been holding his cross the entire time while running, and, with what little power he had left, he clenched too it. For a few seconds, he could do nothing else, but, with what little power he had left, he managed to turn his head up to look at Charlie and Vivian. He was no longer crying, in fact, he looked happy.
[color="LightBlue"]".... My....... It seems that indeed I was meant to be trapped between a rock and a hard place."[/color]
With the lightest voice he had, he chuckled after saying this, blood was pouring out of his mouth at this point, but it seemed to make no difference.
[color="LightBlue"]" Charlie, you are the light of this world. Our light, sacred in every shape, way and form. Your father loves you deeply, never doubt this for a second. He has always been watching over you. Since you were born, he has always spends hours of his day praying for you. When you were young and he was in war, he always asked for me to tell me how his son was doing, and what had to be done should he fall. When he returned, he was in tears over how proud he was of you. The perfect human he called you, for you were the only one he knew that had the potential to overcome his every wrongs, and make the world right in the process..... You've not changed a bit Charlie...... You're place is as rooted in my heart as ever."[/color]
At this point, Charlie was clinging to Vivian, and he could not bare to look Vivian directly in the eye, but Fredrick sure could look directly at Vivian, he did, and smiled.
[color="LightBlue"]" Vivian, you encompass everything I thought was good and wholesome in this world of hurt. You've always been there to help. I fear, that my vacation, which I wanted to invite you to will be postponed..... It would have been great. Good weather, nice, calm waves..... A simple life... just for a week....."[/color]
Tears were streaming down the face of Fredrick at this moment. [color="LightBlue"]" I always thought that when God made the ocean, it was from his tears of the future. All the horrors it would have for us. Baptista was the one who gave me the idea years back before the great war. My son, Wilheim..... he will be so sad.... You must tell him, at my funeral..... that I will be waiting for him in heaven......"[/color]
Fredrick coughed blood at this point, but smiled and said looked up, he could no longer make out the silhouettes that formed Vivian and Charlie, but he knew they were there.
[color="LightBlue"]" Baptista gave me that idea....... That the oceans are the tears of God...... He taught me the song..... This water is made from hope and dreams... these rivers... filled with with joy and glee..... these clouds.... filled with tears of joy.... and our world...."[/color]
-
Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part IV
*** At this moment, Vivian could feel something sharp flying just past his ears, spilling a single drop of blood, upon noticing this, he saw that a blade has flown past him, straight into the throat of Fredrick who died instantly.***
???: [color="LightBlue"]I've always hated that song.......
[/color]
'On the far end of the walkway, a silhouette with two long blades could be seen. He held them out at first, but placed them in a single move making them form a cross. In a rapid move, he picked up a bible, threw it in the air, threw some nails at it, and the halls themselves were filled with pages of the bible. Glowing in gold, and illuminating the entire hallway. Baptista was standing on the other side, smiling quite satisfied at this moment.
[color="LightBlue"]
" The charge of treason warrants only one penalty.... death! By the steel of the baptized blades! You are now sentenced, judged, and executed! May the lord have mercy on your soul!"[/color]
He was approaching slowly, his blades seethed in his long sleeves during this point. He smiled, and his eyes were even closed, he was that confident in what he was doing. [color="LightBlue"]" Dear me..... It seems like the emperors son became an abomination..... I told you boy, that if something like that happened to anyone you knew or even yourself, that there was only one way to save what little of you remained, but, you were always the coward. Sitting on your high horse while the world BURNED under your feet! Fredrick was also a fool, he never should have betrayed me....... Restoring sanity, as if he had ever even seen anything! I must admit, that old crow did know how to annoy me to no end. Now he is gone... forever."[/color]
Baptista then looked up at Vivian. [color="LightBlue"]" And you..... corrupting the heir? How could you? * a daunting chuckle could be heard.* Ahh, my dear friend, you have no idea how much you have done for me this time. Vivian, you remind me of when I was young and stupid. Only being able to look at the carrot right in front of your face...."[/color]
Baptista let out a very loud laughter, of the likes he had never done before. [color="LightBlue"]" By God, this is a sign! My prophecy was correct! Our enemies now approach, and the lands shall be filled with death! The earth shall be reborn a new! Let me show you the truth I call DESPAIR!"[/color]
*After having said that, a daunting set of screams could be heard echoing from the tunnels. It filled the air with dread. The stench of dried blood could be smelled and an aura of uncertainty could be felt. The walls seemed painted with crude blood paintings of men in red robes that would fully cover their face. A daunting hymn could be heard coming from them.*
Baptista picked up one of his blades and pointed it directly at Charlie. [color="LightBlue"]" Vivian, my dear friend. My quarrel is not with you, but the heir has to die. By the authority bestowed upon me by the holy church and imperial head, I am obligated to kill a high traitor wherever and whenever he might be found dammed the consequences of it be."[/color]
Baptista had a pretty sharp smile as he readied his blade. [color="LightBlue"]" Step aside boy, or perhaps, you would like to humor an old man?"[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]I've always hated that song.......
[/color]
'On the far end of the walkway, a silhouette with two long blades could be seen. He held them out at first, but placed them in a single move making them form a cross. In a rapid move, he picked up a bible, threw it in the air, threw some nails at it, and the halls themselves were filled with pages of the bible. Glowing in gold, and illuminating the entire hallway. Baptista was standing on the other side, smiling quite satisfied at this moment.
[color="LightBlue"]
" The charge of treason warrants only one penalty.... death! By the steel of the baptized blades! You are now sentenced, judged, and executed! May the lord have mercy on your soul!"[/color]
He was approaching slowly, his blades seethed in his long sleeves during this point. He smiled, and his eyes were even closed, he was that confident in what he was doing. [color="LightBlue"]" Dear me..... It seems like the emperors son became an abomination..... I told you boy, that if something like that happened to anyone you knew or even yourself, that there was only one way to save what little of you remained, but, you were always the coward. Sitting on your high horse while the world BURNED under your feet! Fredrick was also a fool, he never should have betrayed me....... Restoring sanity, as if he had ever even seen anything! I must admit, that old crow did know how to annoy me to no end. Now he is gone... forever."[/color]
Baptista then looked up at Vivian. [color="LightBlue"]" And you..... corrupting the heir? How could you? * a daunting chuckle could be heard.* Ahh, my dear friend, you have no idea how much you have done for me this time. Vivian, you remind me of when I was young and stupid. Only being able to look at the carrot right in front of your face...."[/color]
Baptista let out a very loud laughter, of the likes he had never done before. [color="LightBlue"]" By God, this is a sign! My prophecy was correct! Our enemies now approach, and the lands shall be filled with death! The earth shall be reborn a new! Let me show you the truth I call DESPAIR!"[/color]
*After having said that, a daunting set of screams could be heard echoing from the tunnels. It filled the air with dread. The stench of dried blood could be smelled and an aura of uncertainty could be felt. The walls seemed painted with crude blood paintings of men in red robes that would fully cover their face. A daunting hymn could be heard coming from them.*
Baptista picked up one of his blades and pointed it directly at Charlie. [color="LightBlue"]" Vivian, my dear friend. My quarrel is not with you, but the heir has to die. By the authority bestowed upon me by the holy church and imperial head, I am obligated to kill a high traitor wherever and whenever he might be found dammed the consequences of it be."[/color]
Baptista had a pretty sharp smile as he readied his blade. [color="LightBlue"]" Step aside boy, or perhaps, you would like to humor an old man?"[/color]
-
Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part V
[color="LightBlue"]"And you've always reminded me of chaos yourself, Baptista. Your action here is in violation of ZODEAC law, you are on our land, you follow our laws - we will not grant diplomatic immunity to one responsible for pre-meditated murder."[/color] Vivian spoke, but it was obvious his words had no effect, it was obvious they wouldn't - so he took this time and absorbed the room in full, his ears read every sound, every creature and his eyes acquired every detail [color="LightBlue"]"Of course, that never was the point, was it Baptista, otherwise my escorts would already have placed you under arrest for my safety and the safety of Charlie, meaning that you already came here with intent to kill, meaning that you have already committed attempted murder."[/color] Vivian lifted his Com device up to show that it read 'no signal', [color="LightBlue"]"Meaning that you came here to kill the heir and then me."[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"I have to admit, you're rather thorough, I came here unarmed and without a COM device, there would be no physical means that a Hume could possibly communicate their situation or predicament. But you're not facing Hume, and the large crash and jamming signal alone would be enough to alert the forces that were approaching here to aid in our search."[/color] In less then a moment, Vivian let out a loud ear-splitting howl, his ears peeling back, but his throat clearly guarded by his under-jacket. In the enclosed room, the sound would be ear-splitting to the average Hume ear. The cry for help echoed again and again against the dull chatter of frightened rodents and scurrying insects... but then it returned a hundred-fold from a now rapidly approaching army whose large keen ears picked up Vivian's plee. This army needed no map or tracking beacon, as Vivian's scent alone was as apparent an indicator as any tracking beacon, and they could move quickly on silent feet to their target, communicating to one another via a form of sign-language. The only fore-warning of their approach came from the rats that began to scurry from the entry-way in fear.
[color="LightBlue"]"They will be here in seconds, they will check for traps, treat the wounded and you had better pray to your false god that they are able to save them. You can either choose to run, or I will be more then sufficient to fend you off until my friends arrive, at which point you will be arrested and tried in a court of law for your offenses."[/color]
With this, Vivian took off his jacket and prepared himself for a fight, then as he dashed towards Baptista with lightning speed, teeth bared, he threw the jacket at Charlie which suddenly disappeared - heir and all. Now that the boy was invisible (and hence almost impossible to attack directly), Vivian screamed [color="LightBlue"]"RUN!"[/color], but he kept his eyes ever vigilant on his potential opponent. He had no intentions of fighting this out to a victory, he was already injured from the last experience and the pain was quite severe, he simply desired to hold back Baptista and if possible, get past him. If he could do this, Baptista would never be able to keep up with a Vesari and the mutated Hume Youth... So he could run until he met up with the protection of backup, or found a hidden path, of which he remembered suspecting several on the way here. But he hadn't explored the ruins in a couple of years - so he might be a bit rusty.
If he could escape deeper into the tunnels, there would have to be another way out of here through one of the old libraries or other buildings. That might take some time; but there would be no way that Baptista could follow them once inside and he would quickly be over-taken by the armed guards who would track his scent with ease - why did all old men have to smell like pee? Of course, Vivian thought to himself, after this, depending on how close those blades got, he might smell like pee too ^_^! It was a good thing he took care of other business before he came down here.
[color="LightBlue"]"I have to admit, you're rather thorough, I came here unarmed and without a COM device, there would be no physical means that a Hume could possibly communicate their situation or predicament. But you're not facing Hume, and the large crash and jamming signal alone would be enough to alert the forces that were approaching here to aid in our search."[/color] In less then a moment, Vivian let out a loud ear-splitting howl, his ears peeling back, but his throat clearly guarded by his under-jacket. In the enclosed room, the sound would be ear-splitting to the average Hume ear. The cry for help echoed again and again against the dull chatter of frightened rodents and scurrying insects... but then it returned a hundred-fold from a now rapidly approaching army whose large keen ears picked up Vivian's plee. This army needed no map or tracking beacon, as Vivian's scent alone was as apparent an indicator as any tracking beacon, and they could move quickly on silent feet to their target, communicating to one another via a form of sign-language. The only fore-warning of their approach came from the rats that began to scurry from the entry-way in fear.
[color="LightBlue"]"They will be here in seconds, they will check for traps, treat the wounded and you had better pray to your false god that they are able to save them. You can either choose to run, or I will be more then sufficient to fend you off until my friends arrive, at which point you will be arrested and tried in a court of law for your offenses."[/color]
With this, Vivian took off his jacket and prepared himself for a fight, then as he dashed towards Baptista with lightning speed, teeth bared, he threw the jacket at Charlie which suddenly disappeared - heir and all. Now that the boy was invisible (and hence almost impossible to attack directly), Vivian screamed [color="LightBlue"]"RUN!"[/color], but he kept his eyes ever vigilant on his potential opponent. He had no intentions of fighting this out to a victory, he was already injured from the last experience and the pain was quite severe, he simply desired to hold back Baptista and if possible, get past him. If he could do this, Baptista would never be able to keep up with a Vesari and the mutated Hume Youth... So he could run until he met up with the protection of backup, or found a hidden path, of which he remembered suspecting several on the way here. But he hadn't explored the ruins in a couple of years - so he might be a bit rusty.
If he could escape deeper into the tunnels, there would have to be another way out of here through one of the old libraries or other buildings. That might take some time; but there would be no way that Baptista could follow them once inside and he would quickly be over-taken by the armed guards who would track his scent with ease - why did all old men have to smell like pee? Of course, Vivian thought to himself, after this, depending on how close those blades got, he might smell like pee too ^_^! It was a good thing he took care of other business before he came down here.
-
Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part VI
*As Vivian dashed towards Baptista, the entire background got red. His head suddenly hurt extremely. Mind-cripplingly and it was no different for Charlie. It was as if the proximity towards Baptista, got ever more painful the more one tried to get towards him or the more one would get away from him. It would be enough to shatter the sanity of an entire army. The eyes grew heavy...... It was as if the mind was working against the body. A moment of utter darkness ensured, and the screams of humans being consumed by chaos itself could be heard.*
Once his eyes were open, he could see a dusty, old library. With a golden ray of light shining over the head of a young boy reading a book. There was another young neko-jin nearby who was on a much higher shelf looking over him.
???: [color="LightBlue"]Why do you keep reading the same book over and over again? I am bored, reading is bad for your eyes you know.
[/color]
The boy turned upwards to look at the neko jin who said that.[color="LightBlue"] " I am sorry, very sorry. It is just that...... it radiates a good message, and it calms me in a way."[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]Bookworm! You bookworm! I bet you can't catch me![/color]
'A book was thrown at the young boy, who managed to block it, laughed, and tried to climb up the bookshelf after said neko-jin. However, he slid on one of the shelves and fell down, hurting his back. Upon seeing this, the neko jin rushed down to him, holding around him, saying the following.'
[color="LightBlue"]" Owchies... are you hurt Baptista?"[/color]
Baptista laughed, held around her and hugged her close. [color="LightBlue"]" No, I am not my dear fuzzy friend. I am sorry if I bore you, but I think there is a lot I must do, the world seem to be changing quickly, and I don't think the future will be kind."[/color]
The neko jin then sat besides him in the corner as they looked at the illuminated rays shining through the old stained windows. The young neko jin seemed amazed.
[color="LightBlue"]
"Woooaaaah, what do they call those lights?"[/color]
Baptista smiled. [color="LightBlue"]" Volumetric lights.... But I like to call them godrays. They remind me of some of the good things of the world."[/color]
The neko jin stood up and walked into the light. [color="LightBlue"]" Haha! The godrays shine over me noaw! Hey, let's make a wish, in remembering this golden color!"[/color]
Baptista smiled, put his hands togehter, and prayed. It all faded to white during this moment.
The white then faded away, and this time the scenery was completely changed. It was a beautiful, peaceful scenery, near a fine monastery. Here, a man in his 30's held his bible before what seemed to be an even younger man of poor health. Vivian was also in the scene, but the others nearby did not register him. It was as if he did not exist, yet he could observe all that went on.
Baptista's regular voice could be heard behind Vivian.
[color="LightBlue"]"Observe. This is me and Fredrick 40 years ago."[/color]
Younger Baptista: [color="LightBlue"]And so he said, yes, I am with you, until the very end of time.[/color]
Fredrick: [color="LightBlue"]Baptista.... I must ask you. What caused you to show such a wonderful kindness towards all the 40 men, women and children you sheltered. If it was not for you, we would all be dead.[/color]
The younger Baptista laughed and held his hand upon Fredrick's head. " Love Fredrick, it was nothing more than love. I saw a good opportunity to work for others than myself. I seem to have gotten quite the sizable family in doing so. I see love to be hard work as the same sometimes. It's not easy to do, but it rewards you tenfold".
Fredrick smiled and sat down on some rocks near a lake.[color="LightBlue"] " Your wife is doing quite good being 6 months into labor..... What a woman she is, I am not sure if you could have found someone with a purer heart, and she I am certain she is the most beautiful woman in Europe."[/color]
Baptista sat besides Fredrick. [color="LightBlue"]" I cannot say how much I agree. She has sadly tried to overwork herself these past months, it is hard to keep her from trying to do some charitable things every now and then, but, somehow I feel that it is just right to allow her a bit of freedom every now and then."[/color]
'A man dressed in a white uniform came walked towards Baptista. He was a fairly tall and slender person.'
???: [color="LightBlue"]Are you Baptista?[/color]
Baptista looked at him. [color="LightBlue"]" Why.... yes... how can I help you?"[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]You are being re-summoned into the labs.... War has just broke out.[/color]
Baptista looked horrified. [color="LightBlue"]"Another wave of Chaos..... No..... No, I can't do it. I was promised to be left alone after last time around, and now, I've done more than pay my due."[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]But your dept is still massive, and I need not mention what will happen to your loved ones should you refuse.[/color]
'It all faded back to white, and once this light was faded, one could see a somewhat older Baptista working in a lab coat near a few tubes. It was all very peaceful. The person from earlier just entered the room.'
???:[color="LightBlue"] I got a surprise for you, for all of your hard work......[/color]
Baptista sighted. [color="LightBlue"]" What is it now..... The war is over and this is my last day".[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]Consider it..... a repayment of sorts.[/color]
* A table was rolled on to the middle of the room. There was something large on it covered by a sheet, upon removing this, Baptista could see a dead woman lying in front of her, he broke down instantly, clinched his hands and stood inches from the wall. Smashing his head against it several times*
[color="LightBlue"]"NO NO NO!!!! NOOOOOOO!!!! YOU.... YOU ANIMALS! I DID WHAT I WAS TOLD!"[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]Indeed, and you exceeded our expectations. Our glorious primary lab-monkey. Responsible for the recent minor skirmish battles against chaos. More busy praying than producing what was required to save millions more. I have no empathy for you Baptista, and this warning, it is not even authorized by me. You have a friend above which wants to see you pushed against the wall, and producing far more, even participating in live combat testing. Your son and daughter has also been recruited into the armies, should you fail me, they will be put to the front lines. No front line survives against Chaos.[/color]
*Once again, all faded to white, and this time, there was a grand battlefield in view. Baptista, not too much younger from what he was now, stood besides Charles, above an empty canyon, with a large portion of the NHRE army behind him.*
Charles: [color="LightBlue"]This will be our last stand.[/color]
Baptista: [color="LightBlue"].........[/color]
Charles looked at Baptista and held out his hand. [color="LightBlue"]"It has been an honor working with you."[/color]
Baptista did not shake it, but simply looked over the horizon.
Charles looked forward and held his weapon. [color="LightBlue"]"Baptista, we must win this battle, if we loose, mankind is doomed."[/color]
Baptista: [color="LightBlue"].......[/color]
Once his eyes were open, he could see a dusty, old library. With a golden ray of light shining over the head of a young boy reading a book. There was another young neko-jin nearby who was on a much higher shelf looking over him.
???: [color="LightBlue"]Why do you keep reading the same book over and over again? I am bored, reading is bad for your eyes you know.
[/color]
The boy turned upwards to look at the neko jin who said that.[color="LightBlue"] " I am sorry, very sorry. It is just that...... it radiates a good message, and it calms me in a way."[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]Bookworm! You bookworm! I bet you can't catch me![/color]
'A book was thrown at the young boy, who managed to block it, laughed, and tried to climb up the bookshelf after said neko-jin. However, he slid on one of the shelves and fell down, hurting his back. Upon seeing this, the neko jin rushed down to him, holding around him, saying the following.'
[color="LightBlue"]" Owchies... are you hurt Baptista?"[/color]
Baptista laughed, held around her and hugged her close. [color="LightBlue"]" No, I am not my dear fuzzy friend. I am sorry if I bore you, but I think there is a lot I must do, the world seem to be changing quickly, and I don't think the future will be kind."[/color]
The neko jin then sat besides him in the corner as they looked at the illuminated rays shining through the old stained windows. The young neko jin seemed amazed.
[color="LightBlue"]
"Woooaaaah, what do they call those lights?"[/color]
Baptista smiled. [color="LightBlue"]" Volumetric lights.... But I like to call them godrays. They remind me of some of the good things of the world."[/color]
The neko jin stood up and walked into the light. [color="LightBlue"]" Haha! The godrays shine over me noaw! Hey, let's make a wish, in remembering this golden color!"[/color]
Baptista smiled, put his hands togehter, and prayed. It all faded to white during this moment.
The white then faded away, and this time the scenery was completely changed. It was a beautiful, peaceful scenery, near a fine monastery. Here, a man in his 30's held his bible before what seemed to be an even younger man of poor health. Vivian was also in the scene, but the others nearby did not register him. It was as if he did not exist, yet he could observe all that went on.
Baptista's regular voice could be heard behind Vivian.
[color="LightBlue"]"Observe. This is me and Fredrick 40 years ago."[/color]
Younger Baptista: [color="LightBlue"]And so he said, yes, I am with you, until the very end of time.[/color]
Fredrick: [color="LightBlue"]Baptista.... I must ask you. What caused you to show such a wonderful kindness towards all the 40 men, women and children you sheltered. If it was not for you, we would all be dead.[/color]
The younger Baptista laughed and held his hand upon Fredrick's head. " Love Fredrick, it was nothing more than love. I saw a good opportunity to work for others than myself. I seem to have gotten quite the sizable family in doing so. I see love to be hard work as the same sometimes. It's not easy to do, but it rewards you tenfold".
Fredrick smiled and sat down on some rocks near a lake.[color="LightBlue"] " Your wife is doing quite good being 6 months into labor..... What a woman she is, I am not sure if you could have found someone with a purer heart, and she I am certain she is the most beautiful woman in Europe."[/color]
Baptista sat besides Fredrick. [color="LightBlue"]" I cannot say how much I agree. She has sadly tried to overwork herself these past months, it is hard to keep her from trying to do some charitable things every now and then, but, somehow I feel that it is just right to allow her a bit of freedom every now and then."[/color]
'A man dressed in a white uniform came walked towards Baptista. He was a fairly tall and slender person.'
???: [color="LightBlue"]Are you Baptista?[/color]
Baptista looked at him. [color="LightBlue"]" Why.... yes... how can I help you?"[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]You are being re-summoned into the labs.... War has just broke out.[/color]
Baptista looked horrified. [color="LightBlue"]"Another wave of Chaos..... No..... No, I can't do it. I was promised to be left alone after last time around, and now, I've done more than pay my due."[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]But your dept is still massive, and I need not mention what will happen to your loved ones should you refuse.[/color]
'It all faded back to white, and once this light was faded, one could see a somewhat older Baptista working in a lab coat near a few tubes. It was all very peaceful. The person from earlier just entered the room.'
???:[color="LightBlue"] I got a surprise for you, for all of your hard work......[/color]
Baptista sighted. [color="LightBlue"]" What is it now..... The war is over and this is my last day".[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]Consider it..... a repayment of sorts.[/color]
* A table was rolled on to the middle of the room. There was something large on it covered by a sheet, upon removing this, Baptista could see a dead woman lying in front of her, he broke down instantly, clinched his hands and stood inches from the wall. Smashing his head against it several times*
[color="LightBlue"]"NO NO NO!!!! NOOOOOOO!!!! YOU.... YOU ANIMALS! I DID WHAT I WAS TOLD!"[/color]
???: [color="LightBlue"]Indeed, and you exceeded our expectations. Our glorious primary lab-monkey. Responsible for the recent minor skirmish battles against chaos. More busy praying than producing what was required to save millions more. I have no empathy for you Baptista, and this warning, it is not even authorized by me. You have a friend above which wants to see you pushed against the wall, and producing far more, even participating in live combat testing. Your son and daughter has also been recruited into the armies, should you fail me, they will be put to the front lines. No front line survives against Chaos.[/color]
*Once again, all faded to white, and this time, there was a grand battlefield in view. Baptista, not too much younger from what he was now, stood besides Charles, above an empty canyon, with a large portion of the NHRE army behind him.*
Charles: [color="LightBlue"]This will be our last stand.[/color]
Baptista: [color="LightBlue"].........[/color]
Charles looked at Baptista and held out his hand. [color="LightBlue"]"It has been an honor working with you."[/color]
Baptista did not shake it, but simply looked over the horizon.
Charles looked forward and held his weapon. [color="LightBlue"]"Baptista, we must win this battle, if we loose, mankind is doomed."[/color]
Baptista: [color="LightBlue"].......[/color]
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Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part VII
'In front of them, wast hordes of chaos could be seen. Charles gave the order to fire, but it was to no avail. Charles, and the entire NHRE army was overrun. However, for one reason or another, Baptista was unaffected by this great fog of war that consumed all around him. He simply walked towards what seemed to be a faint, red light in the center. Upon approaching it, a huge beast of chaos was revealed. Baptista did looked at it, but his emotions were cold. The beast let out a horrifying laughter, detailing the screams of so many it had consumed in the past. The following was said.'
[color="LightBlue"]" LAST GUARDIAN OF YOUR RACE! WILL YOU DO ANYTHING TO SEE ME VANQUISHED!?"[/color]
Baptista looked at it, spat on the ground and replied.
[color="LightBlue"]" I do."[/color]
'Right in front of Baptista was thrown the bodies of one young man and one young woman, exhausted from war. Baptista looked shocked as he saw them, he had only seen pictures of them, but they turned out to be his children. The laughter of the beast intensified before it said.'
[color="LightBlue"]" KILL THEM, AND YOU SHALL HAVE YOUR WILL BE DONE!"[/color]
*Baptista had dropped to his knees as he looked over his son and daughter, they were conscious enough to see him, but not to speak. Baptista stroked their chin, then.... their necks. He grabbed them, and held them firmly. As he did this, the fog of chaos gradually faded away, until it was gone, and before him, was his son and daughter, murdered, by his own hands. At this point, there seemed no longer to be any emotion. He walked back, not even focusing on the massive amount of fallen soldiers on the battlefield. There were a few still alive, some healthy enough to stand, among them, Charles Vicelin, who stood up and watched Baptista walk straight past him, into a glowing, golden volumetric light. Everything faded to black this time around, and it seemed to return to how things was just before it all was done*
*However, in returning back to reality, at this point beeing only a few feet from Baptista and moving at a high speed, Vivian could feel a blunt object strike him directly at his neck, knocking the air out and Charlie could likewise feel one hitting him directly at his knee, dislocating it. Above them, was Baptista, who at this point, once again, was smiling.*
[color="LightBlue"]"It is nice to meet you too Vivian."[/color] He said, before moving aside, behind him, was a floating figure of a half-completed machine. He smiled even more and said the following.
[color="LightBlue"]"This... would partially be my wife. Partially be the Nox Chaotica attached to my heart. I could not bury her, so I made her into man's greatest weapon."[/color]
Baptista then seemed to step away from Vivian, and moved towards Fredrick. Baptista was old, yet still quite strong. He managed, with the help of his cane, to pull the body from Fredrick out of the derbies he was trapped inside. He carried him, walked past were Vivian would be, and said the following.
[color="LightBlue"]
"If you do not mind, I would like to bury my old friend. After all, our traditions indicates he shall have a state funeral. He seemed to like you, so, consider yourself invited."[/color]
*Baptista then looked at Charlie, who was unconscious at this moment*
[color="LightBlue"]".... Come to think of it, he is more valuable to me alive than dead now. A suitable taste of medicine for my emperor. My dear friend, I would feel that it would be largely unfit for someone in my position to be tried in your courts. There is, but one court awaiting me. If you think death is what I fear, you would be horribly mistaken. Your folly is what I fear. I am still somewhat the person I used to be...... Somewhat. I've just understood that I am at war. This is quite possibly the last major war our world will have. It would be a shame if a selfish man ruined all the other people's chances would it not?"[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]" LAST GUARDIAN OF YOUR RACE! WILL YOU DO ANYTHING TO SEE ME VANQUISHED!?"[/color]
Baptista looked at it, spat on the ground and replied.
[color="LightBlue"]" I do."[/color]
'Right in front of Baptista was thrown the bodies of one young man and one young woman, exhausted from war. Baptista looked shocked as he saw them, he had only seen pictures of them, but they turned out to be his children. The laughter of the beast intensified before it said.'
[color="LightBlue"]" KILL THEM, AND YOU SHALL HAVE YOUR WILL BE DONE!"[/color]
*Baptista had dropped to his knees as he looked over his son and daughter, they were conscious enough to see him, but not to speak. Baptista stroked their chin, then.... their necks. He grabbed them, and held them firmly. As he did this, the fog of chaos gradually faded away, until it was gone, and before him, was his son and daughter, murdered, by his own hands. At this point, there seemed no longer to be any emotion. He walked back, not even focusing on the massive amount of fallen soldiers on the battlefield. There were a few still alive, some healthy enough to stand, among them, Charles Vicelin, who stood up and watched Baptista walk straight past him, into a glowing, golden volumetric light. Everything faded to black this time around, and it seemed to return to how things was just before it all was done*
*However, in returning back to reality, at this point beeing only a few feet from Baptista and moving at a high speed, Vivian could feel a blunt object strike him directly at his neck, knocking the air out and Charlie could likewise feel one hitting him directly at his knee, dislocating it. Above them, was Baptista, who at this point, once again, was smiling.*
[color="LightBlue"]"It is nice to meet you too Vivian."[/color] He said, before moving aside, behind him, was a floating figure of a half-completed machine. He smiled even more and said the following.
[color="LightBlue"]"This... would partially be my wife. Partially be the Nox Chaotica attached to my heart. I could not bury her, so I made her into man's greatest weapon."[/color]
Baptista then seemed to step away from Vivian, and moved towards Fredrick. Baptista was old, yet still quite strong. He managed, with the help of his cane, to pull the body from Fredrick out of the derbies he was trapped inside. He carried him, walked past were Vivian would be, and said the following.
[color="LightBlue"]
"If you do not mind, I would like to bury my old friend. After all, our traditions indicates he shall have a state funeral. He seemed to like you, so, consider yourself invited."[/color]
*Baptista then looked at Charlie, who was unconscious at this moment*
[color="LightBlue"]".... Come to think of it, he is more valuable to me alive than dead now. A suitable taste of medicine for my emperor. My dear friend, I would feel that it would be largely unfit for someone in my position to be tried in your courts. There is, but one court awaiting me. If you think death is what I fear, you would be horribly mistaken. Your folly is what I fear. I am still somewhat the person I used to be...... Somewhat. I've just understood that I am at war. This is quite possibly the last major war our world will have. It would be a shame if a selfish man ruined all the other people's chances would it not?"[/color]
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Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part VIII
As Baptista walked towards the opening in the wall, the COM device crackled to life.
[color="LightBlue"]"Vivian, this is the Lexya Valhalla, I'm detecting corrupted, chaos distortion fields and jamming frequencies. I've jammed all non-friendly outbound signals and re-established friendly signals via my ECM systems. What in the world is going on down there!"[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"Lexya, don't hit the corrupted, use the wide range EDF unit and neutralize the field now! But don't destroy the origin, only suppress it! It's Baptista!"[/color] Vivian yelled out.
TEMMII was designed as an anti-chaos unit, developed with world class field effect systems and detection software. Already notified in case her ECM system were necessary to override the local jamming mechanism, TEMMII would be aware of the presence of the field as soon as Baptista used it via the ECHO detection system.
Thus, it was little surprise when she was called upon to make use of the onboard EDF system to neutralize any distortion fields in the region. Essentially negating Baptista's final ace, she could even destroy the unit - which disconnected from it's primary Titan was merely human powered, and could do nothing against TEMMII's twin 90MWatt fusion power-plants. To be precise, if TEMMII had even so much as noticed any damaging field effects in the region of Baptista that could cause harm to the mental or physical stability of the units down there, the EDF could instantly be brought into play neutralizing the field before it could do any harm as soon as it happened via commands issued through the ENSI enhanced CHRONOS processor system. The field of course, would have no effect on Lexya, as such a small power source couldn't hope to influence the pilot thanks to the onboard warp bleedoff circuits. Even if the field wasn't a perfect 'match' to a chaos field as normally was used for causing people to go insane, the onboard MIKA computer with it's vast database and computational capabilities would easily be able to over-ride it's effects from such a low powered user.
Whether Baptista had tried to use his field on those outside of the region was unknown to all but Lexya, but if he felt they were no longer a threat, he would soon be in for a great surprise, as cloaked USCU forces had moved in while he made his personal speech towards Vivian. Using the absolute silence they acted in one synchronized motion, grabbing each of Baptista's five limbs and almost instantly placing hand cuffs on his arm and legs.
[color="LightBlue"]"There's a knife in that guy's throat! "[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"Everyone watch it, this now a crime scene, don't touch anything!"[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"Baptista, you are currently under arrest for 2 counts of assault against Vivian Androcles and Charlie Vicelin, 2 counts of attempted murder against police officers, 1 count of murder for the death of Fredrick Thames, 3 counts of international assassination attempts and the unlawful act of bringing a weapon into ZODEAC with the intent to do harm to others who have not had any intention of harming you. You will be brought before a judge and prosecuted for your actions, your weapons will be removed as soon as an opportunity avails us that does not directly harm your life and you will be subject to actions to change your behavior or restrict your future freedoms. At this time, we are treating you as an unauthorized actor from the NHRE committing terrorist activities, as we have no formal conclusion as to whether you acted alone or with the command from higher ups. However, we strongly recommend that you cooperate and act more respectfully of those surrounding you in the future for your own well being and to smooth any diplomatic processes along concerning your actions."[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"That and, despite how touching your love for your deceased wife is, your necrophilia is gross - you've given a whole new meaning to 'will become one flesh'. Seriously, she only vowed 'till death do you part' man. 'death do you part', not unify. Yuck."[/color]
USCU units also tended to the wounds of Charlie and Vivian, one of which placed a blanket over Charlies shoulders so that he could have comfort and warmth. One of the Vesari looked over at Vivian who was quite wet from the fright of the experience giving some sniffs to the air, [color="LightBlue"]"Yeah, I'm really going to need to shower after running around in the sewer, I hope that cut he gave me doesn't get infected."[/color] Vivian said ears drooped in embarrassment. The party members were escorted out through separate hatchways to the surface to a wet world whose storms had finally rolled over. RESRCH-98 helicopters were covering the region with spotlights and hovering overhead, while a massive frame rippled in the distance, it's weight crushing the street and one car below - to the anger of it's driver who had come outside to yell and scream at the military for destroying it.
After being subdued, Baptista would move under TEMMII's EDF field to a high level security facility and Vivian and Charlie would be moved to a safe-house elsewhere. Fredrick was taken, knife and all to be held for a future autopsy which was held off while government officials flew about trying to figure out what was going on.
News of the situation would soon break across the globe, as ZODEAC declared Baptista an international terrorist - but held off connecting him directly to the NHRE for the current time. After a thorough chewing out for bringing anyone into the sewers in the first place, Gildas was able to confirm from Vivian (and perhaps Charlie) that Fredrick had been killed by Baptista, by the blade that went through Vivian's ear on the way over. Vivian wasn't wearing any gloves, nor Charlie, which made Baptista the only suspect, in confirmation with their stories - well at least Gildas assumed, it should be fairly easy enough to determine.
Baptista, who was booked and taken to a high level research facility under the watch of elite special operations units and under the constant neutralization field of TEMMII, would soon discover that Dr. Blaze was quite resourceful with the latest ZODEAC technology. Dr. Blaze had produced two circuits that simulated the electrical currents and life energy necessary to keep Baptista alive and command and control the shoulder unit from the Nox Chaotica. The systems utilized Spiritual Resonance Crystals attuned to the needs of the other system, keeping them alive and in the latter unit, allow for control through an external driver. The Spiritual Resonance Crystals were among ZODEAC's latest creations, they could resonate energy when placed near life according to the nature of that life force. Thus, only a small portion of the Nox Chaotica was necessary to bias one of these crystal so that it could be used to continue running Baptista's heart, and another could be used to control the unit itself.
Extra measures had been taken to also disable any self-destruct mechanisms, via TEMMII's advanced computational circuits (CHRONOS & MIKA) which acquired and controlled every system converting it over for use by the nation of ZODEAC. When Baptista would come to fully, he would realize that he was in a cell, and his portion of Nox Chaotica was gone, replaced by a glowing crystal in his chest that provided the same feeling, but no response.
Ark was soon contacted as well, with ZODEAC asking that an Ark Investigation Unit perform an independent investigation of the crime scene to help determine the true nature of what had taken place. They would be given full access to the scene and the ability to perform the autopsy on Fredrick Thames - as well as the full cooperation of the ZODEAC police. Being a high level global case, each side would certainly blame the other and so an independent unit was necessary to prove the guilty of their crimes. With truth on his side, Vivian felt confident in giving his report according to his perspective, attempting to present the truth to the fullest of his ability.
[color="LightBlue"]"Vivian, this is the Lexya Valhalla, I'm detecting corrupted, chaos distortion fields and jamming frequencies. I've jammed all non-friendly outbound signals and re-established friendly signals via my ECM systems. What in the world is going on down there!"[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"Lexya, don't hit the corrupted, use the wide range EDF unit and neutralize the field now! But don't destroy the origin, only suppress it! It's Baptista!"[/color] Vivian yelled out.
TEMMII was designed as an anti-chaos unit, developed with world class field effect systems and detection software. Already notified in case her ECM system were necessary to override the local jamming mechanism, TEMMII would be aware of the presence of the field as soon as Baptista used it via the ECHO detection system.
Thus, it was little surprise when she was called upon to make use of the onboard EDF system to neutralize any distortion fields in the region. Essentially negating Baptista's final ace, she could even destroy the unit - which disconnected from it's primary Titan was merely human powered, and could do nothing against TEMMII's twin 90MWatt fusion power-plants. To be precise, if TEMMII had even so much as noticed any damaging field effects in the region of Baptista that could cause harm to the mental or physical stability of the units down there, the EDF could instantly be brought into play neutralizing the field before it could do any harm as soon as it happened via commands issued through the ENSI enhanced CHRONOS processor system. The field of course, would have no effect on Lexya, as such a small power source couldn't hope to influence the pilot thanks to the onboard warp bleedoff circuits. Even if the field wasn't a perfect 'match' to a chaos field as normally was used for causing people to go insane, the onboard MIKA computer with it's vast database and computational capabilities would easily be able to over-ride it's effects from such a low powered user.
Whether Baptista had tried to use his field on those outside of the region was unknown to all but Lexya, but if he felt they were no longer a threat, he would soon be in for a great surprise, as cloaked USCU forces had moved in while he made his personal speech towards Vivian. Using the absolute silence they acted in one synchronized motion, grabbing each of Baptista's five limbs and almost instantly placing hand cuffs on his arm and legs.
[color="LightBlue"]"There's a knife in that guy's throat! "[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"Everyone watch it, this now a crime scene, don't touch anything!"[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"Baptista, you are currently under arrest for 2 counts of assault against Vivian Androcles and Charlie Vicelin, 2 counts of attempted murder against police officers, 1 count of murder for the death of Fredrick Thames, 3 counts of international assassination attempts and the unlawful act of bringing a weapon into ZODEAC with the intent to do harm to others who have not had any intention of harming you. You will be brought before a judge and prosecuted for your actions, your weapons will be removed as soon as an opportunity avails us that does not directly harm your life and you will be subject to actions to change your behavior or restrict your future freedoms. At this time, we are treating you as an unauthorized actor from the NHRE committing terrorist activities, as we have no formal conclusion as to whether you acted alone or with the command from higher ups. However, we strongly recommend that you cooperate and act more respectfully of those surrounding you in the future for your own well being and to smooth any diplomatic processes along concerning your actions."[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"That and, despite how touching your love for your deceased wife is, your necrophilia is gross - you've given a whole new meaning to 'will become one flesh'. Seriously, she only vowed 'till death do you part' man. 'death do you part', not unify. Yuck."[/color]
USCU units also tended to the wounds of Charlie and Vivian, one of which placed a blanket over Charlies shoulders so that he could have comfort and warmth. One of the Vesari looked over at Vivian who was quite wet from the fright of the experience giving some sniffs to the air, [color="LightBlue"]"Yeah, I'm really going to need to shower after running around in the sewer, I hope that cut he gave me doesn't get infected."[/color] Vivian said ears drooped in embarrassment. The party members were escorted out through separate hatchways to the surface to a wet world whose storms had finally rolled over. RESRCH-98 helicopters were covering the region with spotlights and hovering overhead, while a massive frame rippled in the distance, it's weight crushing the street and one car below - to the anger of it's driver who had come outside to yell and scream at the military for destroying it.
After being subdued, Baptista would move under TEMMII's EDF field to a high level security facility and Vivian and Charlie would be moved to a safe-house elsewhere. Fredrick was taken, knife and all to be held for a future autopsy which was held off while government officials flew about trying to figure out what was going on.
News of the situation would soon break across the globe, as ZODEAC declared Baptista an international terrorist - but held off connecting him directly to the NHRE for the current time. After a thorough chewing out for bringing anyone into the sewers in the first place, Gildas was able to confirm from Vivian (and perhaps Charlie) that Fredrick had been killed by Baptista, by the blade that went through Vivian's ear on the way over. Vivian wasn't wearing any gloves, nor Charlie, which made Baptista the only suspect, in confirmation with their stories - well at least Gildas assumed, it should be fairly easy enough to determine.
Baptista, who was booked and taken to a high level research facility under the watch of elite special operations units and under the constant neutralization field of TEMMII, would soon discover that Dr. Blaze was quite resourceful with the latest ZODEAC technology. Dr. Blaze had produced two circuits that simulated the electrical currents and life energy necessary to keep Baptista alive and command and control the shoulder unit from the Nox Chaotica. The systems utilized Spiritual Resonance Crystals attuned to the needs of the other system, keeping them alive and in the latter unit, allow for control through an external driver. The Spiritual Resonance Crystals were among ZODEAC's latest creations, they could resonate energy when placed near life according to the nature of that life force. Thus, only a small portion of the Nox Chaotica was necessary to bias one of these crystal so that it could be used to continue running Baptista's heart, and another could be used to control the unit itself.
Extra measures had been taken to also disable any self-destruct mechanisms, via TEMMII's advanced computational circuits (CHRONOS & MIKA) which acquired and controlled every system converting it over for use by the nation of ZODEAC. When Baptista would come to fully, he would realize that he was in a cell, and his portion of Nox Chaotica was gone, replaced by a glowing crystal in his chest that provided the same feeling, but no response.
Ark was soon contacted as well, with ZODEAC asking that an Ark Investigation Unit perform an independent investigation of the crime scene to help determine the true nature of what had taken place. They would be given full access to the scene and the ability to perform the autopsy on Fredrick Thames - as well as the full cooperation of the ZODEAC police. Being a high level global case, each side would certainly blame the other and so an independent unit was necessary to prove the guilty of their crimes. With truth on his side, Vivian felt confident in giving his report according to his perspective, attempting to present the truth to the fullest of his ability.
-
Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
The Tragedy Part IX
The same night that all of this took place, Charles Vicelin would receive a call from Triumvir Gildas, and he did not look happy to see the leader of the NHRE.
[color="LightBlue"]"Charles, you have a great deal to explain for, and I very much hope that you have far less understanding of the situation then some would think. I have one injured Triumvirate, and your son, both assaulted and injured on our soil, two counts of attempted murder of ZODEAC USCU police officers sent out to aid an official sent from your nation, and one Fredrick Thames, foreign diplomat from the NHRE currently dead, all were attacked by this man here according to the survivors." [/color]
A picture of Baptista's mug-shot came up, along with smaller images outlining the wounded members of the party.
[color="LightBlue"]"He declared he was coming over here instantly on account of your son, who spat at our good will and ran off into the sewer systems, leading us on a massive goose chase and apparently giving this character - whom we believed was acting according to your wishes, to come here and carry out his plan."
[/color]
Further pictures were shown of nailed bible pieces in the wall, a strange knife of foreign origin in the throat of Fredrick, and two blades.
[color="LightBlue"]"Of course, something tells me you'll be most displeased to see that you've lost some kind of unknown technology on account of this man, and that it has now fallen into our hands as a result - after all, we can't have armed terrorists running about."[/color]
The picture now showed the independent Nox Chaotica element, currently in a hidden laboratory under jammers and TEMMII's suppression field while it was fully analyzed.
[color="LightBlue"]"I have had a miserable night on account of someone who is high up in your nation, and we have already requested an independent investigation from the Nation of Ark to help determine the full and undiluted truth. We've also placed the survivors under heightened security to insure that no harm comes to them on account of any other terrorists that may be related to this character. That stated, I wanted to make sure that you didn't feel in any way responsible for these actions? Not that Ark could prove such a thing as I am certain you would be more then thorough on your end."[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"I just thought I'd let you know. You might want to get some press out of your own, as we've already let the news have this one. Independent of how any of us spins this however, I am certain that Ark and it's keen investigators will be able to sort out the truth from the lies. Good night Charles."[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"Charles, you have a great deal to explain for, and I very much hope that you have far less understanding of the situation then some would think. I have one injured Triumvirate, and your son, both assaulted and injured on our soil, two counts of attempted murder of ZODEAC USCU police officers sent out to aid an official sent from your nation, and one Fredrick Thames, foreign diplomat from the NHRE currently dead, all were attacked by this man here according to the survivors." [/color]
A picture of Baptista's mug-shot came up, along with smaller images outlining the wounded members of the party.
[color="LightBlue"]"He declared he was coming over here instantly on account of your son, who spat at our good will and ran off into the sewer systems, leading us on a massive goose chase and apparently giving this character - whom we believed was acting according to your wishes, to come here and carry out his plan."
[/color]
Further pictures were shown of nailed bible pieces in the wall, a strange knife of foreign origin in the throat of Fredrick, and two blades.
[color="LightBlue"]"Of course, something tells me you'll be most displeased to see that you've lost some kind of unknown technology on account of this man, and that it has now fallen into our hands as a result - after all, we can't have armed terrorists running about."[/color]
The picture now showed the independent Nox Chaotica element, currently in a hidden laboratory under jammers and TEMMII's suppression field while it was fully analyzed.
[color="LightBlue"]"I have had a miserable night on account of someone who is high up in your nation, and we have already requested an independent investigation from the Nation of Ark to help determine the full and undiluted truth. We've also placed the survivors under heightened security to insure that no harm comes to them on account of any other terrorists that may be related to this character. That stated, I wanted to make sure that you didn't feel in any way responsible for these actions? Not that Ark could prove such a thing as I am certain you would be more then thorough on your end."[/color]
[color="LightBlue"]"I just thought I'd let you know. You might want to get some press out of your own, as we've already let the news have this one. Independent of how any of us spins this however, I am certain that Ark and it's keen investigators will be able to sort out the truth from the lies. Good night Charles."[/color]
*Click*
-
Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
((OOC))
IC: Tifer acted quickly; he knew time was important and they were running out of it. After all his diplomatic training, he drew a blank on how to handle something as critical as this. He decided to call Lady Acela in hopes she would have an answer.
-------------------------------
The next hour was perhaps the most chaotic time in the Nation of Ark's history. Every communication device Lady Acela owned was going off. She attempted to sort through all her messages, one from Tifer, one from the NHRE (finally), one from ZODEAC chief of police, one from her scout, and even one from someone who called himself Captain Scaramouche, of a ship named Whisperer in the Dark.
She scanned her scout's report quickly, then picked up Tifer's video call.
"Yes, Tifer, report."
"I hope this hour finds you well, my lady Acela." Tifer began, Acela glanced at all her still on hold communications and sighed, though not loud enough for Tifer to hear.
"We seemed to have run into a bit of a trouble, my lady, New Jerusalem is under attack by NHRE soldiers." Tifer continued, his voice a bit shaky as he brought her up to speed of what he had witnessed from the plane. Then he said "Please allow me to put your through to Triumvir Gildas and Vivian." the video changed to show both Triumvir Gildas and Vivian, looking very grim and Vivian looking fairly shaken in perhaps both anger and fear.
"Forgive me, gentlemen. I had hoped our next meeting would have been a peaceful and joyous one, but it appears that fate does not give me such favors.
I have been told by Tifer of the events you...no, we all are facing currently. How I wish I can come personally and offer my support, but time seems of the essence. My scout has just reported to me from the border of India and the Middle East that some sort of chaos seems to have run rampant there amongst the NHRE soldiers. It seems clear that this is no ordinary foe we are dealing with. It would be unwise to rush into their territory." Acela sat back in her chair, she studied the faces of Triumvir Gildas and Vivian and sadness fell across her face; her ears drooped, "If only there was a way to evacuate the people from the attack without causing an war...." Acela thought for a moment, then an idea came to her. But would it work? Could it work? If it didn't, it may spell doom for them all.
"The New Holy Roman Empire, a mighty military force, could not even stand a chance against this new enemy. This chaos. It has either wiped them out to a small portion or corrupted their troops.And it now seems to infect the Middle East as well. I do not wish to see that fate fall upon another nation that attacks them. I-" Lady Acela stop short and swallowed hard, "We must band together in this. I am awaiting word from the NHRE, which I have tried to contact already, hoping to get some response..." Acela trailed off as she glanced at the message waiting light from the NHRE. "But please, my dear and esteemed leaders of ZODEAC, how is your situation? Are your borders secure? Are your people safe? My first priority before any actions is to ensure your safety, then act accordingly."
IC: Tifer acted quickly; he knew time was important and they were running out of it. After all his diplomatic training, he drew a blank on how to handle something as critical as this. He decided to call Lady Acela in hopes she would have an answer.
-------------------------------
The next hour was perhaps the most chaotic time in the Nation of Ark's history. Every communication device Lady Acela owned was going off. She attempted to sort through all her messages, one from Tifer, one from the NHRE (finally), one from ZODEAC chief of police, one from her scout, and even one from someone who called himself Captain Scaramouche, of a ship named Whisperer in the Dark.
She scanned her scout's report quickly, then picked up Tifer's video call.
"Yes, Tifer, report."
"I hope this hour finds you well, my lady Acela." Tifer began, Acela glanced at all her still on hold communications and sighed, though not loud enough for Tifer to hear.
"We seemed to have run into a bit of a trouble, my lady, New Jerusalem is under attack by NHRE soldiers." Tifer continued, his voice a bit shaky as he brought her up to speed of what he had witnessed from the plane. Then he said "Please allow me to put your through to Triumvir Gildas and Vivian." the video changed to show both Triumvir Gildas and Vivian, looking very grim and Vivian looking fairly shaken in perhaps both anger and fear.
"Forgive me, gentlemen. I had hoped our next meeting would have been a peaceful and joyous one, but it appears that fate does not give me such favors.
I have been told by Tifer of the events you...no, we all are facing currently. How I wish I can come personally and offer my support, but time seems of the essence. My scout has just reported to me from the border of India and the Middle East that some sort of chaos seems to have run rampant there amongst the NHRE soldiers. It seems clear that this is no ordinary foe we are dealing with. It would be unwise to rush into their territory." Acela sat back in her chair, she studied the faces of Triumvir Gildas and Vivian and sadness fell across her face; her ears drooped, "If only there was a way to evacuate the people from the attack without causing an war...." Acela thought for a moment, then an idea came to her. But would it work? Could it work? If it didn't, it may spell doom for them all.
"The New Holy Roman Empire, a mighty military force, could not even stand a chance against this new enemy. This chaos. It has either wiped them out to a small portion or corrupted their troops.And it now seems to infect the Middle East as well. I do not wish to see that fate fall upon another nation that attacks them. I-" Lady Acela stop short and swallowed hard, "We must band together in this. I am awaiting word from the NHRE, which I have tried to contact already, hoping to get some response..." Acela trailed off as she glanced at the message waiting light from the NHRE. "But please, my dear and esteemed leaders of ZODEAC, how is your situation? Are your borders secure? Are your people safe? My first priority before any actions is to ensure your safety, then act accordingly."
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goldenspines - Posts: 4869
- Joined: Thu Jan 18, 2007 8:42 am
- Location: Up north somewhere.
(OOC: Please do read my message, located immediately above the massive wall of text.)
The cake used to be a lie like you, but then it took a portal to the deception core.
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Kaligraphic - Posts: 2002
- Joined: Wed Jul 21, 2004 12:00 pm
- Location: The catbox of DOOM!
Triumvir Gildas looked down considering the situation, he was well worn from all of this, [color="LightBlue"]"Indeed, so far, it seems as though their acts have remained outside of ZODEAC - even on border towns, the difference is night and day between us and the NHRE. We all know that Chaos exists in our lands, we act to protect our cities and our people accordingly, yet I can't imagine for the life of me what they have done up there that could possibly set them all off like this. Certainly under normal circumstances, we would agree to a global alliance dedicated to obliterating this threat - but we would have a different form of chaos at home for doing so."[/color] The rabbit-like creature ruffled his fur in frustration at the NHRE's recent decisions, [color="LightBlue"]"Their regime has become terribly unstable thanks to these recent catastrophe's... and Baptista... in a rashness that fits him well, performed an act of economic warfare on ZODEAC, liquidating our investments through an act of economic nationalization. No doubt, this will hurt them worse then it will us. If their nation doesn't fall into complete anarchy from the devastating nature of these attacks, this economic decision may well do the trick. Furthermore, we have received images from our AESOP surveillance satellites that suggest very strongly he is carrying out wholesale bombing runs on cities throughout the middle east and perhaps elsewhere in the chaos infested lands. That is, he's setting his own people on fire because he cannot achieve victory in a campaign."[/color]
The Oniru was quite frustrated by all of this and took a moment to catch his breath, [color="LightBlue"]"Then, so much as we would aid any act to save the people of these lands, so much as we would wish that we could stop these horrific attacks and form a joint alliance, I cannot agree to form an alliance with the NHRE on the same day that they broke our last treaty and while images of war-crimes on a horrific scale play out across our screens. There would be riots in the streets over here, and I couldn't aid such a barbaric government in regaining power. I can intervene and try to help evacuate the region and focus on the NHRE, hoping that I won't instigate chaos into an attack on ZODEAC, or I can hold back and hope that their people, seeing these atrocious acts on their TV screens and seeing their economy completely collapse, will realize Baptista's madness and rise up to form a more benevolent state of their own. But even if I were to agree to an alliance with the NHRE, Vivian and Galzorgan would never consent to such an action because of the grievous violations of our many species that has taken place in that land."[/color]
The plane was now stopped and connected to the hub at the air-port so that those inside could exit or enter.
[color="LightBlue"]"And if we attack Chaos, and allow whatever it is that is agitating them in the NHRE to continue, then what is to stop the effect from spreading and causing agitations of chaos in our own lands. I can assure you, the NHRE would never afford us the courtesy to fend off an attack on our nation by these creatures, they would rather laugh and watch us burn - even if they were the one's directly responsible for it."
[/color]
__________
Answer To Whispers In the Dark...
The Oniru was quite frustrated by all of this and took a moment to catch his breath, [color="LightBlue"]"Then, so much as we would aid any act to save the people of these lands, so much as we would wish that we could stop these horrific attacks and form a joint alliance, I cannot agree to form an alliance with the NHRE on the same day that they broke our last treaty and while images of war-crimes on a horrific scale play out across our screens. There would be riots in the streets over here, and I couldn't aid such a barbaric government in regaining power. I can intervene and try to help evacuate the region and focus on the NHRE, hoping that I won't instigate chaos into an attack on ZODEAC, or I can hold back and hope that their people, seeing these atrocious acts on their TV screens and seeing their economy completely collapse, will realize Baptista's madness and rise up to form a more benevolent state of their own. But even if I were to agree to an alliance with the NHRE, Vivian and Galzorgan would never consent to such an action because of the grievous violations of our many species that has taken place in that land."[/color]
The plane was now stopped and connected to the hub at the air-port so that those inside could exit or enter.
[color="LightBlue"]"And if we attack Chaos, and allow whatever it is that is agitating them in the NHRE to continue, then what is to stop the effect from spreading and causing agitations of chaos in our own lands. I can assure you, the NHRE would never afford us the courtesy to fend off an attack on our nation by these creatures, they would rather laugh and watch us burn - even if they were the one's directly responsible for it."
[/color]
__________
Answer To Whispers In the Dark...
- Code: Select all
To: Captain Scaramouche, Whisperer in the Dark
From: Triumvirate Vivian Androcles
Attachments: Napalm (video); evilBaptista (video)
Subject: Re: Chaos
Captain Scaramouche, I am honored to here your dedication to
the eradication of the force that has caused this disaster.
It is apparent that you seem to know a great deal concerning this
threat and I hope we can talk to discuss the matter at some later
point as a people.
However, I am afraid that I cannot consent to forming an alliance
with the NHRE. Attached are our reasons, even in this time of
tragedy. We have only recently been informed by Baptista himself
(second video) that he is liquidating all of our assets in the NHRE,
essentially destroying valuable resources we could have used to
defeat this threat, violating a Non-Aggression-Pact and making
an act of economic war against the nation of ZODEAC.
However, this is hardly the worst of it. In their insanity, we believe
that the NHRE is currently committing horrific war-crimes
against their own civilians (first video), and have taken to napalming their
own cities to the ground. That is, they are burning their own people
alive to satiate whatever twisted delusion that man has in his head.
We are currently discussing our options, and you should be aware that
we are considering directly attacking the military forces of the NHRE
in order intercept any acts of evil - but are treading carefully as we do
not wish to start another war that will only lead to more suffering. It is an
unfortunate and miserable diplomatic process in a time that needs action.
We cannot speak for the actions of other nations, but until a benevolent
government can be installed in Europe and Arabia, that will never again
commit such horrible war crimes, nor attempt to derail the global economy,
we cannot agree to help these villainous monsters fight the other monsters -
to me, both the NHRE government and Chaos are both evil.
Therefore, so much as I hate to be in disagreement with a fine emissary
from the Obsidian Empire as yourself, I cannot agree to aid the NHRE
at this time, but will consent in considering options to stop any future
chaos growth (Do you perhaps know what set them off in Europe to begin
with? We're getting odd reports that they're attacking the NHRE,
but are remaining confined to the border, as if something in the NHRE
was antagonizing them).
Sincerely and hope for better future relations,
Triumvirate Vivian
PS, if things get too hot there, you are always welcome in
ZODEAC, we will provide as many escorts as we possibly
can afford given the situation.
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Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
[align=center]
- Code: Select all
To - Captain Scaramouche, Whisperer in the Dark
From - Holy Roman Emperor Charles Vicelin
Attachments: Troop Chaos Conversion.
Subject - The Holy Order
We thank you for your support during these dark days, and we
come with good news.
While our efforts to fight on the ground was sabotaged largely
by orbital forces as well
as a betrayal from the east, we have managed to gather a great
deal of information in regards to our current enemy.
We have strong reason to believe that chaos is merely testing us
at this moment, and even greater reason to take pride
in the fact that our labs have produced a surplus of tech required
to deal with the seemingly unstoppable hordes of Chaos.
Our relations to the east and west has strengthen dramatically,
yet, the greedy south has launched a propaganda attack
against our nation which we stand apathetic too.
Our nation spent wast resources during recent times in directly
combating and researching chaos, and while our southern
neighbors roll over our negotiations, we have established ties
to cut all financial bonds with them, followed by the mighty west.
We retain sovereignty over the areas recently assaulted by chaos,
and any attempt to intervene there from the south will
result in a violation of the closed borders, this will be altered should
their tone change, and their pacifistic perception
towards chaos take a u-turn.
It is true we have adopted a scorched earth policy towards any areas
unable to evacuate in time.
Largely in due to that our armies in past conflicts have seen large numbers
of their own troops mutated into corrupted
of varying degrees of danger. *Attachment Troop Chaos Conversion*
Nearly all of them turn hostile against our troops and thus replenish the
ranks of the enemy.
More importantly, we are initializing a combined army doctrine.
Meaning that, all NHRE, Ark and Rosy regions will be defended by troops
of the NHRE, Ark and the Rosy empire for maximum
protection against the Chaos and the potential threat of the south,
which we stand confident against should matters
take a turn for the worst.
Along with this we are adopting a combined lab initiative with the
sole purpose of weakening Chaos influence in these sectors.
Recently, among the greatest threats to Chaos, Baptista himself,
was captured during a search for my son to the south,
whom I pray is alive.
I do not fear for him, as Baptista has survived terrors far greater
than what the south can introduce to him, yet,
his contribution against chaos is the most significant this world
has seen.
In regards to counter-chaos initiatives we are going to strike at
the ally of Chaos, who has done so much harm to our nation.
I believe strongly that these species, like many of the corrupted,
have a direct link with chaos.
We will stop at nothing to retrieve as much information we can
from them during the holy reconquest which we invite you to
join, should you want to test the repairs. We are confident that
their curse will indeed turn out to be a blessing.
Our armies stand ready for the next round, for a very different
war against chaos.
They can only stand on the defense against us, I cannot give
the same guarantee towards our southern neighbors.
Whom, if should be attacked, we would protect given clear
negotiations.
We respect their sovereignty, but we do not envy their fate
should chaos rise up in the region.
As for now, after numerous failed negotiations and a national
consciousness as far as untrustworthy neighbors go.
Should it take a turn either way, we shall let you know, but
until then, we adopt the perception that things are going
to get a lot more ugly before they get any better and remain
vigilant as always.
This is not a promise just from my nation, but the entire Alliance.
On a second note, our head research.
The Neko-Jin known as Punja is likely to pay you a visit shortly,
she can explain to you in detail how our contribution
against chaos has been significant, and how we might selectively
euthanize them in the future.
I apologize in advance as she has a bit of an attitude, but her
knowledge is only surpassed by Baptista in relation to chaos.
Semper Fidelis - Charles Vicelin
[/align]
Of two evils, choose neither - Charles Spurgeon.
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Jingo Jaden - Posts: 2175
- Joined: Mon May 15, 2006 2:26 pm
- Location: Norway
Pacifican Diplomacy
-A private message to the nation of Pacifica-
- Code: Select all
As I am sure you know, the lands to our north have come to
be a bastion for the creatures known as Chaos. These things bring out
the worst in people, and it has also come to our attention that the NHRE
has taken part in gross violations of human rights. Though they "claim" to be
the inheritors of the IOM, they are obviously far from the legends of a
benevolent and wise empire lead by the Puritan and Ishtare from fables of old.
We are still considering all options at the moment concerning what course to
take, and are discussing the matter with our friend, The Nation of Ark.
That stated, given our deep financial investment with the Nation of Pacifica,
and our interest in your culture and how it has come to acquire a place in the
undersea realm, we would like to meet with you at your convenience.
Together, we can discuss trade, the threat of Chaos and what our nations,
and all nations of the world can do to help combat this threat in the future.
Of course, we have speculated that the NHRE has somehow managed to
stumble on something to irritate the creatures, as their activity
seemed to arise in the region over night. We were curious if you
had any idea what they might be doing to attract such a response.
Sincerely,
Triumvir Gildas of ZODEAC
-
Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
OOC: Apologies Kali, I meant to respond to your message a while back, but life came up. Hopefully I can get most of the updates to catch up done tonight. Sorry for being so late. You all deserve cookies for being so patient.
IC: *on the other end of the video communication*
Lady Acela whiskers twitched madly, this was puzzling her to no end. She finally spoke again to Triumvir Gildas and Vivian, [color="Plum"]"I humbly request of you, give me ten minutes to see the message from The New Holy Roman Empire than is currently streaming to my office. I pray that will settle things."[/color] Lady Acela bowed her head, lowered her ears, and place her paws over her chest as the screen went black.
*On the plane*
Tifer blinked sadly at the black screen, but quickly spoke to the two leaders, Triumvir Gildas and Vivian, [color="Plum"]"Please, do not despair! My lady Acela is quite wise, and she is being cautious. Though I am quite sure if she saw this chaos with her own eyes, she would give her support to stop it."[/color] Tifer could not stop the images of the battle in the middle east flashing through his mind, [color="Plum"]"She would not let any peace loving nation go undefended from chaos."[/color] Tifer tried to be as reassuring as he could, but even he didn't know what his Lady Acela was going to do.
*In Ark*
After Acela took the time to answer most the messages sent to her, she turned to the one from Whisperer in the Dark and replied the following. (OOC: Sorry, I don't know how to do the code trick, so you get regular quotes from me)
IC: *on the other end of the video communication*
Lady Acela whiskers twitched madly, this was puzzling her to no end. She finally spoke again to Triumvir Gildas and Vivian, [color="Plum"]"I humbly request of you, give me ten minutes to see the message from The New Holy Roman Empire than is currently streaming to my office. I pray that will settle things."[/color] Lady Acela bowed her head, lowered her ears, and place her paws over her chest as the screen went black.
*On the plane*
Tifer blinked sadly at the black screen, but quickly spoke to the two leaders, Triumvir Gildas and Vivian, [color="Plum"]"Please, do not despair! My lady Acela is quite wise, and she is being cautious. Though I am quite sure if she saw this chaos with her own eyes, she would give her support to stop it."[/color] Tifer could not stop the images of the battle in the middle east flashing through his mind, [color="Plum"]"She would not let any peace loving nation go undefended from chaos."[/color] Tifer tried to be as reassuring as he could, but even he didn't know what his Lady Acela was going to do.
*In Ark*
After Acela took the time to answer most the messages sent to her, she turned to the one from Whisperer in the Dark and replied the following. (OOC: Sorry, I don't know how to do the code trick, so you get regular quotes from me)
Lady Acela of The Nation of Ark wrote:
Captain Scaramouche, Whisperer in the Dark,
Judging from the attached pictures and your message, you are surely a blessing in this dark time. I send you the warmest greetings, Captain. Before all else, I wish no more harm to come from Chaos in this world. It has done enough damage and it's time that it was stopped. You seem to have an extensive knowledge of how this foe works, while we of the Nation of Ark, have little. Though we are willing to learn and lend our support. Please contact us with further plans you may have and I would like to personally invite you to the Nation of Ark, if possible.
Best regards and a hope of a peaceful future,
Lady Acela, esteemed leader of the Nation of Ark
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goldenspines - Posts: 4869
- Joined: Thu Jan 18, 2007 8:42 am
- Location: Up north somewhere.
*A reply comes to ZODEAC*
*Also, in these dark days when chaos walked upon the Earth, captain Scaramouche, of the Whisperer in the Dark, took up the fiddle. He spent his nights playing the instrument and walking atop his ship.*
/*****************************************************************************************/
/* To: Triumvirate Vivian Androcles */
/* From: Captain Scaramouche, Whisperer in the Dark */
/* Subject: Re: Re: Chaos */
/* Body: I understand that you would be reluctant to ally again with the NHRE, but, */
/* considering the current situation, I must ask you to hold off on direct hostilities */
/* against them. While they are killing people in their border regions, if you and the */
/* NHRE destroy each other, all of the civilians in both your nations will be at risk */
/* from chaos. */
/* */
/* I would ask that you consider joining a combined response against chaos forces, */
/* as coordinated by Whisperer in the Dark. You would not be beholden to the NHRE, and */
/* Whisperer would ensure that no side takes advantage of the chaos situation to invade */
/* another. */
/* */
/* With conciliation, */
/* Scaramouche, */
/* Captain, Whisperer in the Dark */
/*****************************************************************************************/
*Also, in these dark days when chaos walked upon the Earth, captain Scaramouche, of the Whisperer in the Dark, took up the fiddle. He spent his nights playing the instrument and walking atop his ship.*
The cake used to be a lie like you, but then it took a portal to the deception core.
-
Kaligraphic - Posts: 2002
- Joined: Wed Jul 21, 2004 12:00 pm
- Location: The catbox of DOOM!
/*****************************************************************************************/
/*To: Captain Scaramouche */
/*From: Triumvir Vivian Androcles*/
/*Subject: Re: Chaos*/
/*Body: We would be interested in what you have discuss on the matter - and we will*/
/*not initiate hostilities against the NHRE at this time. We are currently scouting the*/
/*region and hope to have some confirmation on the threat posed by the chaos within.*/
/**/
/*Still, we have not taken any action against the NHRE and had even signed and acted in*/
/*good faith with our NAP that we had with them, while they have spat on the same.*/
/*So I must ask if you have contacted them about the foolishness of their own decisions?*/
/**/
/*Sincerely,*/
/*Triumvir Vivian Androcles*/
/*****************************************************************************************/
Elsewhere, Pascal got strange messages about his posts being too short and decided that playing a fiddle might be necessary also.
-
Dante - Posts: 1323
- Joined: Thu Mar 04, 2004 8:24 pm
- Location: Where-ever it is, it sure is hot!
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